The Complete Guide to Finding All Mask Shards in Hollow Knight 2025 Edition

In the shadowy depths of Hallownest, every adventurer knows that survival hinges on a precious resource: health masks. As of 2025, Hollow Knight remains a beloved classic, and with the game's challenging platforming and fierce boss battles, increasing your health bar from the initial 5 masks to a maximum of 9 is not just helpful—it's essential. Mask Shards, scattered across the vast map, are the key to this enhancement. For every four shards collected, an Ancient Mask forms, adding one permanent health point. But where do you find all 16 shards? Fear not, for this guide will lead you through each discovery, weaving tales of hidden paths, epic fights, and clever strategies. 🕵️‍♂️

The Merchant's Treasure: Sly's Shards

Many players start their journey in Dirtmouth, the game's safe haven. After rescuing Sly from the Forgotten Crossroads, he sets up shop here. Right away, he offers two Mask Shards: one for 150 Geo and another for a steep 500 Geo. But wait, is that all? Not quite! By finding the Shopkeeper's Key in Crystal Peak—located left of the Bench near the Crystal Guardian's initial spot—and returning it to Sly, you unlock two more shards. These cost 800 Geo and a whopping 1,500 Geo. Inflation in Hallownest? It's real! As you hand over the Geo, imagine Sly's tiny grin—it's a small price for extra life.

Boss Battles and Hidden Rewards

Venturing west in the Forgotten Crossroads, you'll stumble upon the Brooding Mawlek, a hidden boss lurking in the shadows. Defeating him isn't too tough—just dodge his claw raises and strike during openings. Your reward? A Mask Shard, making this one of the easier finds. But why stop there? In Crystal Peak, after acquiring the Monarch Wings, head to the Bench area to face the Crystal Guardian. This mini-boss is a breeze with spells; just avoid nail-bounces. Rest up, then ascend to battle his enraged form. He's faster and deals double damage, but stick to your strategy, and victory yields another shard.

People also ask: What's the quickest way to boost health early on? Well, helping Grubfather is a heartwarming option. As you explore, rescue Grubs trapped in jars—there are 46 in total. Save just five, and return to Grubfather in the Forgotten Crossroads' west side. He'll gift you a Mask Shard, a simple act of kindness in a harsh world.

Exploration and Platforming Challenges

In the Forgotten Crossroads, head below the False Knight's arena. Use the Mantis Claw to scale up early in the maze-like room filled with Goams. Find a hidden passage, navigate past enemies, and claim a shard at the end. But how do you handle watery hazards? In Royal Waterways, with the Mothwing Cloak, dash to hidden platforms near Cornifer's spot. Drop left from a Geo deposit, dash swiftly, and avoid the water—it's tricky but rewarding.

Queen's Station offers a simpler path. With Mantis Claw, exit the station right, climb spiky corridors, and grab a shard. But is saving Bretta as easy? She's crying loudly in Fungal Wastes' lower right, below Mantis Village. Survive the platforming, interact, and she moves to Dirtmouth. Visit her there for your shard—a tale of rescue and reunion.

Deeper Dives and Tricky Quests

Deepnest calls for the Monarch Wings. From Mantis Village's entrance, go top left, descend through dark paths, and land on a shard. But what about essence collection? Gather 1,500 Essence, visit the Seer in Resting Grounds, and receive a shard—effortless yet satisfying.

Stone Sanctuary demands defeating No Eyes and owning the Lumafly Lantern. Head right from Greenpath's Bench, enter the sanctuary, dodge No Eyes' floating attacks, and claim the shard in the top right. But the hardest? The Delicate Flower quest. Start with Grey Mourner in Resting Grounds' east—use Desolate Dive on a tomb, break walls, and find her. Deliver a flower to Queen's Gardens without fast travel or damage. It's grueling, but the Mask Shard reward feels legendary.

The Hive's Secret

In The Hive, accessed via Ancient Basin's tram, navigate to a large room. Defeat most Hive Guardians but lure one to the bottom-left wall. It breaks, revealing a passage with a shard—ingenious, isn't it?

FAQ: Common Questions Answered

1. How many Mask Shards are there in total?

There are 16 Mask Shards scattered across Hallownest, allowing you to increase health from 5 to 9 masks.

1. What is the hardest Mask Shard to obtain?

The Delicate Flower quest is notoriously tough, requiring no damage or fast travel during delivery.

1. Can I buy Mask Shards easily?

Yes, Sly sells four shards, but prices soar from 150 to 1,500 Geo—plan your Geo farming!

1. Do I need specific abilities for all shards?

Absolutely! Mantis Claw, Mothwing Cloak, and Monarch Wings are essential for many locations.

1. Is it worth collecting all shards?

Definitely—extra health makes late-game bosses and areas far more manageable in 2025's active community.