Image: Mister Morris Games
Haiku, the Robot is a 2D metroidvania from solo developer Mister Morris Games, released on 27 April 2022. You play a small robot exploring a mechanical world overrun by a virus. It is openly, unmistakably modelled on Hollow Knight — and while it does not reach that standard, it is a competent and charming take on the formula.
At a glance
| Developer | Mister Morris Games (solo) |
| Released | 27 April 2022 |
| Platforms | PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, Nintendo Switch |
| Length | ~10–12 hours |
What is it?
A hand-drawn 2D metroidvania. You explore an interconnected underground world, unlock movement abilities that open previously blocked routes, fight bosses, and gather chips that act as equippable perks.
The Hollow Knight influence is not subtle: the map system, the bench-style save points, the currency-drop-on-death mechanic and the melancholy tone are all clearly borrowed. The developer has been open about it.
What it does differently is scale and tone. The world is smaller, the difficulty gentler, and the robots you meet are warmer and often funny.
Is it any good?
Yes, for what it is. Movement feels responsive, the chip system allows meaningful build variety, and the art is genuinely appealing — particularly the environment design in the later biomes.
Its limitations are the limitations of a solo project. Boss patterns are simpler than the games it emulates, some backtracking is tedious before you unlock fast travel, and the story is thin.
It is roughly ten hours, which is the right length for what it has to offer.
Is it worth buying?
Yes, at a discount, if you have finished Hollow Knight and want more of that shape. It scratches the itch without pretending to compete.
No, if this would be your first metroidvania. Hollow Knight, Ori and the Blind Forest, or Metroid Dread are all better introductions and not much more expensive.
Where can you buy it?
- PC — Steam
- PlayStation, Xbox and Nintendo — via their respective stores
There is no paid DLC — post-launch content updates were free. A note on cracked builds: illegal, a known malware vector, and frozen at the cracked version, missing the free updates that added content and quality-of-life fixes. This is also an inexpensive indie game that discounts frequently. IGGG Guides does not link to pirated software.
FAQ
How long is Haiku, the Robot?
Around 10–12 hours, longer for full completion.
Is it as hard as Hollow Knight?
No. It is noticeably more forgiving, which many players consider a positive.
Was it made by one person?
Yes, largely — developed by Mister Morris Games as a solo project.
Is there fast travel?
Yes, unlocked partway through. Backtracking before that point is the main pacing complaint.
The verdict
Haiku, the Robot is an honest, well-made tribute to Hollow Knight from a solo developer. It is smaller and simpler than its inspiration and never pretends otherwise, and it is charming enough to justify the ten hours.
Best for: metroidvania fans who have already played the greats.
Skip if: you have not played Hollow Knight — start there.
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Last updated: 6 September 2026