Locations, Tracking Mechanics, and Combat Tips for Hornet’s Explosive Hunt
In Hollow Knight: Silksong, not everything is visible from the start. Some enemies, items, and events only appear after triggering specific quests—adding a layer of mystery and progression that fans of the original game will instantly recognize. One of the more explosive examples is the
Volatile Flintbeetles quest, which introduces three fiery mini-bosses hidden throughout the Marrow. These beetles won’t show up until you’ve accepted the quest, and even then, you’ll need to track them down using Hornet’s unique scent mechanic. If you’re wondering where to find Flintbeetles, how to follow their trail, and what to expect in battle, this guide has you covered.
🧭 How to Start the Volatile Flintbeetles Quest
Before you can hunt Flintbeetles, you’ll need to unlock the quest itself. Here’s how:
- Progress through the game until you reach Bone Bottom, a central hub area.
- Locate the Wishwall (also called the Wish Board), typically found on the upper path past the merchant.
- Interact with the quest marked by an exploding beetle icon—this is the Volatile Flintbeetles Hunt Wish.
Once accepted, three Flintbeetles will spawn in different parts of the Marrow. You’ll also begin seeing
golden dung piles scattered throughout the biome—these are your clues.
🪨 Tracking Flintbeetles with Hornet’s Scent Mechanic
Hornet has a unique ability to detect the scent trail left behind by Flintbeetles. Here’s how it works:
- Interact with golden dung piles found in the Marrow.
- Hornet will “smell” the trail, triggering a shimmering path that leads toward the Flintbeetle’s location.
- The trail fades over time, so move quickly. If it disappears, return to the last dung pile and interact again.
This mechanic adds a scavenger-hunt feel to the quest, encouragingexploration and rewarding players who pay attention to environmentaldetails.
📍 Flintbeetle Locations in the Marrow
Each Flintbeetle is tucked away in a distinct part of the Marrow. Here’s where to find them:
1. West Marrow – Near Bone Bottom
- After exiting Bone Bottom, head west through the shortcut that opens the first gate into the Marrow.
- The Flintbeetle is perched atop a rock—strike it to initiate the fight.
2. Upper Marrow – Highest Point
- Fast travel into the Marrow and climb upward.
- The Flintbeetle is located above an abandoned building, near a platforming section.
- If you’ve rescued a Flea in this area, you’re close—look for the beetle clinging to the rocks.
3. East Marrow – Near Hunter’s March
- Head to the rightmost section of the Marrow, above the final Bench.
- The Flintbeetle is located just before the mini-boss that leads into Hunter’s March.
- Look for red flower bunches and a platform mechanism near the prison—these landmarks confirm you’re in the right spot.
🔥 Combat Tips for Defeating Flintbeetles
Flintbeetles aren’t ordinary enemies—they behave like mini-bosses and can easily overwhelm unprepared players. Here’s what to expect:
- Attack Pattern: They spin rapidly, tossing fireballs and leaving a trail of flame behind them.
- Aggression: Flintbeetles are relentless and will try to corner Hornet on their platform.
- Mobility: They only follow you while you’re on their platform, so use nearby platforms to retreat and heal.
🧠 Strategy Tips
- Watch for attack windows: Dodge their fireballs and wait for brief pauses to strike.
- Use mobility tools: Dash and aerial tools help you reposition quickly.
- Don’t be afraid to retreat: Jump to another platform to heal or regroup. Flintbeetles won’t chase you off their turf.
- Equip fire-resistant Crests: If available, use Crests that reduce fire damage or boost Silk generation for healing.
🎁 Quest Rewards
After defeating all three Flintbeetles, return to the Wishwall and turn in the three Flintgems you collected. Your reward:
- Memory Locket – A valuable item that unlocks an additional notch on your Crest, allowing for more tool customization.
This reward is especially useful for players experimenting with different combat builds, as it expands your loadout flexibility.
The Volatile Flintbeetles quest is a perfect example of Silksong’s layered design—combining exploration, environmental storytelling, andintense combat into a single side mission. Whether you’re chasing everyWish or just looking for a challenge, tracking and defeating these fiery beetles is a satisfying milestone in Hornet’s journey.
Platform(s): Microsoft Windows PC, macOS, Linux, Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Switch 2, PlayStation 4 PS4, PlayStation 5 PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S
Developer(s): Team Cherry
Publisher(s): Team Cherry
Release date: 4 September 2025
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