Hollow Knight MultiWorld vs Randovania

Hollow Knight MultiWorld is a free, open-source set of add-ons for Hollow Knight Randomizer 4.0. MultiWorld distributes randomized items across linked game files for cooperative play, while the separate ItemSync add-on shares randomized pickups among players in a room. Players can use local randomizer mods, keep their own randomizer settings, choose nicknames shown when their items are collected elsewhere, and coordinate through a room code. The server assigns a random identifier to each randomization, allowing multiple sessions to run at once. Players can save, reload, reconnect, and rejoin to recover MultiWorld data after a crash before their first save. Mods are available through Scarab, which installs dependencies. Documentation lists a public server and explains local hosting with MultiWorldServer.exe; WAN access requires forwarding port 38281. The project supports Windows, offers advanced customization, seed sharing, and multiworld support, and is licensed under LGPL-2.1. Detailed spoiler logs are planned.

Randovania is a free, open-source randomizer for supported games on Windows, macOS, and Linux. It rearranges weapons, keys, and other items among locations, and can also change area connections, travel requirements, starting equipment, and starting location. Its randomization aims to keep games completable without glitches or exploits. Multiworld can distribute items among several games and players, including a session played alone, and the project lists integrations for the Prime games, Cave Story, Metroid Dread, AM2R, and Samus Returns. Multiworld requires a Discord account. There are no hard limits on players or worlds, but sessions above 30 have seen little testing. When disconnected from its server, Randovania retains collected-item information and sends it after reconnection, including after a restart. It only supports unmodified game files; Prime and Prime 2 require uncompressed GameCube ISO files. The Metroid Prime page specifies a GameCube ISO and either a modded Wii or Dolphin Emulator. Larger Multiworld sessions can be discussed with the community on Discord.