Conquering Grimm: Optimal Charm Builds for Hollow Knight's Toughest Fights
Grimm, a captivating antagonist in Hollow Knight, presents two formidable challenges: Troupe Master Grimm and Nightmare King Grimm. These encounters demand precision, reflexes, and strategic charm selection. All builds below require Grimmchild (occupying two charm notches).
Troupe Master Grimm: Charm Build Strategies
This fight, while challenging, allows for more deliberate attacks.
Nail Build:
- Unbreakable/Fragile Strength (mandatory for increased Nail damage)
- Quick Slash (for increased attack speed and damage)
- Longnail (extends Nail range, a viable alternative to Mark of Pride given Grimmchild)
- Grimmchild (Mandatory)
This build maximizes Nail damage output between Grimm's attacks. Quick Slash is crucial for landing hits effectively. Longnail compensates for the slot cost of Grimmchild.
Spell Build:
- Shaman Stone (mandatory for amplified spell damage)
- Grubsong (sustains Soul supply)
- Spell Twister (increases spell casting speed)
- Unbreakable/Fragile Heart (boosts health for spell-focused combat)
- Grimmchild (Mandatory)
Ideal for spell-focused players, this build leverages powerful spells like Descending Dark and Abyss Shriek. Shaman Stone and Spell Twister are key for consistent damage. Grubsong mitigates the risk of running out of Soul.
Defeating Troupe Master Grimm unlocks the final charm notch, essential for Nightmare King Grimm builds.
Nightmare King Grimm: Charm Build Strategies
Nightmare King Grimm is significantly faster and deals double damage. Adaptability is key.
Optimal Hybrid Build:
- Unbreakable/Fragile Strength
- Shaman Stone
- Mark of Pride
- Grimmchild (Mandatory)
A balanced approach combining Nail and Spell attacks. Shaman Stone boosts spell damage, while Strength and Mark of Pride maximize Nail damage in opportune moments. Abyss Shriek and Descending Dark remain highly effective.
Defensive Spell/Nail Art Build:
- Grubsong (consistent Soul supply)
- Sharp Shadow (allows for quick dashes through attacks)
- Shaman Stone (amplified spell damage)
- Spell Twister (faster spell casting)
- Nailmaster's Glory (boosts Nail Art damage)
- Grimmchild (Mandatory)
This defensive strategy utilizes spells and Nail Arts, leveraging Sharp Shadow for evasive maneuvers and Nailmaster's Glory for increased Nail Art effectiveness against Grimm's attacks. Grubsong ensures consistent Soul availability.
