Conquering Grimm: Optimal Charm Builds for Hollow Knight's Toughest Fights
Grimm, the enigmatic leader of the Grimm Troupe, presents two of Hollow Knight's most challenging encounters: Troupe Master Grimm and Nightmare King Grimm. These battles demand precision, reflexes, and the right charm setup. All builds below require Grimmchild (2 charm notches).
Troupe Master Grimm: Charm Strategies
Troupe Master Grimm introduces Grimm's moveset. It's a fast-paced dance requiring careful timing. These builds are sufficient for victory:
1. Nail Build:
- Unbreakable/Fragile Strength
- Quick Slash
- Longnail
- Grimmchild (Mandatory)
This build maximizes Nail damage. Quick Slash allows for multiple hits between Grimm's attacks. Unbreakable/Fragile Strength is essential for damage increase. Longnail compensates for the lack of Mark of Pride (due to Grimmchild).
2. Spell Build:
- Shaman Stone
- Grubsong
- Spell Twister
- Unbreakable/Fragile Heart
- Grimmchild (Mandatory)
Ideal for spell-focused players. Shaman Stone amplifies spell damage, while Spell Twister allows for rapid spell casting. Grubsong maintains Soul reserves, and Unbreakable/Fragile Heart provides extra health for spell usage.
Defeating Troupe Master Grimm unlocks the final charm notch, crucial for Nightmare King Grimm builds.
Nightmare King Grimm: Advanced Charm Strategies
Nightmare King Grimm is significantly harder. He inflicts double damage and moves faster, adding flaming trails to his attacks and a new flame pillar attack. This attack presents an opportunity for burst damage with Abyss Shriek.
1. Hybrid Nail/Spell Build:
- Unbreakable/Fragile Strength
- Shaman Stone
- Mark of Pride
- Grimmchild (Mandatory)
This build balances Nail and spell damage. Shaman Stone is crucial for consistent spell damage, while Unbreakable/Fragile Strength and Mark of Pride maximize Nail damage in brief openings.
2. Defensive Spell/Nail Art Build:
- Grubsong
- Sharp Shadow
- Shaman Stone
- Spell Twister
- Nailmaster's Glory
- Grimmchild (Mandatory)
This defensive strategy utilizes spells and Nail Arts. Shaman Stone and Spell Twister boost spell damage, while Grubsong maintains Soul. Sharp Shadow allows for dodging attacks and dealing damage, and Nailmaster's Glory enhances Nail Arts effectiveness.
These builds provide a strong foundation for tackling these challenging encounters. Remember to adapt your strategy based on your playstyle and mastery of Grimm's attacks.