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. Successfully navigating these battles requires skillful maneuvering, rapid reflexes, and strategic charm selection. All builds below require Grimmchild (occupying two charm notches).
Troupe Master Grimm: Charm Build Strategies
Troupe Master Grimm serves as a crucial introduction to Grimm's moveset. This fast-paced fight demands precise timing and calculated aggression.
1. Nail Build:
- Unbreakable/Fragile Strength
- Quick Slash
- Longnail
- Grimmchild (Mandatory)
This build maximizes nail damage. Quick Slash enables rapid attacks between Grimm's strikes. Longnail compensates for the slot cost of Grimmchild, offering increased range. Unbreakable/Fragile Strength is essential for boosting nail damage. Aim for a Coiled Nail or Pure Nail for optimal effectiveness.
2. Spell Build:
- Shaman Stone
- Grubsong
- Spell Twister
- Unbreakable/Fragile Heart
- Grimmchild (Mandatory)
This build prioritizes spell damage. Shaman Stone significantly amplifies spell power, while Spell Twister allows for rapid spell casting. Grubsong maintains soul reserves, and Unbreakable/Fragile Heart provides extra health for survivability. Descending Dark and Abyss Shriek are highly recommended spells.
Defeating Troupe Master Grimm unlocks the final charm notch, crucial for Nightmare King Grimm builds.
Nightmare King Grimm: Charm Build Strategies
Nightmare King Grimm presents a significantly more challenging fight. He inflicts double damage and possesses enhanced speed and a new flame pillar attack.
1. Hybrid Nail/Spell Build:
- Unbreakable/Fragile Strength
- Shaman Stone
- Mark of Pride
- Grimmchild (Mandatory)
This build balances nail and spell attacks. Shaman Stone boosts spell damage, while Unbreakable/Fragile Strength and Mark of Pride maximize nail damage during opportune moments. Abyss Shriek and Descending Dark remain potent choices.
2. Defensive Spell/Nail Art Build:
- Grubsong
- Sharp Shadow
- Shaman Stone
- Spell Twister
- Nailmaster's Glory
- Grimmchild (Mandatory)
This build focuses on defense and spell/nail art synergy. Shaman Stone and Spell Twister amplify spell damage, while Grubsong ensures consistent soul supply. Sharp Shadow facilitates dodging attacks and dealing damage with Shade Cloak, and Nailmaster's Glory significantly enhances nail art effectiveness.
These builds provide a strong foundation for tackling both Grimm encounters. Remember that skillful play and adaptation are key to success.
