Conquering Grimm: Optimal Charm Builds for Hollow Knight's Toughest Fights
Grimm, the enigmatic leader of the Grimm Troupe, presents two formidable challenges in Hollow Knight: Troupe Master Grimm and Nightmare King Grimm. These battles demand precision, 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 an introduction to Grimm's moveset. This faster-paced fight rewards calculated aggression.
Nail Build:
- Unbreakable/Fragile Strength (damage boost)
- Quick Slash (increased attack speed)
- Longnail (increased nail range)
- Grimmchild (mandatory)
This build maximizes nail damage between Grimm's attacks. Quick Slash allows for efficient hit-and-run tactics. Longnail compensates for the lack of Mark of Pride due to Grimmchild. Aim for a Coiled or Pure Nail for optimal damage.
Spell Build:
- Shaman Stone (spell damage boost)
- Grubsong (soul regeneration)
- Spell Twister (faster spell casting)
- Unbreakable/Fragile Heart (increased health)
- Grimmchild (mandatory)
This build focuses on powerful spells like Descending Dark and Abyss Shriek. Shaman Stone and Spell Twister amplify spell damage and casting speed. Grubsong ensures consistent soul supply. Unbreakable/Fragile Heart provides extra health for survivability.
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 more challenging, dealing double damage and possessing enhanced speed and attacks, including a devastating flame pillar attack.
Optimal Hybrid Build:
- Unbreakable/Fragile Strength (damage boost)
- Shaman Stone (spell damage boost)
- Mark of Pride (increased nail range)
- Grimmchild (mandatory)
This hybrid build utilizes both nail attacks and powerful spells (Abyss Shriek, Descending Dark). Shaman Stone and Strength are essential for damage. Mark of Pride maximizes nail effectiveness in brief openings.
Defensive Spell/Nail Art Build:
- Grubsong (soul regeneration)
- Sharp Shadow (damage and dash through attacks)
- Shaman Stone (spell damage boost)
- Spell Twister (faster spell casting)
- Nailmaster's Glory (enhanced nail art damage)
- Grimmchild (mandatory)
This defensive approach prioritizes spell damage and nail arts, utilizing Sharp Shadow for evasive maneuvers and damage. Grubsong, Shaman Stone, and Spell Twister provide consistent soul and spell power. Nailmaster's Glory significantly boosts nail art damage.
These builds provide a strong foundation for conquering Grimm's challenging encounters. Remember to adapt your strategy based on your playstyle and comfort level.