Hollow Knight: Best Builds For Grimm

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 precise timing, skillful dodging, and strategic charm selection. All builds require Grimmchild (2 charm notches).

Troupe Master Grimm: Charm Strategies

Troupe Master Grimm serves as a crucial introduction to Grimm's moveset. While fast-paced, it's more of a tactical dance than a brawl. These builds provide a solid foundation for victory. Defeating Troupe Master Grimm unlocks the final charm notch, essential for Nightmare King Grimm.

Nail Build: Maximize Melee Damage

• Unbreakable/Fragile Strength
• Quick Slash
• Longnail
• Grimmchild (Mandatory)

This build focuses on maximizing nail damage between Grimm's attacks. Quick Slash enhances attack speed, while Longnail (or Mark of Pride, if space allows) increases range, crucial for hitting Grimm during attack animations. Unbreakable/Fragile Strength is essential for raw damage output. Aim for a Coiled or Pure Nail for optimal effectiveness.

Spell Build: Unleash Magical Mayhem

• Shaman Stone
• Grubsong
• Spell Twister
• Unbreakable/Fragile Heart
• Grimmchild (Mandatory)

For spell-focused players, this build delivers devastating power. Shaman Stone significantly amplifies spell damage, while Spell Twister allows for rapid spell casting. Grubsong maintains soul reserves, and Unbreakable/Fragile Heart provides extra health for survivability. Utilize Descending Dark, Abyss Shriek, and Shade Soul for maximum impact.

Nightmare King Grimm: Advanced Charm Configurations

Nightmare King Grimm is a vastly more challenging encounter. He inflicts double damage and moves significantly faster, demanding a more refined approach. His new flame pillar attack presents both a threat and an opportunity for burst damage.

Optimal Build: Hybrid Nail/Spell Synergy

• Unbreakable/Fragile Strength
• Shaman Stone
• Mark of Pride
• Grimmchild (Mandatory)

A pure nail build is insufficient against Nightmare King Grimm. This hybrid build leverages the power of Abyss Shriek and Descending Dark, enhanced by Shaman Stone. Unbreakable/Fragile Strength and Mark of Pride provide additional damage during opportune moments.

Alternate Build: Defensive Spell & Nail Art Focus

• Grubsong
• Sharp Shadow
• Shaman Stone
• Spell Twister
• Nailmaster's Glory
• Grimmchild (Mandatory)

This defensive build prioritizes spell usage and nail arts, incorporating tools to evade attacks. Shaman Stone and Spell Twister remain core components. Grubsong ensures consistent soul supply. Sharp Shadow (requiring Shade Cloak) allows for safe dashes through attacks, while Nailmaster's Glory enhances nail art damage.

These builds offer effective strategies for tackling both Troupe Master Grimm and the formidable Nightmare King Grimm. Remember to adapt your approach based on your playstyle and mastery of Hollow Knight's mechanics.