Hollow Knight: Best Builds For Grimm

Conquering Grimm: Optimal Charm Builds for Hollow Knight's Troupe Master and Nightmare King

Grimm, a captivating figure in Hollow Knight, presents two formidable challenges: Troupe Master Grimm and Nightmare King Grimm. These encounters demand precise timing, quick reflexes, and strategic charm selection. All builds 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 fight emphasizes calculated aggression over brute force.

1. Nail Build:

• Unbreakable/Fragile Strength (mandatory for increased Nail damage)
• Quick Slash (for rapid attacks between Grimm's openings)
• Longnail (extends Nail range, a viable alternative to Mark of Pride given Grimmchild's slot usage)
• Grimmchild (mandatory)

This build maximizes Nail damage, exploiting openings during the relatively slower-paced fight. Aim for a Coiled or Pure Nail for optimal efficiency.

2. Spell Build:

• Shaman Stone (mandatory for amplified spell damage)
• Grubsong (maintains Soul reserves for consistent spellcasting)
• Spell Twister (increases spell casting speed)
• Unbreakable/Fragile Heart (provides extra masks for spellcasting)
• Grimmchild (mandatory)

This build prioritizes spell damage, utilizing Descending Dark, Abyss Shriek, and Shade Soul effectively. 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: Advanced Charm Strategies

Nightmare King Grimm is significantly more challenging, dealing double damage and possessing enhanced speed and a new flame pillar attack.

1. Hybrid Nail/Spell Build (Recommended):

• Unbreakable/Fragile Strength (boosts Nail damage)
• Shaman Stone (amplifies spell damage)
• Mark of Pride (increases Nail range for crucial hits)
• Grimmchild (mandatory)

This build balances Nail attacks with powerful spells like Abyss Shriek and Descending Dark, leveraging Shaman Stone for maximum damage output.

2. Defensive Spell/Nail Art Build:

• Grubsong (sustains Soul)
• Sharp Shadow (allows for safe dashes through attacks)
• Shaman Stone (boosts spell damage)
• Spell Twister (increases spell casting speed)
• Nailmaster's Glory (enhances Nail Arts damage)
• Grimmchild (mandatory)

This defensive strategy utilizes spells and Nail Arts, relying on Sharp Shadow for evasive maneuvers and Nailmaster's Glory for increased Nail Art damage. Grubsong ensures a consistent supply of Soul. This build is particularly effective if you have the Shade Cloak.

These builds provide a solid foundation for tackling both Grimm encounters. Remember to adapt your strategy based on your playstyle and comfort level. Good luck, and may your nail be sharp!