Conquering Grimm: Optimal Charm Builds for Hollow Knight's Toughest Fights

Grimm, a captivating antagonist in Hollow Knight, presents two formidable challenges: Troupe Master Grimm and Nightmare King Grimm. These encounters demand precision, reflexes, and strategic charm selection. All builds below require Grimmchild (2 charm notches).

Troupe Master Grimm: Charm Builds

Troupe Master Grimm introduces Grimm's moveset. This fast-paced fight emphasizes calculated attacks over brute force.

1. Nail Build:

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

This build maximizes Nail damage. Quick Slash allows for numerous hits between Grimm's attacks. Unbreakable/Fragile Strength is essential for increased Nail damage. Longnail provides extended range, a valuable alternative to Mark of Pride given Grimmchild's notch cost.

2. Spell Build:

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

This build prioritizes spell damage. Shaman Stone significantly boosts spell power, and Spell Twister facilitates rapid spell casting. Grubsong maintains Soul reserves, crucial for consistent spell usage. Unbreakable/Fragile Heart provides extra mask health, supporting sustained spellcasting.

Defeating Troupe Master Grimm unlocks the final charm notch, crucial for Nightmare King Grimm builds.

Nightmare King Grimm: Charm Builds

Nightmare King Grimm is significantly harder, dealing double damage and possessing 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 combines Nail and spell damage. Shaman Stone amplifies spell damage (especially Abyss Shriek and Descending Dark), while Unbreakable/Fragile Strength and Mark of Pride boost Nail damage for opportune strikes.

2. Defensive Spell/Nail Art Build:

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

This defensive build emphasizes spellcasting and Nail Arts. Shaman Stone and Spell Twister maximize spell damage, while Grubsong ensures Soul availability. Sharp Shadow (with Shade Cloak) allows for evasive maneuvers and damage infliction, and Nailmaster's Glory significantly enhances Nail Arts' effectiveness.

These builds provide a solid foundation for tackling Hollow Knight's most challenging Grimm encounters. Remember to adapt your strategy based on your playstyle and comfort level.