Grimm, a character beloved in the *Hollow Knight* universe and the metroidvania genre at large, captivates players with his enigmatic presence and stylish demeanor. As the leader of the Grimm Troupe, he plays a pivotal role in the Knight's journey to restore Hallownest, offering a compelling side quest that concludes the troupe's storyline.
Facing off against Grimm is no small feat; players must engage in battle with Troupe Master Grimm before unlocking the challenge of the more formidable Nightmare King Grimm. These encounters are among the game's toughest, demanding precise movement, swift reflexes, and unwavering determination. Equipping the right charms is crucial to mastering these battles, and all charm setups require the two-notch Grimmchild charm to access these fights.
Best Charm Builds For Troupe Master Grimm
Troupe Master Grimm introduces players to his signature moves and attack patterns in a battle that feels more like a dance than a brawl. It's fast-paced and requires players to be both elegant and strategic in seizing their moments to strike. Here are the top charm builds to help you conquer this challenging fight, which also unlocks the final Charm Notch essential for tackling Nightmare King Grimm.
Nail Build
- Unbreakable/Fragile Strength
- Quick Slash
- Longnail
- Grimmchild (Mandatory)
This charm configuration maximizes your Nail's damage output, allowing you to land significant hits between Grimm's attacks. Given the slower pace compared to Nightmare King Grimm, a Nail build is highly effective. Quick Slash enables more frequent attacks, while Unbreakable or Fragile Strength boosts your Nail's damage. Aim for at least the Coiled Nail or Pure Nail to efficiently reduce Grimm's health. Longnail, serving as a substitute for Mark of Pride due to the two-notch Grimmchild requirement, slightly extends your Nail's reach, aiding in hitting Grimm during the conclusion of his attacks like the Diving Dash and Uppercut.
Spell Build
- Shaman Stone
- Grubsong
- Spell Twister
- Unbreakable/Fragile Heart
- Grimmchild (Mandatory)
For those who favor spell-based combat or struggle with Nail precision, this build is your key to quickly overcoming Grimm. Ensure you have the upgraded spells Descending Dark, Abyss Shriek, and Shade Soul for optimal effectiveness. Shaman Stone amplifies your spell damage significantly, making it a staple in any spell-focused setup. Spell Twister allows for more frequent spell casts, which can be replenished with Nail hits. Grubsong helps maintain your Soul gauge by converting damage into Soul, and Unbreakable/Fragile Heart provides additional masks, allowing more focus on spell usage.
Best Charm Builds For Nightmare King Grimm
Nightmare King Grimm is a step up in difficulty, dealing double damage and moving at a blistering pace. A single mistake can end the fight prematurely. His arsenal includes flaming trails on his attacks and a new flame pillar move, which can be exploited for massive damage with Abyss Shriek. Here are the most effective charm builds to help you conquer this formidable opponent.
Best Build
- Unbreakable/Fragile Strength
- Shaman Stone
- Mark of Pride
- Grimmchild (Mandatory)
A pure Nail build isn't viable against Nightmare King Grimm. Instead, a hybrid Nail/Spell build offers the best chance of success. Shaman Stone is essential for dealing significant spell damage, while Unbreakable/Fragile Strength and Mark of Pride enhance your Nail's effectiveness during moments when using spells is risky or not feasible.
Alternate Build
- Grubsong
- Sharp Shadow
- Shaman Stone
- Spell Twister
- Nailmaster's Glory
- Grimmchild (Mandatory)
This more defensive setup focuses on spells and the often overlooked Nail Arts, with tools to evade Nightmare King Grimm's lethal attacks. Shaman Stone and Spell Twister are crucial for maximizing spell damage, while Grubsong helps maintain your Soul supply. Sharp Shadow, paired with the Shade Cloak, allows you to dash through Grimm's attacks and deal damage, and Nailmaster's Glory enhances the potency of Nail Arts, enabling you to chip away at his health alongside strategic spell use.
