Hollow Knight: Best Builds For Grimm

Grimm, the enigmatic leader of the Grimm Troupe, is a formidable foe in Hollow Knight, challenging players in two intense boss fights: Troupe Master Grimm and Nightmare King Grimm. These battles demand precise timing, quick reflexes, and strategic charm selection. All builds below require the Grimmchild charm (occupying two charm notches).

Best Charm Builds for Troupe Master Grimm

Troupe Master Grimm provides a crucial introduction to Grimm's moveset. This fast-paced fight requires calculated aggression. The following builds offer effective strategies:

Nail Build

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

This build maximizes nail damage. Quick Slash allows for multiple hits between Grimm's attacks. Unbreakable/Fragile Strength is essential for damage increase. A Coiled Nail or Pure Nail is recommended for efficient damage output. Longnail provides extended range, compensating for the lack of Mark of Pride due to Grimmchild's two-notch requirement.

Spell Build

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

This build focuses on spell damage, ideal for players who prefer ranged combat. Shaman Stone significantly amplifies spell damage, while Spell Twister allows for quicker spell casting. Grubsong maintains Soul reserves, and Unbreakable/Fragile Heart provides extra health. Descending Dark, Abyss Shriek, and Shade Soul upgrades are highly recommended.

Best Charm Builds for Nightmare King Grimm

Nightmare King Grimm presents a significantly more challenging encounter. He inflicts double damage and moves much faster, demanding a refined approach. His new flame pillar attack offers brief openings for significant damage.

Best Build

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

This hybrid nail/spell build capitalizes on Abyss Shriek and Descending Dark. Shaman Stone boosts spell damage, while Unbreakable/Fragile Strength and Mark of Pride enhance nail attacks during opportunities between spell casts.

Alternate Build

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

This defensive build utilizes spells and nail arts. Shaman Stone and Spell Twister maximize spell damage, while Grubsong replenishes Soul. Sharp Shadow allows for evasive maneuvers and damage, and Nailmaster's Glory enhances nail arts' effectiveness.