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Hollow Knight: Best Builds For Grimm

Author:Kristen Update:Mar 17,2025

Grimm, the enigmatic leader of the Grimm Troupe, is a fan-favorite character in *Hollow Knight*, offering a compelling side quest and challenging boss fights. Confronting Grimm, whether as Troupe Master Grimm or the formidable Nightmare King Grimm, requires skill, precise timing, and the right charm build. These fights are notoriously difficult, demanding quick reactions and strategic charm choices to survive.

All charm builds for both Grimm fights necessitate equipping Grimmchild (occupying two charm notches) to unlock the boss encounters.

Best Charm Builds for Troupe Master Grimm

Troupe Master Grimm

Troupe Master Grimm serves as an introduction to Grimm's moveset. This fast-paced battle demands skillful maneuvering and precise timing. The following builds provide a solid foundation for victory:

Nail Build

Nail Build for Troupe Master Grimm

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

This build maximizes nail damage between Grimm's attacks. Quick Slash allows for numerous hits during openings. Unbreakable/Fragile Strength is essential for increased damage output. Longnail offers extended range, a valuable asset against Grimm's attacks.

Spell Build

Spell Build for Troupe Master Grimm

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

For spell-focused players, this build utilizes Shaman Stone to boost spell damage, combined with Spell Twister for rapid spell casting. Grubsong replenishes soul, and Unbreakable/Fragile Heart provides extra health for survivability.

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

Best Charm Builds for Nightmare King Grimm

Nightmare King Grimm

Nightmare King Grimm presents a significantly greater challenge. He inflicts double damage and moves much faster, demanding a more strategic approach. His new flame pillar attack provides opportunities for counter-attacks.

Best Build

Best Build for Nightmare King Grimm

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

This hybrid Nail/Spell build uses Shaman Stone and powerful spells like Abyss Shriek and Descending Dark. Unbreakable/Fragile Strength and Mark of Pride maximize damage output during openings.

Alternate Build

Alternate Build for Nightmare King Grimm

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

This defensive build focuses on spell usage and Nail Arts. Shaman Stone and Spell Twister amplify damage, while Grubsong maintains soul reserves. Sharp Shadow allows for evasive maneuvers, and Nailmaster's Glory enhances Nail Art effectiveness.