Hollow Knight: Top Grimm Builds

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, first as Troupe Master Grimm and then the formidable Nightmare King Grimm, requires skill, strategy, and the right charm build. These fights are notoriously difficult, demanding precise movement and quick reactions.

All charm builds for both Grimm fights require the Grimmchild charm (occupying two charm notches).

Best Charm Builds for Troupe Master Grimm

Troupe Master Grimm introduces you to Grimm's moveset. This fast-paced battle demands precise timing. The following builds are effective for overcoming this challenge.

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

Nail Build

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

Maximize nail damage with this build. Quick Slash allows for significant damage between Grimm's attacks. Unbreakable/Fragile Strength is essential for damage increase. A Coiled Nail or Pure Nail is recommended for consistent damage output. Longnail compensates for the lack of Mark of Pride due to Grimmchild's two-notch requirement, offering increased range for attacks.

Spell Build

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

This build prioritizes spell damage, ideal for players comfortable with spellcasting. Shaman Stone significantly boosts spell damage, while Spell Twister maximizes spell output. Grubsong maintains soul reserves, and Unbreakable/Fragile Heart provides extra mask health.

Best Charm Builds for Nightmare King Grimm

Nightmare King Grimm is significantly more challenging. He deals double damage and moves much faster, demanding a different approach.

Best Build

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

A hybrid Nail/Spell build is most effective. Shaman Stone amplifies spell damage, while Unbreakable/Fragile Strength and Mark of Pride boost nail damage for opportunities between spells.

Alternate Build

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

This defensive build focuses on spells and Nail Arts. Shaman Stone and Spell Twister enhance spell damage, while Grubsong maintains soul. Sharp Shadow allows for dodging attacks and dealing damage, and Nailmaster's Glory boosts Nail Arts effectiveness.