Grimm, the enigmatic leader of the Grimm Troupe, is a memorable character in *Hollow Knight*. His presence adds depth to the game's lore and offers a compelling side quest. Confronting Grimm, however, means facing two incredibly challenging boss battles: Troupe Master Grimm and Nightmare King Grimm. These fights demand precise timing, skillful dodging, and strategic charm selection for success. All builds below require the Grimmchild charm (occupying two charm notches).

Best Charm Builds for Troupe Master Grimm

Troupe Master Grimm provides your first encounter with Grimm's unique moveset. This fast-paced battle requires precise timing and careful opportunity selection. The builds below are effective strategies. 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)

This build maximizes nail damage between Grimm's attacks. Quick Slash allows for many hits in this slower fight than Nightmare King Grimm. Unbreakable/Fragile Strength is essential for increased damage; aim for a Coiled Nail or Pure Nail for optimal effectiveness. Longnail offers increased range, a useful alternative to Mark of Pride given Grimmchild's two-notch requirement.

Spell Build

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

A spell-focused build for players who prefer ranged combat. Shaman Stone significantly boosts spell damage, and Spell Twister maximizes spell output. Grubsong maintains your soul supply, while Unbreakable/Fragile Heart provides additional health for spell-heavy gameplay.

Best Charm Builds for Nightmare King Grimm

Nightmare King Grimm is significantly more challenging. He inflicts double damage, moves faster, and adds a flame pillar attack. A hybrid approach is more effective than a pure nail build.

Best Build

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

This hybrid build utilizes Abyss Shriek and Descending Dark for burst damage. Shaman Stone is crucial for spell damage, while Unbreakable/Fragile Strength and Mark of Pride enhance nail attacks during opportune moments.

Alternate Build

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

A more defensive build focusing on spells and nail arts. Shaman Stone and Spell Twister maximize spell damage, while Grubsong provides soul. Sharp Shadow allows for evasive maneuvers and damage, and Nailmaster's Glory enhances nail arts for consistent damage.