Unlocking Godhood: Finding YOUR Best Charms in Hollow Knight (Because “Best” is a Lie)
You’ve entered the bug-filled world of Hallownest. Now you wonder, “What is the best charm in Hollow Knight?”. Let’s be clear. No single charm is universally the best. If someone claims otherwise, they might be selling you nonsense… or Grubfather’s stew.
Hollow Knight’s charm system is subjective. The “best” charm relies on your playstyle, your current situation, and if you like melee or magic. It’s like choosing your favorite flavor of void – it’s all about you!
Charm Notches: Your Slots for Bug Bling
Before we discuss charms, let’s explain Charm Notches. These slots are crucial for equipping charms. Think of them as inventory slots for your bug gear. You can’t equip every charm you find.
- You start with a modest 3 Charm Notches.
- No worries, completionist knight! You can find 8 more notches hidden in Hallownest.
- That totals a grand 11 Notches. Choose wisely to maximize your strength.
Every charm demands certain notches. A simple charm uses one notch, while stronger ones may need two or three. Balancing your charm setup is vital for your Knight’s potential, like packing for void diving in a mothwing cloak.
The Charm Pantheon: Top Choices for Your Notches
Now, let’s explore powerful charms that often appear on “best of” lists. These heavy hitters can turn battles in your favor.
- Unbreakable Strength: Want to make your nail a void-infused hammer? Use Unbreakable Strength. It boosts nail damage significantly. Enemies crumble quickly!
- Quick Slash: Like overwhelming force? Quick Slash speeds up nail attacks. Unleash rapid blows. Picture the Mantis Lords, but with you striking first.
- Shaman Stone: Are you a spellslinger? Shaman Stone amplifies your magic. It enlarges spells and boosts damage. Those spirits become tiny nukes.
- Spell Twister: Struggling with soul management? Spell Twister lowers spell costs. You cast magical barrages often. It’s like a discount for void magic.
- Soul Eater: Speaking of soul, it transforms you into a soul-gathering machine. More hits mean more soul and spells. It’s a cycle of void-powered goodness.
- Grubsong: Taking hits is part of Hallownest (unless you dodge well). Grubsong turns damage into opportunities. It generates soul when hit, ensuring reserves for spells or quick heals.
- Steady Body: Do you get knocked back during combat? Steady Body anchors you. It removes nail knockback. You can keep pressure on foes.
- Wayward Compass: Lost in Hallownest? Wayward Compass reveals the map. It shows where you are and what you haven’t explored yet.
- Mark of Pride: Reach is essential in many battles. Mark of Pride extends nail range, letting you hit from afar. Poke enemies from a safe distance!
Charm Spotlight: Focus on Specific Bug Bling
Now, let’s closely examine charms that deserve attention, whether for their unique uses or debated effectiveness.
- Glowing Womb: This charm sacrifices SOUL to spawn Hatchlings that attack foes. Sounds cool, right? In practice, they deal only 9 damage and drain your SOUL. It’s like throwing pebbles at tanks.
- Soul Eater: A reminder about Soul Eater. It benefits all spell users. In tense fights needing soul, it helps generate more reliably.
- Dashmaster: Early exploration is slow. Dashmaster accelerates your movement. It allows more frequent dashing. It’s fun to zip around! Crystal Heart is faster outdoors, but Dashmaster excels in tight spaces.
- Stalwart Shell: Boss fights can be tough. Stalwart Shell extends invulnerability after hits. This extra time can save you against relentless bosses.
- Hiveblood: Imagine regenerating health slowly. That’s Hiveblood. Useful if you dodge well but struggle to heal safely. Just don’t rely on it too much.
- Kingsoul: Kingsoul passively generates SOUL over time, but it’s slow. Use it as a stepping stone charm until you get Void Heart, its powerful evolved form.
- Thorns of Agony: Thorns of Agony deals damage back when hit. Sounds cool, but it consumes invincibility frames. You lose immunity after hits, leaving you vulnerable. It’s not typically recommended for serious builds.
Tailoring Your Charms: It’s About You, Knight
The ideal charm setup is personal. Consider these factors for your selection:
- Your Playstyle: Are you a melee master or a spellcaster? Nail builds lean towards Unbreakable Strength and Quick Slash. Spellcasters favor Shaman Stone and Spell Twister. Pick what matches your style.
- Combat Scenario: Different charms excel in various situations. Soul Eater helps in long fights. Stalwart Shell shines in boss battles. Be flexible! Change charms between encounters.
- Boss Fights: Bosses test your skills. Analyze their attacks and adapt your charm setup accordingly to exploit weaknesses.
Stop seeking the mythical “best” charm and start exploring! Mix and match charms to find combinations that empower your Knight. The most potent charm enhances your journey through Hallownest.
