Hollow Knight Cheat Sheet - Charms, Characters, Map

All the Charms and how to unlock them

Wayward Compass

description: Whispers its location to the bearer whenever a map is open, allowing wanderers to pinpoint their current location.

notches required: one

how to unlock: ou can buy the Charm from Iselda at the map shop in Dirtmouth for 220 Geo. The shop becomes accessible after the player meets Cornifer for the first time. Cornifer sells incomplete maps to the Knight, which they can then fill in as they explore Hallownest. Additionally, Iselda offers other useful items to help players navigate the world, including uncovering hidden passages and interconnected routes.

Gathering Swarm

description: A swarm will follow the bearer and gather up any loose Geo. Useful for those who can't bear to leave anything behind, no matter how insignificant.

notches required: One

how to unlock: You can buy the Charm from Sly’s shop in Dirtmouth for 300 Geo. To equip it, you’ll need one Charm Notch. Sly will return to Dirtmouth after you rescue him in the abandoned village. You can find this village below the Gruz Mother’s location and directly to the left of Salubra in the Forgotten Crossroads.

Stalwart Shell

description: Builds resilience. When recovering from damage, the bearer will remain invulnerable for longer. Makes it easier to escape from dangerous situations.

notches required: Two

how to unlock: You can buy the Stalwart Shell from Sly’s shop in Dirtmouth for 200 Geo after he returns to the town.

Soul Catcher

description: Used by shamans to draw more SOUL from the world around them. Increases the amount of SOUL gained when striking an enemy with the nail.

notches required: Two

how to unlock: After defeating the False Knight, players can access the Ancestral Mound. In this area, they’ll need to jump across platforms and defeat enemies. At the end of the journey, they’ll face an Elder Baldur, and to the left of the arena, they’ll find the Soul Catcher charm.

Shaman Stone

description: Said to contain the knowledge of past generations of shaman. Increases the power of spells, dealing more damage to foes.

notches required: Three

how to unlock: The Shaman Stone can be purchased from Salubra in the Forgotten Crossroads for 220 Geo. To reach her shop, players can either use the Mantis Claw or Mothwing Cloak, or travel across the Blue Lake from the Resting Grounds12. This powerful charm enhances the size and hitbox of all spells, making it a valuable addition to any spellcasting build in Hollow Knight!

Soul Eater

description: Forgotten shaman artifact, used to draw SOUL from still-living creatures. Greatly increases the amount of SOUL gained when striking an enemy with the nail.

notches required: Four

how to unlock: In the Resting Grounds, players should seek out a grave directly below the Seer’s location and the Stag Station. Stepping on the surface of this grave will cause it to rumble. To access the secret passage, use the Desolate Dive or Descending Dark spell on the grave. Once underground, travel to the right until you discover a sarcophagus containing the Soul Eater Charm.

Dashmaster

description: Bears the likeness of an eccentric bug known only as 'The Dashmaster'. The bearer will be able to dash more often as well as dash downwards. Perfect for those who want to move around as quickly as possible.

notches required: Two

how to unlock: In the Fungal Wastes, head to the left of the bench located outside the Mantis Village. There, you’ll discover a statue at the base. The Charm can be found right there. Additionally, you’ll encounter Bretta in the same area.

Spiritmaster

description: Bears the likeness of a strange bug known only as 'The Sprintmaster'. Increases the running speed of the bearer, allowing them to avoid danger or overtake rivals.

notches required: One

how to unlock: After finding the Shopkeeper’s Key in Crystal Peak, players can return it to Sly. As a result, Sly’s shop stock will increase. Additionally, players can purchase the Sprintmaster charm from Sly for 400 Geo after giving him the key.

Grubsong

description: Contains the gratitude of freed grubs. Gain SOUL when taking damage.

notches required: One

how to unlock: The Grubfather, found in the Forgotten Crossroads, rewards players with the Grubsong Charm after they save 10 Grubs. Once all the hidden Grubs across Hallownest are freed, players can obtain the Grubberfly’s Elegy charm by returning to the Grubfather in the Forgotten Crossroads.

Grubberfly's Elegy

description: Contains the gratitude of grubs who will move to the next stage of their lives. Imbues weapons with a holy strength. When the bearer is at full health, they will fire beams of white-hot energy from their nail.

notches required: Three

how to unlock: This can be unlocked in the same way Grubsong is unlocked.

Fragile Heart

description: Increases the health of the bearer, allowing them to take more damage. This charm is fragile, and will break if its bearer is killed.

notches required: Two

how to unlock: Leg Eater is a hermit merchant found in a camp within the Fungal Wastes, near the entrance to the Forgotten Crossroads. When players first meet him, he offers to show them “something nice” for 86 Geo. After being paid, Leg Eater opens his Charm shop, where he sells Fragile Charms that break upon death. These unique charms can be purchased from Leg Eater for 350 Geo. Additionally, if players have the Defender’s Crest Charm equipped, he will give them a 20% discount on his wares and repair services.

Unbreakable Heart

description: Increases the health of the bearer, allowing them to take more damage. This charm is unbreakable.

notches required: Two

how to unlock: This is unlocked the same way as Fragile Heart.

Fragile Greed

description: Causes the bearer to find more Geo when defeating enemies. This charm is fragile, and will break if its bearer is killed.

notches required: Two

how to unlock: Leg Eater, a hermit merchant found in the Fungal Wastes, sells the Fragile Greed charm to players for 250 Geo (or 200 Geo if they’re wearing the Defender’s Crest). However, if players want to upgrade the charm to its unbreakable variant, they can give it to Divine. She charges a hefty 9,000 Geo for her services, but in return, she provides the Unbreakable Greed charm, which won’t break upon death.

Unbreakable Greed

description: Causes the bearer to find more Geo when defeating enemies. This charm is unbreakable.

notches required: Two

how to unlock: This is unlocked the same way Fragile Greed is unlocked.

Fragile Strength

description: Strengthens the bearer, increasing the damage they deal to enemies with their nail. This charm is fragile, and will break if its bearer is killed.

notches required: Three

how to unlock: This is unlocked the same way as Unbreakable Strength.

Unbreakable Strength

description: Strengthens the bearer, increasing the damage they deal to enemies with their nail. This charm is unbreakable.

notches required: Three

how to unlock: Fragile Strength is a charm in the game Hollow Knight. To obtain it, you can purchase it from Leg Eater in the Fungal Wastes for 600 Geo (or 480 Geo if you’re wearing the Defender’s Crest). Once you have Fragile Strength, give it to Divine, who will then upgrade it to the more powerful Unbreakable Strength charm for a cost of 15,000 Geo. In summary, start with Fragile Strength, and after consuming it, Divine will transform it into the formidable Unbreakable Strength charm.

Spell Twister

description: Reflecting the desires of the Soul Sanctum for mastery over SOUL, it improves the bearer's ability to cast spells. Reduces the SOUL cost of casting spells.

notches required: Two

how to unlock: Spell Twister is a charm that enhances your spellcasting abilities. To find it, head to the Soul Sanctum, which is located in the upper part of the map. Ascend to the very top of the Soul Sanctum. Before reaching the arena where you can fight the Soul Master, keep an eye out for a secret room. Inside this room, you’ll encounter enemies called Mistakes and Follies. Defeat these enemies to generate Soul and cast spells. Look to the far right of the room, where you’ll find Spell Twister attached to a machine. In summary, climb to the top of the Soul Sanctum, explore the secret room, defeat enemies, and claim the Spell Twister charm.

Steady Body

description: Keeps its bearer from recoiling backwards when they strike an enemy with a nail. Allows one to stay steady and keep attacking.

notches required: One

how to unlock: You can purchase this charm for 120 Geo from Salubra in the Forgotten Crossroads.

Heavy Blow

description: Formed from the nails of fallen warriors. Increases the force of the bearer's nail, causing enemies to recoil further when hit.

notches required: Two

how to unlock: After finding the Shopkeeper’s Key in Crystal Peak, players can return it to Sly. As a result, Sly’s shop stock will increase. Additionally, players can purchase the Heavy Blow charm from Sly’s shop in Dirtmouth for 350 Geo.

Quick Slash

description: Born from imperfect, discarded nails that have fused together. The nails still long to be wielded. Allows the bearer to slash much more rapidly with their nail.

notches required: Three

how to unlock: Quick Slash can be located in the far east of Kingdom’s Edge, beyond Oro’s hut. In the adjacent room, players will find a training dummy, along with a breakable wall that they can destroy. Afterward, players should proceed downward and to the left, where they’ll discover a tunnel containing the Charm, positioned in front of a giant corpse.

Longnail

description: Increases the range of the bearer's nail, allowing them to strike foes from further away.

notches required: Two

how to unlock: For 300 Geo, this charm can be purchased from Salubra.

Mark of Pride

description: Freely given by the Mantis Tribe to those they respect. Greatly increases the range of the bearer's nail, allowing them to strike foes from further away.

notches required: Three

how to unlock: After defeating the Mantis Lords in the Fungal Wastes, players can obtain the Charm. Once the battle is completed, a room becomes accessible in the Mantis Village, containing a chest. Players can open the chest to collect their well-deserved reward.

Fury of the Fallen

description: Embodies the fury and heroism that comes upon those who are about to die. When close to death, the bearer's strength will increase.

notches required: Two

how to unlock: The Fury of the Fallen charm in Hollow Knight is a powerful accessory that significantly boosts your Nail damage when you’re down to just 1 Mask of health. To find it, head to the King’s Pass area at the beginning of the game. In the room with spikes on the ground, look for a hidden passage in the bottom right corner. Use your Mothwing Cloak ability or perform a pogo jump to access it. Inside, you’ll discover a chest containing the coveted charm. Remember to unleash your inner fury when you’re on the brink of defeat!

Thorns of Agony

description: Senses the pain of its bearer and lashes out at the world around them. When taking damage, sprout thorny vines that damage nearby foes.

notches required: One

how to unlock: To obtain the Charm, players must first acquire the Mothwing Cloak. This essential item allows them to navigate through a maze in Greenpath. However, the maze is teeming with Charged Lumaflies, and players must time their movements precisely to avoid taking damage.

Baldur Shell

description: Protects its bearer with a hard shell while focusing SOUL. The shell is not indestructible and will shatter if it absorbs too much damage.

notches required: Two

how to unlock: Although the Baldur Shell can be found in the Howling Cliffs, it’s actually easier to reach the correct room from Greenpath. Players should head to a room filled with small platforms and spikes. From there, make your way to the top-right corner where you’ll find a chest. But be warned: hitting the chest will only yield one Geo. To progress further, jump into the chest to reveal a hidden room containing two Elder Baldurs. Defeating these enemies will open up a path to the right, leading you to the coveted Baldur Shell.

Flukenest

description: Living charm born in the gut of a Flukemarm. Transforms the Vengeful Spirit spell into a horde of volatile baby flukes.

notches required: Three

how to unlock: After defeating the hidden Flukemarm boss in the Royal Waterways, players are rewarded with the Flukenest.

Defender's Crest

description: Unique charm bestowed by the King of Hallownest to his most loyal knight. Scratched and dirty, but still cared for. Causes the bearer to emit a heroic odour.

notches required: One

how to unlock: You will unlock the defenders crest by defeating the boss Dung Defender who can be found in the Royal Waterways.

Glowing Womb

description: Drains the SOUL of its bearer and uses it to birth hatchlings. The hatchlings have no desire to eat or live, and will sacrifice themselves to protect their parent.

notches required: Two

how to unlock: In the Forgotten Crossroads, players can discover a hidden entrance to the right of the False Knight’s arena and immediately left of the Husk Guard. Once this entrance is opened, players should ascend until they reach an area with a spiky tunnel. Here, they can utilize the Crystal Heart to propel the Knight safely through the tunnel. However, before reaching the Charm, players must defeat Aspid Hunters and Mothers guarding the way. The Charm awaits them, positioned in front of a large corpse.

Quick Focus

description: A charm containing a crystal lens. Increases the speed of focusing SOUL, allowing the bearer to heal damage faster.

notches required: Three

how to unlock: Below Cornifer’s position in the Crystal Peak, players will discover a hidden cavern entirely covered in crystals. Within this cavern lies the Quick Focus Charm. To access it, look for a breakable wall near a Husk Miner who is busy mining. Utilize the Crystal Heart ability to reach the Deep Focus Charm within this secret area.

Deep Focus

description: Naturally formed within a crystal over a long period. Draws in SOUL from the surrounding air. The bearer will focus SOUL at a slower rate, but the healing effect will double.

notches required: Four

how to unlock: This can be unlocked in the same was as Quick Focus.

Lifeblood Heart

description: Contains a living core that seeps precious lifeblood. When resting, the bearer will gain a coating of lifeblood that protects from a modest amount of damage.

notches required: Two

how to unlock: Salubra, a merchant in Hollow Knight, sells the Lifeblood Heart charm in her shop for 250 Geo. When equipped, the Lifeblood Heart adds 2 extra Lifeblood Masks to your health pool. To find the Lifeblood Core Charm, venture into the Abyss. Look for a sealed door on the left wall of the main chamber. You can open this door when you have 15 or more Lifeblood Masks. Inside, you’ll discover the charm and an Arcane Egg. Remember to grab the Arcane Egg first, as the door won’t open again after collecting the charm.

Lifeblood Core

description: Contains a living core that bleeds precious lifeblood. When resting, the bearer will gain a coating of lifeblood that protects from a large amount of damage.

notches required: Three

how to unlock: This can be unlocked in the same way Lifeblook Heart is unlocked.

Joni's Blessing

description: Blessed by Joni, the kindly heretic. Transfigures vital fluids into blue lifeblood. The bearer will have a healthier shell and can take more damage, but they will not be able to heal themselves by focusing SOUL.

notches required: Four

how to unlock: Exploring the Howling Cliffs, players can discover Joni’s Blessing at the resting place of Blue Child Joni. Moving to the right from Cornifer’s location, they’ll encounter a darkened area with spikes and enemies. It’s recommended to have purchased the Lumafly Lantern from Sly to navigate this section more easily. As players continue, they’ll come across numerous blue butterflies, which indicate a source of Lifeblood. Following these butterflies will lead them to Joni’s grave, where the Charm will be glowing.

Hiveblood

description: Golden nugget of the Hive's precious hardened nectar. Heals the bearer's wounds over time, allowing them to regain health without focusing SOUL.

notches required: Four

how to unlock: Hiveblood is unlocked by defeating the Hive Knight in the Hive area.

Spore Shroom

description: Composed of living fungal matter. Scatters spores when exposed to SOUL. When focusing SOUL, emit a spore cloud that slowly damages enemies

notches required: One

how to unlock: Near the entrance to the Queen’s Gardens, players will encounter a room filled with acid pools. To navigate this area, they must bounce on purple mushrooms. If players descend to the lower level using the Mantis Claw ability, they’ll discover the Spore Shroom Charm tucked away in a small nook on the far right side of the room.

Sharp Shadow

description: Contains a forbidden spell that transforms shadows into deadly weapons. When using Shadow Dash, the bearer's body will sharpen and damage enemies.

notches required: Two

how to unlock: To access the Sharp Shadow Charm, players must first obtain the Shade Cloak upgrade. Then, head southeast in Deepnest until you encounter a Shade Gate blocking the path to the charm. Simply activate your Shade Cloak ability to pass through the gate and claim the Sharp Shadow Charm.

Shape of Unn

description: Reveals the form of Unn within the bearer. While focusing SOUL, the bearer will take on a new shape and can move freely to avoid enemies.

notches required: Two

how to unlock: obtained the Crystal Heart, they can access this area. Isma’s Tear grants immunity to acidic pools, allowing safe traversal through otherwise hazardous waters. Once equipped with Isma’s Tear, players can explore the Lake of Unn, which is normally acidic. Descend towards the southwest section of the secret area, where they’ll encounter Unn. Unn will gift them with the Charm, enabling access to previously unreachable locations, including the Queen’s Gardens. Additionally, players seeking the Spore Shroom Charm should head close to the entrance of the Queen’s Gardens. There, they’ll find a room with acid pools that can be navigated by bouncing on purple mushrooms. Descending to the lower level using the Mantis Claw, they’ll discover the Spore Shroom Charm tucked away in a small nook on the far right side of the room.

Nailmaster's Glory

description: Contains the passion, skill and regrets of a Nailmaster. Increases the bearer's mastery of Nail Arts, allowing them to focus their power faster and unleash arts sooner.

notches required: One

how to unlock: After obtaining all three Nail Arts from the hidden Nailmasters, players should visit Sly in Dirtmouth. Sly has opened a secret room inside his shop. Once there, speak to Sly, and he will gift the Knight with the powerful Nailmaster’s Glory Charm, which significantly reduces the charge time for all Nail Arts

Weaversong

description: Silken charm containing a song of farewell, left by the Weavers who departed Hallownest for their old home. Summons weaverlings to give the lonely bearer some companionship and protection.

notches required: Two

how to unlock: To acquire the Weaversong Charm, players should venture into Deepnest. South of the entrance to Queen’s Gardens, there lies a secret area known as the Weaver’s Den. This den was once inhabited by the spider clan but has long been abandoned. To reach it, players must first obtain the Crystal Heart to navigate the treacherous terrain. Inside the Weaver’s Den, there is a breakable wall concealing the coveted Weaversong Charm.

Dream Wielder

description: Transient charm created for those who wield the Dream Nail and collect Essence. Allows the bearer to charge the Dream Nail faster and collect more SOUL when striking foes.

notches required: One

how to unlock: Once players have unlocked the Dream Nail, they can begin collecting Essence. This valuable resource powers up the Dream Nail and can be obtained from various sources.

Dreamshield

description: Defensive charm once wielded by a tribe that could shape dreams. Conjures a shield that follows the bearer and attempts to protect them.

notches required: Three

how to unlock: In the resting grounds there is a room below the seer where this charm can be picked up.

Grimmchild

description: Worn by those who take part in the Grimm Troupe's Ritual. The bearer must seek the Grimmkin and collect their flames. Uncollected flames will appear on the bearer's map.

notches required: Two

how to unlock: You will need to visit the Grimm Trouple to Dirtmouth.

Carefree Melody

description: Token commemorating the start of a friendship. Contains a song of protection that may defend the bearer from damage.

notches required: Three

how to unlock: You can unlock this charm if you opt to banish the Grimm Troupe.

Kingsoul

description: Holy charm symbolising a union between higher beings. The bearer will slowly absorb the limitless SOUL contained within. Opens the way to a birthplace.

notches required: Five

how to unlock: This can be created by combining both halves of the charm.

Void Heart

description: An emptiness that was hidden within, now unconstrained. Unifies the void under the bearer's will. This charm is a part of its bearer and can not be unequipped.

notches required: None

how to unlock: This is unlocked after both halves of Kingsoul has been combined when the abyss is opened.

Hollow knight was released on February 24, 2017 and was a massive success. Many players are wondering when the sequel Silksong will be released. It is belived that Silksong will be released in 2024 although there is no official release date that has been set. Hollow Knight is a single player game that can take a total of 30 hours to complete if you are focused on the main objectives. Although there are many other side objectives that will increase this duration for players who want to receive the full experience.

Many people wonder how many grubs there are in hollow knight. There are a total of 46 grubs to be found in the game. If you manage to free all of the Grubs which will provide a reward and return to the Grubfather, it appears that Grubfather has eaten them.

How to get more notches in Hollow Knight?

Notches allow for the player to equip more charms which will increase the success of their run. While players start with three free notches, there are a total of 8 charm notch upgrades that can be found for a total of 11 notches.

All of the notch locations are as follows: Salubra's Shop (4 notches can be purchased here), Fog Canyon, Fungal Wastes, Colosseum of Fools and Grimm Battle.

Salubra's Shop

In Salubra’s shop, located near the bottom of the Forgotten Crossroads above the abandoned village, you can easily find charms and notches. Salubra, a charm connoisseur, offers notches and charms for purchase. The first notch upgrade is available for 120 Geo after the Knight has collected at least five charms.

As the Knight’s charm collection grows, they can return to Salubra after acquiring 10 charms and purchase another upgrade for 500 Geo. When the player has 18 charms, they can buy a third notch for 900 Geo. The fourth notch from Salubra becomes available for 1800 Geo after finding or purchasing 25 charms.

Fog Canyon

The charm notch is challenging to reach, situated at the end of a labyrinthine path in Fog Canyon beneath the Stone Sanctuary. To access it, the Knight requires Isma’s Tear, which allows swimming in acid without harm, or the Monarch Wings for a double jump. Adding to the difficulty, the path is infested with explosive Oomas, and the area is initially blocked by explosives that must be detonated using Shade Soul before progressing.

Fungal Wastes

In the Fungal Wastes, the Knight can find a charm notch in a room to the left of the uppermost bench. To acquire it, the Knight must engage in battle with the two Shrumal Ogres guarding the notch and defeat them. Once victorious, simply pick up the charm notch. While the battle is relatively easy, it’s essential to proceed with caution, as with any fight. Luckily, there’s a nearby bench for respawning, so be sure to rest there before heading into battle.

Colosseum of Fools

The Colosseum of Fools offers three challenges. Upon completing the easiest of the three, The Trial of the Warrior, the Knight receives a charm notch. To unlock the trial, it costs 100 Geo. The challenge consists of 12 waves of slow-moving enemies, each requiring its own special strategy. While the trial can be completed multiple times, the charm notch is only rewarded once.

Grimm Battle

The Grimm Troupe DLC introduces the Nightmare King and Grimm. Players have the chance to earn an eleventh charm notch. After lighting the Nightmare Lantern, return to Dirtmouth where the Grimm Troupe has set up tents. Grimm assigns the Knight the task of collecting Nightmare Flames using their Grimmchild. Once the second set of three flames is collected, Grimm challenges the Knight to a battle to test their strength for the upcoming confrontation with the Nightmare King. Successfully completing this challenge results in a charm notch upgrade for the Knight.

Where to get pale ore in Hollow Knight?

Lets take a look at the easiest way to get pale ore in Hollow Knight. In the game world of Hallownest, you can find a total of 6 Pale Ore. To fully upgrade your Nail, you’ll need all 6 of them. The simplest way to obtain Pale Ore is by defeating two guards in the Ancient Basin area. As you progress through the game’s story, you’ll eventually reach the Resting Grounds. There, you can collect 300 Essences, which will grant you additional Pale Ore.

How to dash in Hollow Knight?

In order to dash in Hollow Knight, you must get the Mothwing Cloak -- this cloak grants you the ability to dash. It can be obtained from the following steps:

How to get the double jump in Hollow Knight?

To double jump in Hollow Knight, you need to acuqire the Monarch Wings. Here are the steps to help you obtain the Monarch wings: