Needle Strike (Charge Attack)
Needle Strike is a fundamental offensive Ancestral Art in Hollow Knight: Silksong that allows Hornet to charge her standard attack into a much more powerful blow. This ability is Hornet’s first major damage upgrade, essential for breaking through the defenses of armored foes and dealing significant damage during boss openings.
This guide will explain how to meet the Pinstress to unlock Needle Strike and provide expert tips on mastering the timing and strategic use of this charge attack.
Needle Strike
"Focus your power into a single, devastating blow. Shatter the guard of your foes."
How to Get Needle Strike
Section titled “How to Get Needle Strike”Unlocking the Needle Strike is a straightforward encounter. Unlike other abilities that require complex quests or defeating bosses, this one is taught to you directly.
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Progress to the Blasted Steps As you follow the main progression of the game, you will eventually reach the Blasted Steps, a new region in Pharloom.
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Find and Meet the Pinstress Within this area, you will encounter an NPC known as the Pinstress. Simply find and speak to her. She will demonstrate the Needle Strike technique, and after your conversation, the ability will be permanently unlocked for you to use.
How to Charge Attack
Section titled “How to Charge Attack”The Needle Strike enhances your basic attack without requiring a separate button.
To perform a charge attack, simply press and hold your standard Attack button. You will see a visual and hear an audio cue as Hornet charges the attack. Once fully charged, release the button to unleash a powerful Needle Strike.
Usage Tips
Section titled “Usage Tips”The Needle Strike is a classic “risk vs. reward” ability. Charging leaves you momentarily vulnerable, but a successful hit is devastating.
Combat Tactics
- Breaking Guards: This is the primary use for Needle Strike. Use it to shatter the shields and break the armor of tough enemies that are immune to your standard attacks.
- Burst Damage: Charge the attack during safe windows in a boss fight (e.g., when a boss is staggered or between major attacks) to deal a large amount of damage in a single hit.
- Staggering Foes: A fully charged Needle Strike has a much higher chance of staggering enemies than a normal hit, creating further openings for you to attack or heal.
- Mastering Timing: The key to using Needle Strike effectively is learning enemy patterns. Only charge the attack when you know you have enough time before you need to dodge or parry.
Synergy Tips
- The Ultimate Combo (Needolin + Needle Strike): This remains one of the most powerful combos. Use the Needolin to stun a powerful enemy, then safely charge a full Needle Strike for guaranteed, massive damage.
- Tools for Openings: Combine Needle Strike with Tools that trap or stun enemies. Throw a trap, and while the enemy is immobilized, charge your attack for a free hit.