What happens if you banish Grimm Troupe?

What happens if you banish Grimm Troupe in Hollow Knight depends on your choice during this pivotal DLC questline. Players face a crucial decision that permanently affects their playthrough and available content.

The Banishment Process

To banish the Grimm Troupe, you must speak with Brumm in Deepnest after collecting at least one flame for the ritual. Brumm will give you the Carefree Melody charm and ask you to destroy the Nightmare Lantern in Dirtmouth. Using the Dream Nail on the lantern begins the banishment sequence.

Immediate Consequences of Banishing

When you banish the Grimm Troupe, several significant changes occur:

- The entire troupe disappears from Dirtmouth permanently

- Grimm and all troupe members vanish from your save file

- The tent and all associated NPCs are removed

- You cannot fight the Nightmare King Grimm boss

- Brumm transforms into Nymm and relocates to Dirtmouth as a musician

What You Gain vs. What You Lose

Gained Items:

- Carefree Melody charm: Provides a chance to avoid damage when equipped

- Peace in Dirtmouth as the mysterious troupe departs

Lost Opportunities:

- Grimmchild charm: The evolving companion charm becomes permanently unavailable

- Nightmare King Grimm fight: One of the game's most challenging and rewarding boss battles

- Achievement completion: Missing out on Grimm-related achievements

- Flame collection quest: The ritual cannot be completed

Is Banishment Worth It?

Most players consider banishing the Grimm Troupe the less rewarding path. The Carefree Melody charm is generally viewed as inferior to the fully evolved Grimmchild, and you miss out on an excellent boss fight. However, the choice adds meaningful consequence to player decisions.

The banishment route offers a more peaceful resolution but sacrifices significant content. Consider your playstyle and completion goals before making this irreversible choice.