Silksong Needle Strike Guide: Everything you need to know

What to know

• Needle Strike is a charged attack that delivers a stronger blow than Hornet’s standard attack, ideal for breaking enemy defenses.
• You acquire it by meeting the Pinstress in the Blasted Steps region, typically at the end of Act 1.
• It varies with equipped Crests, offering different animations and effects to suit your playstyle.
• Reaching the Pinstress may involve a boss fight and platforming, depending on your path.

In Hollow Knight: Silksong, the Needle Strike is a pivotal ability that boosts Hornet’s offensive capabilities, allowing you to charge a devastating attack. To unlock it, you’ll need to navigate to the Blasted Steps, a key region in the game’s world of Pharloom, and meet an NPC called the Pinstress. This ability typically becomes available toward the end of Act 1, making it a significant milestone in your progression.

How to unlock the Needle Strike in Silksong

Step 1:

Start by advancing through the game until you reach the Blasted Steps, accessible after acquiring the wall jump ability in Shellwood. From the Bellway Station in Shellwood, head right, drop down, and move left until you reach a bench. From there, go up to unlock the gate to Blasted Steps’ Bellway Station.

Step 2:

Once in Blasted Steps, head to the fast travel point or bench. From here, move right and descend into the main channel. Activate glide mode and veer slightly left, following a blue flag on the map pointing to a table on the far left.

Step 3:

Some paths require you to defeat the Great Conchflies, a duo boss that deals double mask damage. Prepare for this fight by resting at the bench in Blasted Steps, as it’s close to the boss area. Defeating them clears a blocked path.

Steps 4:

After the boss, locate the Pinstress in her hut within Blasted Steps. Speak with her, and she’ll teach you the Needle Strike through a brief training session, permanently unlocking the ability.

Step 5:

Acquire the Needle Strike ability after interacting with Pinstress in Blasted Steps.

Note: Some sources suggest the Pinstress encounter is straightforward and story-driven, making it hard to miss if you explore thoroughly. However, others indicate a boss fight or platforming may be involved, depending on your route.

Implementing the Needle Strike

Once unlocked, the Needle Strike integrates seamlessly into Hornet’s moveset. Here’s how to use it effectively:

1. Charge the attack: Hold the attack button (specific controls depend on your platform—e.g., hold the designated button on PC or controller). You’ll see Hornet gather energy, with visual and audio cues indicating when the charge is complete.
2. Release the strike: Let go of the button to unleash a powerful blow. In the air, Hornet maintains her height during the attack, only falling once the animation finishes.
3. Understand limitations: The charged attack follows a set animation and cannot be redirected downward, so position yourself carefully.

Crest variations for Needle Strike

The Needle Strike’s animation and effects change based on the Crest equipped, allowing you to tailor Hornet’s combat style. Here’s a breakdown of known variations:

Note: Experiment with Crests to find the variation that best fits your playstyle, whether you prefer rapid jabs or sweeping strikes.

Strategic tips for using Needle Strike

The Needle Strike is a high-risk, high-reward ability that requires careful timing due to its charge-up period. Here are some tips to maximize its effectiveness:

• Break armored defenses: Use the Needle Strike to shatter the guard of tough enemies or bosses, especially during brief openings.
• Manage risk: Charging leaves Hornet vulnerable, so ensure you’re safe from enemy attacks before committing. Practice timing to avoid interruptions.
• Combine with mobility: Since the strike sustains Hornet’s height in the air, use it during jumps to maintain positioning against aerial foes.
• Leverage Crest synergy: Pair the Needle Strike with Crests that complement your combat approach. For example, the Wanderer Crest’s quick jabs suit aggressive play, while the Reaper Crest’s wide arc is great for crowd control.

Overcoming challenges on the path

If your route to the Pinstress involves the Great Conchflies or platforming, preparation is key:

Great Conchflies boss fight:

This duo boss can be tough due to their double mask damage. Rest at the nearby bench, equip defensive Crests if available, and focus on dodging their coordinated attacks while landing precise strikes.

Platforming sections:

The platforming in Blasted Steps demands mastery of Hornet’s moves, like Sprint Jump and Jump-Dash-Glide. Practice these in safer areas to build confidence before tackling the gaps.

Mastering the Needle Strike for success

The Needle Strike is a game-changer in Hollow Knight: Silksong, offering a versatile and powerful addition to Hornet’s arsenal. By unlocking it through the Pinstress in Blasted Steps and mastering its timing and Crest variations, you’ll be well-equipped to tackle Pharloom’s toughest enemies. Whether you’re breaking through armored foes or chaining attacks in mid-air, this ability rewards skillful play and strategic planning. Explore Blasted Steps, experiment with Crests, and make the Needle Strike a cornerstone of your combat strategy.