Needle Strike Ability Guide

The Needle Strike ability in Hollow Knight: Silksong lets Hornet charge her standard attack into a stronger blow before releasing it.

Hold energy in the needle, then release it as a damaging strike when you are ready.

Input: HOLD ATTACK

Location: Blasted Steps

Needle Strike Ability Functions

Hold ATTACK to charge the Needle Strike ability. White particles appear while the move charges, and a glow signals it is ready. Hornet can hold the charge until she takes damage or is interrupted. Releasing the attack in midair keeps her suspended at the same height until the animation finishes, and the strike only fires left or right.

Each Crest adjusts the Needle Strike ability:

• •Hunter Crest – Delivers two quick forward slashes.
• •Reaper Crest – Lifts Hornet slightly and cuts in a wide arc.
• •Wanderer Crest – Drives Hornet forward into a series of fast jabs.
• •Beast Crest – Leaps forward before striking above and ahead.
• •Architect Crest – Surges forward with a drilling hit that lands multiple times.
• •Witch Crest – Spins into two strikes that circle Hornet.
• •Shaman Crest – Sends a large wave forward.

How to Unlock the Needle Strike Ability

Meet the Pinstress in the Blasted Steps and complete her training session to gain the Needle Strike ability.