The key to beating the Hive Knight (Bee Knight) in Hollow Knight is understanding his attack patterns, using appropriate charms, and knowing when to heal.
Hive Knight Strategy
Here's a breakdown of how to defeat the Hive Knight:
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Attack Patterns: The Hive Knight has several key attacks:
- Short Dash: A quick dash across the arena.
- Long Dash: A longer dash, covering more distance. The video mentions differentiating between dashes by noise, the long dash has a more distinct sound.
- Falling Hive Blobs: He sends down blobs that explode.
- Spiked Armor: He surrounds himself with spiked armor, making him damaging to touch.
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General Strategy:
- Learn the Telegraphs: Pay attention to the Hive Knight's animations and sound cues. This will allow you to anticipate his attacks and react accordingly.
- Dodge and Counterattack: Focus on dodging the Hive Knight's attacks, and then strike during his brief recovery periods. The Shade Cloak is very useful here.
- Heal Strategically: Find safe moments to heal, such as after dodging a long dash or when he's recovering from his spiked armor attack.
- Utilize Spells: Spells like Vengeful Spirit/Shade Soul and Descending Dark can deal significant damage. Use them when you have an opening.
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Specific Tips:
- Dash attacks: Dashing through the Hive Knight when he performs a dash attack is safer than jumping over.
- Hive Blobs: Pay attention to where the blobs will land and move to avoid them. You can also use Desolate Dive/Descending Dark for invincibility frames to avoid damage.
- Spiked Armor: Avoid contact while he has spiked armor active. Use this time to heal or reposition yourself.
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Recommended Charms:
- Quick Focus: Allows you to heal more quickly.
- Shaman Stone: Increases spell damage.
- Longnail/Mark of Pride: Increases the range of your nail.
- Quick Slash: Allows you to attack more quickly.
- Sharp Shadow: Damages enemies when you dash through them. Useful when dodging his dashes.
By learning the Hive Knight's attack patterns, dodging effectively, and using the right charms, you'll be able to defeat him.