What happens if you hit the Nailsmith Hollow Knight?

What Happens if You Hit the Nailsmith Hollow Knight?

The Nailsmith is a significant character in the Hollow Knight, a critically acclaimed indie game developed by Team Cherry. As you explore the world of Hallownest, you’ll come across the Nailsmith, who is responsible for upgrading your nail, a vital tool for combat and exploration. But what happens if you hit the Nailsmith? In this article, we’ll delve into the consequences of attacking the Nailsmith and explore the benefits of sparing him.

The Consequences of Hitting the Nailsmith

If you choose to attack the Nailsmith, you’ll earn the "Purity" achievement. This achievement is unlocked by defeating the Nailsmith with the Pure Nail, which is a special nail that can be crafted by collecting specific items. Hitting the Nailsmith will also prevent him from moving to Sheo’s hut in Greenpath, a location that becomes accessible later in the game.

Here are some key consequences of hitting the Nailsmith:

• No upgrades from the Nailsmith: By attacking the Nailsmith, you’ll prevent him from upgrading your nail. This means you’ll miss out on valuable upgrades that can enhance your combat and exploration abilities.
• Loss of potential benefits: The Nailsmith can provide various benefits, such as restoring your health or offering helpful advice. By hitting him, you’ll forfeit these benefits and any future interactions with him.
• Impact on the story: The Nailsmith’s fate is tied to the game’s story, and his death can have a ripple effect on the narrative. By killing him, you may miss out on crucial plot developments or character interactions.

The Benefits of Sparring the Nailsmith

On the other hand, sparing the Nailsmith can have significant benefits:

• Upgrades from the Nailsmith: If you choose to spare the Nailsmith, he’ll continue to upgrade your nail, providing you with powerful new abilities and enhancements.
• Potential benefits: By sparing the Nailsmith, you’ll gain access to his helpful abilities and advice, which can aid you in your journey.
• Impact on the story: Leaving the Nailsmith alive can influence the game’s story, allowing you to experience alternative storylines and character interactions.

When to Spare the Nailsmith

Sparing the Nailsmith is often the better choice, but there are situations where it may be necessary to attack him:

• Resource management: If you’re low on resources or struggling to progress, defeating the Nailsmith may be necessary to obtain valuable items or upgrades.
• Character development: In some cases, the Nailsmith’s death can have a significant impact on the game’s story or characters. If you’re invested in a particular character or storyline, it may be worth sacrificing the Nailsmith to progress.

Conclusion

Hitting the Nailsmith in Hollow Knight can have significant consequences, including the loss of upgrades and potential benefits. However, sparing him can provide valuable upgrades, access to helpful abilities, and a more engaging storyline. Ultimately, the decision to attack or spare the Nailsmith depends on your gameplay style and priorities.