MOSS MOTHER
ACT I
Moss Grotto
DIFFICULTY
B Tier
REQUIRED
First Boss
Combat Statistics
IMPACT
75%
DAMAGE
80%
MOBILITY
60%
SURVIVAL
50%
MOBILITY
SURVIVAL
Combat Strategy
Moss Mother is the first boss in Hollow Knight: Silksong. She's designed to teach players basic combat mechanics like jumping, dodging, and needle attacks. The fight takes place in the Ruined Chapel area of Moss Grotto.
Entry Requirements
- None - First boss encounter
Rewards
- Access to Bone Bottom
- Weavelight (from double variant)
- Mask Shard
Recommended Tools
Moveset & Counters
| Move | Range | Startup | Recovery | Counter / Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SWOOP | MELEE | 18f | 24f | Jump and pogo off her head, or jump diagonally through the attack |
| HEADBUTT | AOE | 32f | 30f | Watch for dust/light beam indicators on ground, move to safe spots. Clear Mossgrubs first if summoned |
| STALACTITE DROP | AOE | 40f | 36f | Move between falling stalactites, use gaps for safe positioning |
Battle Phases
60% HP
Changes: Adds Stalactite Drop attack, May summon Mossgrubs instead of stalactites
Tips: Clear Mossgrubs immediately for silk regeneration. Use them as 'silk batteries' before binding.
Double Boss Variant
Changes: Summons second Moss Mother after first Headbutt, Both have higher HP, Drops 4 stalactites instead of 3
Tips: Force continuous Swoops to delay second boss summon. Use Tacks and Pollip Pouch for poison damage.
Strategy Tips
Basic Strategy
- Use the Bench right before the fight to save progress
- Learn to recognize her attack patterns - they're well-telegraphed
- Focus on safe punishes rather than aggressive play
- Use Straight Pin for consistent damage
Advanced Tips
- For the double variant, use Tacks to control the battlefield
- Pollip Pouch poison damage is very effective
- Clear Mossgrubs immediately for silk regeneration
- Practice the pogo technique on her head during Swoop attacks