How to Beat the Bell Beast in Hollow Knight: Silksong

Phase 1: Reading the Ground

The Bell Beast’s signature move is subterranean chaos. It burrows beneath the bell-strewn floor and erupts to charge. Your warning? Ground vibrations.

• Ground Charge: If the earth rumbles without a growl, jump and dive attack from above. You’ll bounce off like a needle-wielding trampoline.
• Leap Charge: If the rumble comes with a growl, stay centered. The beast will leap across the arena and land hard. That’s your window—strike before it burrows again.

This phase is all about rhythm. Listen. Watch. React.

Phase 2: Bells Become Weapons

Once you’ve dealt enough damage, the Bell Beast adds environmental hazards. It bursts from the center and sends two massive chimes flying into the air. They slam down on either side, then roll outward.

This is where the Silk Spear shines. Stay at range. Strike with precision. Don’t get greedy.

Phase 3: Ceiling Chaos

Remember the Moss Mother’s falling debris? The Bell Beast takes that and turns it into a symphony of concussions. When the room shakes, look up. Shafts of light and dust will mark where chimes are about to drop—and bounce.

Yes, bounce. Because one impact isn’t enough. You’ll need to dodge both the fall and the rebound. It’s a dance of vertical awareness.

Advanced Tactics: Survive the Ritual

• Positioning Over Aggression: The Bell Beast telegraphs its moves. If you’re paying attention, you’ll never be surprised. Stay mobile. Don’t overcommit.
• Environmental Awareness: Chimes fall randomly throughout the fight. Watch the ceiling. Watch the floor. The arena itself is trying to kill you.
• Use the Silk Spear: It’s not just a key—it’s a lifeline. Use it to strike from a distance when the beast is surrounded by hazards.

Victory and What Comes After

Once you’ve dealt enough damage, the Bell Beast retreats underground. Hornet doesn’t kill it—she earns its respect. Your reward? The first Silk Heart, which regenerates a spool of silk when you run dry.

But there’s more. Walk to the right side of the arena and the now-docile Bell Beast will reappear. This unlocks the Bellways—Silksong’s fast travel system. You can now warp between discovered locations, including Bone Bottom.

Final Thoughts: The Bell Beast as Design Philosophy

This fight isn’t just a boss—it’s a thesis. It tests movement, timing, environmental awareness, and your first real Silk Skill. It’s not the most complex encounter, but it’s foundational. And the fact that your adversary becomes your ally? That’s classic Team Cherry storytelling. Ritual, transformation, and earned trust.

So go forth. Bounce with intention. Strike with clarity. And when the bells fall, listen. They’re not just hazards—they’re hymns. And you’re ready to sing.