In Hollow Knight: Silksong, crests define combat strategies by modifying core abilities. Among these, the Architect Crest stands out as a game-changer for those mastering tool-based playstyles.
Here’s a breakdown of how to acquire this powerful emblem and maximize its potential.
Preparation for Obtaining the Architect Crest
Acquiring this emblem requires four traversal skills: Cling Grip, Aerial Leap, Clawline, and Dash Mastery. These let you navigate treacherous zones in Underworks – a late-game region filled with mechanical hazards. Prioritize upgrading your nail and collecting at least 25 tools, as these unlock access to essential vendor items.
Victory against the Last Judge, Act 1’s final boss, is mandatory. This intense battle demands precision but unlocks progression pathways and rewards critical for reaching the crest.
Locating the Architect Crest
Journey to Underworks’ northeastern sector – a labyrinth of rotating gears and spike traps. From the post-Judge vertical chamber, ascend to a bench near Whiteward’s border. Above this rest point, an elevated platform leads to the 12th Architect, a vendor offering Architect’s Keys for 110 Rosaries (requires 25 tools).
With the key, backtrack left from the vendor’s chamber through an upper tunnel. Use it in the Chapel of Architect to activate a deactivated automaton housing the crest.
Architect Crest Mechanics
This crest prioritizes tool versatility over Silk Skills, permitting three red, two blue, and two yellow tools simultaneously. Pair it with Vesticrest to gain additional blue/yellow slots. Ideal for projectile-heavy builds, it transforms basic attacks into spiral drills dealing 23-91 damage (charged), escalating with Flintslate enhancements.
Recommended Loadouts:
- Red Tools: Voltwyrm (area control), Silkshot (ranged), Flintslate (nail boost)
- Blue Tools: Spool Extender (silk efficiency), Pollip Pouch (poison synergy)
- Yellow Tools: Warding Bell (defense), Fate Dice (utility)
Enhanced crafting kits amplify tool damage, while Shell Fragments enable in-combat replenishment. The crest’s unique mechanics encourage experimental combinations, particularly with rare artifacts like Plasmium Phial.
By mastering this crest’s capabilities, players unlock unprecedented build diversity, cementing its status as a top-tier choice for strategic combat enthusiasts.