# Abilities

> Source: https://indiegameswiki.com/wiki/hollow-knight/abilities
> Part of the Hollow Knight wiki on Indie Games Wiki. License: CC BY-SA 4.0.
> Last updated: 2026-07-15T03:20:35.940Z
Permanent movement and spell upgrades are the backbone of exploration in Hallownest. New abilities open previously unreachable areas, in classic metroidvania fashion.

## Movement abilities

- **Mothwing Cloak** - a horizontal dash.
- **Mantis Claw** - wall climbing and wall jumps.
- **Crystal Heart** - a powerful horizontal super dash.
- **Monarch Wings** - a double jump.
- **Isma's Tear** - swim safely through acid pools.
- **Shade Cloak** - an upgraded dash that passes through enemies and attacks.

## Spells

SOUL, gathered by striking enemies, powers both healing (Focus) and offensive spells such as Vengeful Spirit, Desolate Dive and Howling Wraiths. Each spell has an upgraded form.

## Nail upgrades

The Nailsmith in the City of Tears upgrades your nail's damage using Pale Ore. Nail Arts are taught separately by the three Nailmasters.

Route suggestions live in the [[Walkthrough]].