Shactuka ranks as one of the most formidable foes you’ll encounter in The First Berserker: Khazan. With one of the largest health pools in the game at this stage, Shactuka manifests as a colossal lion-like creature adorned with a large spiked collar. While his movements are deliberate, his attacks are no less lethal, featuring the ability to inflict Plague buildup. To stand a good chance of overcoming this beast, it’s wise to enter the battle armed with Plague-resistance potions and elixirs.
Shactuka serves as the ninth major boss in The First Berserker: Khazan. Although he may appear slow and clunky compared to the agile Elamein, his strikes pack a significant punch. The delay between his attacks can make it tricky to time your counters and reflections effectively. During this encounter, patience is crucial. Wait for Shactuka to deliver one of his heavy, lumbering swings or fierce bites to lower his stamina and inflict damage. Once you conquer this foe, you’ll receive two random pieces from the Beastslayer Set along with a chance to acquire a special crafting material called Beast’s Jawbone.
Where to Locate Shactuka in The First Berserker: Khazan
Shactuka Resides at the Execution Ground Entrance
You can find Shactuka at the conclusion of Linon Mine during the “Inconceivable Truth” mission, where Khazan is on a mission to rescue his loyal lieutenant and close friend, Yulian. This mission is set at level 69 and requires navigating through six different sections of the Linon Mine before arriving at the Execution Ground Entrance.
As you approach Shactuka, keep an eye out for the various plague-ridden hazards present in each map area to prepare for the battle ahead. Stock up on Plague Cleanse Potions and Plague Resistance Elixirs before venturing into locations like the Underground Shaft and the Cave of Gloom. Increasing your Vitality will also bolster your overall resistances, which is advantageous for upcoming regions and bosses.
Strategies to Defeat Shactuka
Attack When Shactuka is Vulnerable & Wait for His Wind-Up Moves
Shactuka, though a colossal beast with somewhat clumsy attacks, is still a dangerous opponent. His blows are powerful, and if you try to block them, your stamina can diminish rapidly. He is capable of pouncing on you, lifting you off the ground with his bite, which also contributes to Plague buildup. Prioritize drinking a Plague elixir before you engage to help reduce the effects.
If Khazan runs out of stamina while his Plague level is maxed, he will cancel all actions and start coughing up blood.
Shactuka will attempt lunges, but he typically signals these pounces beforehand. This provides an opportunity for you to prepare for a Brink Guard or Reflection. During the battle, observe when he stumbles and falls, giving you the chance to unleash combo attacks or Potent Blows. Shactuka may also leap past you, leaving another opening for a powerful stamina-draining guard or Reflection attack. Ultimately, this fight is a test of patience, requiring you to wait for the right moment when Shactuka is less frantic.
Rewards for Conquering Shactuka
The Beastslayer Set: An Excellent Choice for Dual Wield Gear
Upon defeating Shactuka, you’ll walk away with a hefty reward of 36,414 Lacrima, along with some gold, a random weapon or accessory, and two random pieces from the Beastslayer Set. Shactuka might also drop the Beast’s Jawbone, essential for crafting the Beastslayer gear. This set functions as a Dual Wield gear set with impressive features that greatly enhance the Whirlwind Dual Wield skill. I recommend this set for anyone pursuing a Dual Wield build unless you find a more appealing alternative.
Overall, Shactuka presents a significant challenge, requiring you to familiarize yourself with his slow yet unpredictable movements. Once you master the timing, you can effectively employ Reflections, Brink Guards, and Counter-Attacks to lower his stamina and unleash destructive combos before he can retaliate. Make the most of Shactuka’s missteps, and you’ll add yet another victory against a tough boss to your list in The First Berserker: Khazan.
