A Universal Time: How to Get Shanks and Unlock the Griffin Ability

Understanding the Shanks Spec in A Universal Time

If you are looking to add the powerful Shanks spec to your arsenal, you have come to the right place. In the latest content update for A Universal Time, players can finally wield the legendary Griffin blade. However, the game features multiple NPCs and bosses named Shanks, which often leads to confusion. To successfully obtain the ability, you must interact specifically with Conqueror Shanks in Orange Town.

It is important to note that this process requires you to have a sword ability already equipped, as the NPC will only provide tasks to those who show proficiency with blade-based combat. If you attempt to initiate the quest without one, you will be unable to proceed.

Identifying the Right NPC

The most common mistake players make is approaching the wrong Shanks. In Orange Town, you will find three distinct entities:

• Conqueror Shanks: The NPC you need to interact with. He is located in Orange Town but is distinct because he is not standing next to a chest.
• NPC Shanks: Standing near a chest, this version is associated with the Gomu Gomu no Mi questline, not the Griffin/Shanks spec.
• Boss Shanks: The enemy you must defeat as part of the quest. He spawns in the same area and can be identified by the "Boss Shanks" tag above his head.

Always double-check your surroundings before starting a dialogue to ensure you are talking to the Conqueror.

The Gryphon Quest Walkthrough

Once you have identified Conqueror Shanks, you can begin the Gryphon Quest. This quest is divided into several combat and fetch-based stages.

1. Initial Interaction: Speak to Conqueror Shanks and accept the request to prove your skills.
2. Slay 20 Pirates: Clear the area of 20 pirates. You must use your currently equipped sword ability to complete this task.
3. Deliver West Blue Juice: Find the West Blue Juice in nearby chests or crates and return it to him.
4. Defeat Buggy the Clown: Locate Buggy in Orange Town. Note that he respawns every 15 minutes if you are unable to find him immediately.
5. Defeat Boss Shanks: The final challenge is to take down the Shanks boss. He has 30,000 HP and spawns every 30–35 minutes.
6. Claim Your Reward: Return to Conqueror Shanks one last time to receive the Manual of Gryphon’s Techniques.

Tips for the Boss Fight

Defeating Boss Shanks is the most challenging part of the process. According to community reports, this boss does not suffer from typical knockback or stun effects, making him a formidable opponent.

Tip

Since the boss is resistant to stun, focus on high-damage combos and utilize your healing abilities effectively. If the boss glitches your screen or moves erratically, reset your position if necessary, but stay aggressive to whittle down his 30k HP pool.

Mastering the Griffin Ability

After receiving the Manual of Gryphon’s Techniques, you can use it to unlock the Shanks spec. Be aware that using the manual will replace your current ability, so ensure you are ready to make the switch.

Once equipped, your goal shifts to leveling up the spec to level 200 to unlock all its skills. The kit includes powerful moves such as:

• Yasopp Assist (Q): A reliable auto-aiming ranged attack.
• Divine Departure (T): A signature high-damage move with excellent range.
• Thunderous Crush (H): An effective AoE (Area of Effect) attack for crowd control.
• Final Departure (G): A cinematic, high-impact finisher.

• [ ] Ensure you have a sword ability equipped before starting the quest.
• [ ] Verify you are talking to the Shanks NOT standing by a chest.
• [ ] Keep an eye on the boss spawn timers (30–35 minutes for Boss Shanks).
• [ ] Prepare for a level grind; reaching level 200 is required to fully utilize the spec's potential.

FAQ

Does the Shanks spec require a specific level to obtain?

No, there is no level requirement to start the quest, but you must have a sword-based ability equipped to satisfy the NPC's conditions.

Can I get the Gomu Gomu no Mi from the same NPC?

No. While the NPCs look similar, the Gomu Gomu no Mi quest is handled by the NPC Shanks who stands next to a chest.

What happens if I die during the Boss Shanks fight?

You will need to wait for the boss to respawn. If you are struggling, consider teaming up with other players in the server, as the quest progress is individual, but the boss can be fought by multiple people.

Does the Shanks spec have unique traits?

Yes, like other specs, you can roll for traits. Community members suggest looking for traits that bypass invincibility or enhance damage, though any trait can be useful depending on your playstyle.