Conquering Zhang Jiao in Dynasty Warriors: Origins: A Comprehensive Guide

One of the initial hurdles in Dynasty Warriors: Origins is the battle against Zhang Jiao, leader of the Yellow Turbans. This guide provides a strategic approach to defeating him.

Phase 1: A Solo Showdown

This phase is a one-on-one duel in a large, open arena. Zhang Jiao utilizes sorcery, launching stones across the battlefield. His attacks vary based on your distance:

• Close Range: He summons four stones, requiring swift evasion.
• Long Range: He summons eight stones in pairs, easily dodged by circling him.

Maintain a safe distance when he conjures a large volley of stones to avoid significant damage. While primarily a ranged fighter, he also employs close-combat combos (parriable) and an area-of-effect (AOE) attack that repels you. A white glow signals his impending AOE; evade accordingly.

Later, he unleashes attacks with a red aura, indicating uninterruptible moves. These involve a massive rockfall and clone summoning. The best strategy is to maintain distance and wait for the attack's conclusion before resuming your offense. A sword is recommended for optimal damage output compared to spears or gauntlets.

Resource Management is Crucial: You likely have limited healing opportunities (around four, depending on skill upgrades). Meat buns are strategically located near the arena entrance; utilize them for recovery during breaks in the fight.

Phase 2: Aided Assault

Activating Musou Rage initiates Phase 2, bringing Yellow Turban reinforcements. Fortunately, your own army arrives to assist, providing breathing room and healing opportunities (grab those meat buns!). Zhang Jiao introduces tornadoes to disrupt your attacks; be mindful of the wind currents.

Defeating a sufficient number of soldiers triggers Zhang Jiao's Grand Tactic. You must eliminate 300 soldiers within a short timeframe to prevent a devastating attack. He'll also summon lightning strikes; observe the warning ring on the ground and evade when it flashes. Musou Mode (basic, not necessarily Rage) is highly effective for quickly eliminating large groups of soldiers.

Foiling his Grand Tactic twice brings Zhang Jiao back to the battlefield with Phase 1 tactics. With your army's support, this final phase should be relatively straightforward, concluding Chapter 1.

Victory is Yours!

By following these strategies, you can successfully defeat Zhang Jiao in Dynasty Warriors: Origins, currently available on PS5, PC, and Xbox Series X/S.