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 One-on-One Duel
This phase unfolds in a large, open arena. Zhang Jiao utilizes sorcery, launching projectiles at you. His attacks vary based on your distance:
- Close Range: He summons four stones, requiring swift evasion.
- Long Range: He conjures eight stones, launched in pairs, easily dodged by circling him.
Maintain a safe distance when he summons a large volley of stones to avoid significant damage. While primarily a ranged fighter, he also employs close-range combos (parryable) and an area-of-effect (AOE) pushback attack. A white glow signals his AOE attack; evade promptly.
Later, he unleashes unblockable attacks (red aura), including a massive rockfall and clone summoning. The best strategy is to retreat and wait for the attack to conclude before resuming your offensive. 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). Utilize the meat buns near the arena entrance for replenishing health between attacks.
Phase 2: Aided Assault
Activating Musou Rage triggers Phase 2, bringing Yellow Turban reinforcements. Fortunately, your own army arrives to assist, providing a respite. This is an ideal time to heal using the meat buns. Zhang Jiao introduces tornado attacks, so be mindful of the wind while eliminating his troops.
Zhang Jiao will attempt a Grand Tactic, demanding you eliminate 300 soldiers within a short timeframe. Failure results in 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 Rage) is efficient for quickly eliminating large numbers of soldiers during this phase.
Successfully countering his Grand Tactic twice brings Zhang Jiao back to the battlefield with Phase 1 tactics. With your army's support, defeating him should be relatively straightforward, concluding Chapter 1.
Conclusion
By employing these strategies, you can successfully overcome Zhang Jiao in Dynasty Warriors: Origins, currently available on PS5, PC, and Xbox Series X/S.