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

One of the initial hurdles in Dynasty Warriors: Origins is the formidable Zhang Jiao, leader of the Yellow Turbans. This guide provides a detailed strategy for defeating him.

Phase 1: A Solo Showdown

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

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

Maintain a safe distance when he summons a large volley to avoid significant damage. While his attacks primarily keep you at bay, he also employs close-range combos (parryable) and an area-of-effect (AOE) pushback attack. A white glow signals his impending AOE; retreat to avoid damage.

Later, he employs unblockable attacks (red aura), summoning numerous rocks and clones. The best strategy is to maintain distance until the attack concludes. Equip a sword for optimal damage output compared to spears or gauntlets.

Resource Management is Crucial: You'll likely have limited healing opportunities (around four times, depending on skill upgrades). Utilize the meat buns near the arena entrance for crucial health replenishment between attacks.

Phase 2: Aided Assault

Activating Musou Rage initiates Phase 2, bringing Yellow Turban reinforcements. Fortunately, your army arrives to assist, providing some respite. Use this opportunity to heal using the meat buns. Zhang Jiao introduces tornadoes, so be mindful of the wind while eliminating his troops.

Zhang Jiao will attempt a Grand Tactic, demanding you defeat 300 soldiers within a short timeframe. Failure results in a devastating attack. He'll also summon lightning strikes indicated by a closing ring on the ground; evade when the ring flashes. Musou Mode (basic, not Rage) is highly effective for quickly eliminating large numbers of soldiers.

After thwarting his Grand Tactic twice, Zhang Jiao returns with Phase 1 tactics. With your army's support, depleting his remaining health should be relatively straightforward, concluding Chapter 1.

Victory Achieved!

This strategy will help you triumph over Zhang Jiao in Dynasty Warriors: Origins, now available on PS5, PC, and Xbox Series X/S.