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 details strategies for overcoming his two-phase battle.
Phase 1: A Solo Showdown
This phase is a one-on-one duel in a spacious wasteland. Zhang Jiao utilizes sorcery, launching stones across the arena. His attacks vary based on your distance: close range triggers four stones requiring swift evasion, while long range results in eight stones launched in pairs, easily dodged by circling him. Maintain a safe distance when he summons many stones to avoid heavy damage.
While primarily a ranged fighter, Zhang Jiao possesses close-combat combos (parriable) and an area-of-effect (AOE) attack that repels you. His AOE is preceded by a white glow; evade promptly. Attacks with a red aura are uninterruptible, involving massive rockfalls and clone summons. The best counter is to maintain distance until the attack concludes. A sword is the recommended weapon for optimal damage output.
Resource management is crucial. Depending on skill upgrades, you likely have limited healing opportunities (around four). Meat buns are available near the arena entrance; utilize them strategically during recovery periods.
Phase 2: Aided Assault
Activating Musou Rage initiates Phase 2, bringing Yellow Turban reinforcements. Fortunately, your army joins the fray, providing respite and opportunities for healing at the entrance. Zhang Jiao introduces tornadoes to disrupt your attacks; maintain awareness of the wind to avoid being thrown off balance.
Zhang Jiao attempts a Grand Tactic after sufficient enemy casualties, demanding you eliminate 300 soldiers within a short timeframe. Failure results in a devastating attack. He also unleashes lightning strikes; observe the ground for converging rings and evade when they flash. Musou Mode is highly effective for rapid enemy elimination, though basic Musou may be more practical given the time constraints.
Foiling Zhang Jiao’s Grand Tactic twice returns him to the battlefield with Phase 1 tactics. However, with your army's support, defeating him should be significantly easier, concluding Chapter 1.
Victory is yours! Dynasty Warriors: Origins is available on PS5, PC, and Xbox Series X/S.