Conquering Zhang Jiao, the leader of the Yellow Turbans, is a significant early hurdle in Dynasty Warriors: Origins. This guide will walk you through defeating him in his two phases.
How to Defeat Zhang Jiao: Phase 1
Your first encounter with Zhang Jiao is a one-on-one duel in a vast wasteland. He utilizes sorcery, launching stones across the arena. His attacks vary depending on your distance: up close, he hurls four stones; from afar, he unleashes eight in pairs. Maintain a safe distance when he summons a large number of stones to avoid heavy damage. While primarily a ranged attacker, Zhang Jiao also employs close-range combos (easily parried) and a knockback AoE attack. A glowing white aura signals his impending AoE; evade to avoid taking damage.
Later in the fight, Zhang Jiao will enter a red-aura phase, indicating uninterruptible attacks. These include a massive rockfall and clone summoning. The best strategy is to maintain distance and wait for the attacks to conclude before resuming your offense. For optimal damage output, equip a sword.
Resource management is crucial. Depending on your skill upgrades, you likely have limited healing opportunities. Remember the meat buns located near the arena entrance; utilize them for quick healing whenever you retreat to recover.
How to Defeat Zhang Jiao: Phase 2
Once you activate Musou Rage, Phase 2 begins. Zhang Jiao receives support from the Yellow Turbans, but thankfully, so do you! This provides opportunities for healing using those convenient meat buns. Be mindful of the tornados Zhang Jiao summons; they'll disrupt your attacks.
Zhang Jiao will attempt a Grand Tactic, requiring you to eliminate 300 soldiers within a short timeframe. Failure results in a devastating attack. Simultaneously, he'll unleash lightning strikes indicated by a closing ring on the ground; watch your footing and evade when the ring flashes. Efficiently eliminate the Yellow Turbans using Musou Mode (or basic Musou if timing proves difficult).
After thwarting two Grand Tactics, Zhang Jiao returns with his Phase 1 attacks. With your army's support, this final phase should be relatively straightforward, culminating in the completion of Chapter 1.
Master these strategies and you'll conquer Zhang Jiao in Dynasty Warriors: Origins. The game is available now on PS5, PC, and Xbox Series X/S.
