Conquering Zhang Jiao, the leader of the Yellow Turbans, is one of the first major hurdles in *Dynasty Warriors: Origins*. This guide will walk you through his two-phase battle.
This initial encounter is a one-on-one duel in a spacious wasteland. Zhang Jiao employs sorcery, hurling stones across the arena. His attacks vary depending on your distance: up close, he summons four stones; from afar, he unleashes eight in pairs. Maintain distance when he summons a large number of stones to avoid heavy damage.
While primarily a ranged fighter, Zhang Jiao has close-range combos you can parry, and an area-of-effect (AOE) attack that pushes you back. A white glow signals his charging AOE; evade to avoid damage. He also uses unblockable attacks (indicated by a red aura), summoning numerous rocks or clones. The best strategy here is to maintain distance and wait for these attacks to conclude before resuming your assault. A sword is recommended for optimal damage output.
Remember to manage your health. Depending on your skill upgrades, you might only have four healing opportunities. Meat buns are conveniently located in jars near the arena entrance—use them to replenish your health between attacks.
Once you activate Musou Rage, phase two begins. The Yellow Turbans join the fray, but thankfully, your army arrives to assist. This is an ideal time to replenish your health with the meat buns. Zhang Jiao introduces tornado attacks, so be mindful of the wind while fighting his soldiers.
After defeating enough soldiers, Zhang Jiao attempts a Grand Tactic, demanding you eliminate 300 soldiers within a short timeframe. Failure results in a devastating attack. Simultaneously, Zhang Jiao summons lightning strikes. Observe the ground for a closing ring; evade when it flashes. Musou Mode is highly effective for quickly eliminating large numbers of soldiers, though basic Musou mode may be more practical given the time constraint.
Successfully thwarting Zhang Jiao's Grand Tactic twice brings him back to the battlefield with his phase one tactics. However, with your army's support, this final push should be relatively straightforward, concluding Chapter 1.
That's how to defeat Zhang Jiao in Dynasty Warriors: Origins. Good luck, warrior!
Dynasty Warriors: Origins is available now on PS5, PC, and Xbox Series X/S.