One of the first major challenges in Dynasty Warriors: Origins comes when facing the Yellow Turban leader Zhang Jiao. Here's how to overcome this formidable opponent.

How To Fight Zhang Jiao's First Phase

The initial phase is a one-on-one battle in an open wasteland. Zhang Jiao employs sorcery, hurling stones across the battlefield. At close range, he summons four projectiles - requiring quick evasive maneuvers. When distant, he conjures eight stones, launching them in pairs that can be avoided by circling him. Stay clear when he gathers his stone arsenal to prevent heavy damage.

While primarily using ranged attacks, Zhang Jiao does possess close-combat techniques. His basic combos can be parried, but watch for his white-glowing AOE attack that forcibly pushes players back - retreat when you see him charging this move.

Eventually, he'll activate harder-hitting attacks marked by a red aura (these cannot be interrupted). These include massive rock formations and clone summons. The safest counter is simply waiting out these powerful moves before retaliating. Weapon choice matters - swords prove most effective against him compared to spears or gauntlets.

Keep vigilant about your health management. With limited healing items (typically four uses depending on upgrades), utilize the meat bun jars near the arena entrance during lulls in combat.

How To Fight Zhang Jiao's Second Phase

Triggering Musou Rage initiates phase two, where both armies join the fray. While your forces provide support, Zhang Jiao commands whirlwinds to disrupt positioning. Take healing opportunities from the arena-edge meat buns while avoiding environmental hazards.

The battle escalates when Zhang Jiao attempts his Grand Tactic - requiring you to eliminate 300 soldiers within minutes while dodging lightning strikes (watch for ground indicators). For crowd control, activate Musou Mode to efficiently wipe out groups, though conserve Musou Rage for critical moments.

After thwarting two Grand Tactics, Zhang Jiao reverts to phase one patterns. With allied forces supporting you, his remaining health should fall quickly, concluding Chapter 1.

With these strategies, you'll overcome Zhang Jiao in Dynasty Warriors: Origins.

Dynasty Warriors: Origins is now available on PS5, PC, and Xbox Series X/S.