How to Excel in One-on-One Duels in Dynasty Warriors: Origins

While Dynasty Warriors: Origins centers on battling hordes of enemies, its thrilling one-on-one duels stand out as a key returning feature. Here’s how they function.

What Defines Duels in Dynasty Warriors: Origins?

Introduced in Dynasty Warriors 4, duels make a comeback in Dynasty Warriors: Origins. They unlock in Chapter 2, allowing you to challenge notable enemy officers. You can initiate a duel by pressing R1 and L1 together, but the window to do so is brief, and only high-ranking foes are eligible.

Once a duel begins, a circle of soldiers forms, isolating you and your opponent for a one-on-one clash. Unlike standard combat, a meter at the top of the screen tracks your progress. Each successful hit you land pushes the meter in your favor, while hits you take shift it toward your opponent.

Your objective is to fill the meter by landing enough hits. Your starting position in the meter depends on your army’s morale, not your health. High morale gives you an edge, while low morale benefits your opponent. In these intense duels, focus on your rival’s attack patterns, dodging and parrying strategically to avoid damage. Keep your distance if they unleash a Battle Art, and stay cautious, as time is limited but recklessness can cost you.

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Winning a duel in Dynasty Warriors: Origins inflicts massive damage on your opponent and boosts your army’s morale significantly. Losing, however, results in heavy damage to you and a morale drop for your forces, which can be devastating late in battle. If neither side wins, the duel ends without penalties, and gameplay resumes normally. In some critical duels, losing means mission failure, while victory secures the battle. Though duels can shift the tide, underestimating your foe could lead to defeat.

That’s how to master duels in Dynasty Warriors: Origins.

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