How To Duel Enemies in Dynasty Warriors: Origins

While Dynasty Warriors: Origins is renowned for its massive, chaotic battles against hordes of enemies, a compelling gameplay element returning from previous installments is the duel system. Let's delve into how these intense one-on-one encounters work.

What Are Duels in Dynasty Warriors: Origins?

Introduced in Dynasty Warriors 4 and making a triumphant return after over two decades, duels add a strategic layer to the gameplay. While initially unavailable, the ability to duel unlocks in Chapter 2. However, you won't be facing just any soldier; duels are reserved for challenging high-ranking enemy officers. When presented with the opportunity, press R1 and L1 simultaneously—but act quickly, as this window is time-limited.

The duel initiates in a designated arena surrounded by soldiers, creating a focused one-on-one battle. Unlike standard combat, a duel features a progress bar at the top of the screen, tracking both your and your opponent's success. Each successful hit advances your meter, while your opponent's hits fill theirs.

The objective is to fill your meter by inflicting enough damage on your opponent. Your starting position in the duel isn't determined by health, but rather your current morale. A winning streak gives you a head start, while trailing behind leaves you at a disadvantage. Evenly matched opponents begin with equal progress. Given the one-on-one nature, mastering your opponent's attack patterns, utilizing dodges and parries, and maintaining a safe distance (especially when they use Battle Arts) are crucial for victory. Remember, time is limited, but reckless aggression is rarely rewarded.

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Victory in a duel results in massive damage to your opponent and a significant morale boost for your forces. Conversely, defeat inflicts substantial damage and a heavy morale penalty, potentially jeopardizing your position in a prolonged battle. However, there's no penalty for stalemates; both combatants disengage, and the battle continues normally. Only in unavoidable duels does defeat result in immediate mission failure; victory, on the other hand, guarantees mission success. Therefore, while duels offer the potential for significant battlefield advantages, underestimating your opponent can lead to disastrous consequences.

And that's your guide to dueling in Dynasty Warriors: Origins.

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