The sword is the weapon you start the game with inDynasty Warriors: Origins, which makes it one of the easiest weapons get to grips with the basics of. However, as you upgrade to better swords through the game, it can be the greatest tool in your arsenal.
Part of the reason you start with a sword is because it’s such a diverse weapon. It’s handy for one on one combat, large crowds, charging on horseback, and duels, with a significant array of Battle Arts to pick from. While other weapons excel in specific areas, the sword will always be very useful indeed.
Dynasty Warriors: Origins Sword Moveset
Swords are also one of thefastest weapons in the game, and as such use a lot ofNormal attacks in quick succession. While they can still deliver Heavy attacks, other weapons pack more of a punch. It’s death by a thousands cuts with a sword in your hand.
6x Normal attack
A six-hit normal attack combo
Heavy attack
Move forward and unleash a kick
2x Heavy attack
Slash enemies staggered by the kick upward, launching them for a follow-up strike
Hold Heavy attack
Charge up power, then advance forward and unleash slashes and shockwaves
Left Stick + Heavy attack while evading
Leap forward nimbly to slash at your enemies
Normal attack + Heavy attack
Unleash a sweep that launches enemies into the air
Normal attack + 2x Heavy attacks
Leap up to enemies launched into the air for a follow-up strike
2x Normal attacks + Heavy attack
Release a forward flurry of forward slashes
2x Normal attacks + 2x Heavy attacks
Follow up the combo slash with a thrust
3x Normal attacks + Heavy attack
Slash around you while spinning
3x Normal attacks + 2x Heavy attacks
Slash around you and then advance forward to deal a follow-up strike
4x Normal attacks + Heavy attack
Perform a spinning jumping, catching enemies in your wake
4x Normal attacks + 2x Heavy attacks
Unleash a midair combo slash on enemies caught with the attack
5x Normal attacks + Heavy attack
Unleash a stream of combo attacks
5x Normal attacks + 2x Heavy attacks
After the combo attack, advance forward for a follow up strike
3x Normal attacks while in midair
Unleash a combo of normal attacks in midair
Heavy attack while in midair
Spin in midair, mowing down enemies around you
Sword Combat Tips
Since swords are so fast,Normal combosare the best way to cut down the masses of enemies that spill towards you on the field. With theWellspring Gemequipped, that also means that hunting down weak prey can heal you for when you face tougher challenges. However, given how many sword attacks knock enemies airbourne, you will also want to consider theWhirlwind Gem.
The sword is a greatevasive weaponas it has several attacks that get you out of danger or that deal damage in all directions, keeping you protected. When facing enemies in front of you, astandard Normal combois best and great for pushing them back, which can trap more enemies in your wake. However, you will need to consider your options when attacking stronger characters.
Because so many of the sword’s attacks are built around crowd control,they aren’t all effective in single combat against generals. Battle Arts likeFalcon Furycan help here, while the ability toShockwaveenemies or parry them (possibly with theAscendanceorScorch Gemequipped) will be vital here.
If you are a parrying expert, opt for the Scorch Gem. If you struggle with timing, the Ascendance Gem can help you out.
Best Sword Build
You might naturally think that the sword with thehighest Attack valuewould be best. And you’d be right! However, that doesn’t tell the full story. You tend to have more swords to choose from than other weapons because you unlock it so early, so keep in mind the importance of thetraits. Anything that boostsNormal attacks(to make the sword even better) or boostsBattle Arts(to cover its weakness) are worth sacrificing five or so Attack points.
Recommended Gems
As stated above, if you’re expecting to fight a lot of generals, and thereforegoing to rely on parrying, use either theScorch Gemor theAscendance Gemdepending on your needs. However, since the sword will excel when cutting down crowds, theWellspring Gemwill reward you for playing to its strengths.
While the sword has some aerial attacks, it’s not as reliant on these as some other weapons, so the theVortex Gemis only suitable if you favour Battle Arts that toss enemies up into the air.
Recommended Battle Arts
You will need one Special Battle Art equipped - identified by a [Sp.] in their name - to block officer attacks, so will need to make a choice here.Palm Strikecosts just one Bravery, so is almost always going to be available, butAbsconding Strikecosts three Bravery, but is a better move with greater use than just interrupting orange attacks.
If you takeAbsconding Strike, thenAerial Retributionis a great one Bravery Battle Art to have instead. However, this just springs you up to strike after being hit, and you may be hit twice by a combo, rendering it useless. All things considered, we suggestPalm Striketo keep your options open.
Aside from that,Falcon Furyis a great Battle Art as it drives into crowds, which is exactly where swords are at their best, and costs three Bravery.Mad Blade Rush, costing two Bravery, is another excellent choice.
The rest will depend on your needs.Dispersion Arrowcosts four Bravery, but when held down can deal the widest damage of any art, while the one BraveryShadowless Bladefocusses on a single enemy, making it best for taking on generals.
Once you max out sword proficiency, the five Bravery cost ofShadow Danceis well worth it to clone yourself briefly in battle.
