Dynasty Warriors: Origins – Should You Pick Cao Cao, Liu Bei, Or Sun Jian In Chapter 3?

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While Dynasty Warriors: Origins maintains linear progression through most of its campaign, Chapter 3 introduces a critical branching path that demands strategic consideration. This guide addresses the pivotal decision between supporting Cao Cao, Liu Bei, or Sun Jian—a choice that shapes your entire playthrough. Note: This content includes minor narrative spoilers regarding faction mechanics.

Our comprehensive Chapter 3 faction selection guide provides essential knowledge for navigating this complex decision point. We break down the contribution system mechanics, explain the implications of advancing time, and clarify when your allegiance becomes permanently locked. Understanding these systems prevents unexpected roadblocks and ensures you join your preferred warlord’s forces.

As Chapter 3 commences in Dynasty Warriors: Origins, you’ll receive notification about the emerging power struggle between three major warlords. Their identities display continuously in your interface’s top-left corner, accompanied by distinctive diamond-shaped indicators.

These visual markers track your “contribution count”—specifically how many story missions you’ve completed while aligned with each leader’s army. Failing to meet specific contribution thresholds before progressing will permanently prevent you from joining that faction later in your campaign.

Here’s the essential intelligence you need for successful faction alignment in this critical chapter:

• Cao Cao’s streamlined path demands just one contribution: participation in the Suppression of Yan Province. This makes him ideal for players seeking rapid progression.
• Liu Bei’s balanced approach requires two key engagements: the Battle of Jieqiao followed by the Battle of Beihai.
• Sun Jian’s comprehensive commitment needs three separate operations: Assault on Nanyang, Siege of Fan Castle, and Battle of Xiangyang.

Pro Tip: Sun Jian’s lengthier requirement often provides superior character development opportunities and additional resource accumulation, though it demands more time investment.

Once you complete the necessary battles to maximize contributions with a particular faction, that group’s commander materializes on your strategic map. Conversing with them triggers the “time advancement” sequence, moving the narrative forward significantly.

Critical Warning: As emphasized previously, progressing without fulfilling specific battle prerequisites permanently excludes you from joining that warlord’s faction. This mechanic prevents last-minute switching and encourages deliberate planning.

Avoid This Common Mistake: Many players prematurely advance time after completing only one faction’s requirements, accidentally locking themselves out of other potential alliances. Complete all desired battle participations before initiating any leader conversations.

Your Chapter 3 faction selection carries profound consequences throughout the remainder of your Dynasty Warriors: Origins experience. Each warlord offers distinctive narrative arcs, unique character interactions, and specialized mission types in subsequent chapters.

Cao Cao’s Path: Focuses on tactical warfare and political maneuvering, ideal for players who enjoy strategic combat scenarios.

Liu Bei’s Route: Emphasizes heroic narratives and righteous campaigns, perfect for those seeking classic heroic storytelling.

Sun Jian’s Campaign: Centers on territorial expansion and naval operations, suited for commanders preferring diverse battlefield types.

For comprehensive guidance on mastering game mechanics similar to faction selection systems, consult our Complete Guide to advanced gameplay strategies.

Your decision influences available character rosters, weapon specializations, and even ending variations. Consider your preferred playstyle—whether you favor rapid assaults, balanced tactics, or methodical expansion—when committing to a faction leader.

No reproduction without permission：SeeYouSoon Game Club » Dynasty Warriors: Origins – Should You Pick Cao Cao, Liu Bei, Or Sun Jian In Chapter 3? Strategic guide for choosing Cao Cao, Liu Bei, or Sun Jian in Dynasty Warriors: Origins Chapter 3 with battle requirements and consequences