Sword
Ground Moveset
- : Bashes forward with the sword pommel in tandem with an elbow bash to break through the foe's guard.
- , : Slashes the enemy into the air, jumps up, and strikes them back down.
- , , : Slashes horizontally a few times, stunning the opponent.
- , , , : Sends forth a horizontal air wave.
- , , , , : Stabs into the ground and sends the nearest foes flying.
- , , , , , : Spins around clockwise while performing a half-circular swing to the front, creating a shockwave to knock down opponents.
- , , , , , : Does two overhead swipes before turning around, followed by two more swings that set into the front arc, a frontal stab, and a wider swipe.
- Dashing : Jumps forward while slashing the opponent.
- , : A downward swipe.
- Dash: Rolls forward in the air once.
- Switch Attack: Sends forth a diagonal air wave. Can be used to cancel attacks in Next.
Horse Moveset
- : An anticipated swing to the right side, then another to the left.
- , , , , , : Six swings to the right side.
Changes
- Dynasty Warriors 8
- , : Flips around in mid-air before diving down and stabbing the earth to produce fissures.
- Storm Rush: Inflicts multiple swipes in front of the enemy, ending the assault with a spinning slash.
- Switch Counter: Dodges incoming assault and retaliates with a two-hit spin attack.
- Shin Sangoku Musou Blast
- Normal Attack: Swings sword in a broad angle three times, with each swipe releasing an energy wave traveling forward.
- Charge Attack 1: Inflicts two wide slashes while rotating diagonally. The Blast version adds an extra slash while slightly increasing attack coverage.
- Charge Attack 2: Triggers a minuscule explosion by stabbing the ground. The Blast version causes a pillar of flame to rise up from the impact of the attack.
Fighting Style
The sword moveset is considered to be the jack-of-all-trades of this game since almost every character has this weapon at their disposal with either a two-star or three-star skill level. It has moderate range, relatively good attack speed, and is extremely user-friendly. C3 is the most recommended for one-on-one duels and combo-making, while C4 and C6 are quick, albeit small, crowd-clearers. C5 is useful for some last-resort surprise attacks (as well as combo building, like C3), and C2 makes it easy to link with some characters' aerial Musou attacks.
Rapier
Ground Moveset
- : Grabs the enemy and pushes them forward. Does very little damage, but is useful in breaking the enemy's guard.
- , : A quick lunge followed by an upward slash.
- , , : A very quick series of diagonal slashes. Enemies attacked by the first will be unable to escape the full combo.
- , , , : A horizontal slash which sends opponents flying.
- , , , , : Does three quick lunges forward.
- , , , , , : Sends an energy wave forward. This attack can break the enemy's guard.
- , , , , , : A quick combo made up of thrusts and slashes.
- Dashing : Hits foe while dashing forward.
- , : Does a quick lunge in mid-air.
- Dash: Rolls forward while in the air.
- Switch Attack: Sends forward countless energy lunges. Can cancel strong attacks in Next.
Horse Moveset
- : Does one lunge to the left.
- , , , , , : Does five jabs to the left and ends with three more stabs, only more powerful than the previous ones.
Changes
- Storm Rush: Does multiple jabs followed by a twirling slice that unleashes several slash marks upon the target.
- Switch Counter: Backs down before unleashing a quick short thrust forward.
Fighting Style
A fighting style comprised mostly of lunges, the rapier is one of the least accurate movesets in the game. It is useful in crowd fights because the player does not have to focus on precision, but is very ineffective against officers due to its weak attacks. However, its speed is useful when cornered as it covers all areas around the player.
War Fan
Ground Moveset
- : Flings out a wind blast forward that turns into a stationary tornado when it impacts a surface.
- , : Flings out a fiery explosion on the ground.
- , , : Summons lightning bolts within a small area.
- , , , : Sends forth a thin beam of energy.
- , , , , : Sends out a ball of wind forward that launches enemies up into the air.
- , , , , , : Sends forth three large energy beams.
- , , , , , : Sends out six wind blasts via continuous fan swipes in a row, while stepping forward for each one.
- Dashing : Swings fan in a leaping inward turn for a wind blast that knocks down.
- , : Shoots three lasers on the ground, causing fissures to erupt. Each shot can be aimed at different directions.
- Dash: Flips forward in mid-air.
- Switch Attack: Sends out a stationary tornado to attack nearby foes. The tornado effect is omitted in Next, though it can be used to cancel attacks despite its very short range.
Horse Moveset
Changes
- Dynasty Warriors 8
-
- Note: All motions are now done with the fan in the user's right hand instead of their left hand.
- , : Waves fan and creates a short gust of wind damaging enemies below.
- , : Previous air attack from seventh game.
- Storm Rush: Waves fan continuously, enveloping the user within a violent gust of wind.
- Switch Counter: Unleashes a powerful twister to repel opponents.
- Shin Sangoku Musou Blast
- Normal Attack: Unleashes three chains of wind at the opponent.
- Charge Attack 1: Generates a tornado that remains stationary for a brief moment of time. The Blast version enlarges the tornado and causes it to move at a slow pace.
- Charge Attack 2: Summons two small lightning bolts. The Blast version causes three pillars of lightning to rain down four times on a designated position.
Fighting Style
The war fan Moveset is heavily influenced by Zhuge Liang's movesets in all prior installments. It consists of medium-close ranged attacks consisting of air gusts (each with a small knockback effect) and thunder-based magic strikes which generally serve as crowd-clearers. Its main weakness is the relatively obvious openings between attacks despite its medium speed. A secondary weapon which strikes fast and leaves few openings is recommended.
Twin Swords
Ground Moveset
- : Slashes downwards with both swords. Stuns the enemy.
- , : Jumps while alternately slashing with both swords. Launches the enemy as well as the user.
- , , : Twirls both swords in front, then stabs with both of them simultaneously. Dizzies the enemy.
- , , , : A double spinning slash.
- , , , , : Stabs both swords into the ground, sending an air wave forward that launches enemies upward.
- , , , , , : A turning horizontal slice. If it connects, the user stabs the enemy before finishing up with a slash to the legs. It cannot be blocked.
- , , , , , : Six alternating slashes with both swords.
- Dashing : Jumps forward while rapidly spinning with both swords.
- , : Launches several jabs diagonally downward before releasing a cross-shaped energy wave.
- Dash: Rolls forward in the air while holding swords on both sides.
- Switch Attack: Emits a shockwave to knock away nearby opponents. In Next, the attack is an angular spinning slash used for canceling attacks and building combos.
Horse Moveset
- : Swings swords simultaneously on both sides.
- , , , , , : Sends out six small air waves to the left side.
Changes
- Dynasty Warriors 8
- , : Swipes both swords in a cutting motion.
- , : Previous air attack from seventh game.
- Storm Rush: Slashes repeatedly back and forth before thrusting both swords forward.
- Switch Counter: Steps back and does an outward cross slash.
- Shin Sangoku Musou Blast
- Normal Attack: Unleashes three consecutive energy waves towards foes.
- Charge Attack 1: Performs multiple alternating swings accompanied by a powerful thrust. The Blast version inflicts more damage while including additional swings.
- Charge Attack 2: Leaps up and stabs the ground to cause a minor tremor. The Blast version causes bolts of lightning to spread out in a fan formation once the user lands.
Fighting Style
The moves of this weapon are taken directly from Liu Bei's Dynasty Warriors 6 moveset, with the attacks mixed together to match the charge attack system. Compared to other weapons, the twin swords' attack power is relatively weak, but makes up for it by having nearly every attack hit twice. Overall, it is an excellent weapon for clearing crowds thanks to its extremely powerful C4 and dashing attack. It loses much of its usefulness against officers, as it is very difficult to juggle with this weapon, but it is nonetheless still powerful.
Spear
Ground Moveset
- : Spins spear around within a full radius while finishing up with a pose on the left knee, breaking the opponent's guard. Can be held down to deal more damage and cannot be phased by attacks (with the exception of Musou attacks). Deals little damage.
- , : Strikes upward with blunt end of spear. If it connects, the user will continue to spin around the opponent, strike their legs, and send them flying to the air. The user then smashes the opponent down on the ground.
- , , , (): Stabs quickly three times before doing a dashing strike to the right. Pressing again will cause the user to add more stabs to the attack.
- , , , : Pulls back and shoots a narrow energy wave across the ground. If is held down, the user will send a wider arced energy wave instead.
- , , , , : Will swiftly charge spear up and down, emitting a large ground explosion and send opponents airborne.
- , , , , , : Executes a half-circular strike from right to left while also emitting a radial shockwave around the user. If is held down, the user will swing to the right instead. This version is more powerful and generates a much larger shockwave.
- , , , , , : Strikes to the left while simultaneously crossing the right foot between the left. The user crosses their legs back to normal while striking to the right, then swings directly from left to right before launching a frontal hit.
- Dashing : Dashes forward and strikes to the right.
- , : Jumps and sweeps from right to left in the air.
- Switch Attack: Plants spear into the ground and swings forward, causing a supposed dropkick into scissoring the opponent's neck with feet used as an anchor. From here, the user extends their spear at full length and spins around counter-clockwise within a wide radius before slamming the victim into the ground with a headscissors takedown by doing a somersault. It resembles Zhao Yun's deadlock attack from Dynasty Warriors 6. The move loses its grappling quality in Next, though it can be used to cancel strong attacks.
Horse Moveset
Changes
- Dynasty Warriors 8
- Holding : User performs a stronger spin attack imbued with the cyclone element.
- , , , Holding : User performs a sweeping spin motion that shoots out a blade of energy.
- , , , , , Holding : User performs a charge thrust followed by a circular slash. This is taken from Jiang Wei's C6 in Warriors Orochi 3.
- Storm Rush: Stabs forward repeatedly, ending the attack with a final thrust.
- Switch Counter: Dodges incoming attack in time for a quick strike forward.
- Shin Sangoku Musou Blast
- Normal Attack: Swings spear three times in a row.
- Charge Attack 1: Twirls spear upward, generating a protective tornado; once the twirling ends, the wielder follows it up with a leaping overhead swing. The Blast version produces a more violent tornado and increases swing's hit range.
- Charge Attack 2: Dives forward at high speed. The Blast version has the wielder deliver repeated thrusts and a diagonal swipe right before the dive attack.
Fighting Style
This moveset is a slightly modified version of Zhao Yun's moveset from Dynasty Warriors 6 and shares many of the same strengths and weaknesses. A good overall style for beginning players to use, it is highly mobile with good crowd clearing attacks, decent speed, and range.
Pike
Ground Moveset
- : Sends forth an air wave along the ground, breaking the enemy's guard.
- , : Hits the nearest enemy with rear end of weapon. It if connects, the victim will be struck by the blade end before being tossed into the air. Cannot be blocked.
- , , , (): Two leaping spin slashes followed by a horizontal slash, stunning the enemy. Can be done twice in a row.
- , , , : A mighty left-to-right slash forward.
- , , , , : A small hop followed by a downward chop.
- , , , , , : Twirls weapon overhead, then a diagonal slash upward.
- , , , , , : Does six alternating swipes from left to right.
- Switch Attack: Slams the ground with rear end of pike, brings down the nearest enemy, then violently lifts weapon upward to throw the downed victim into the air. Can be canceled with another hit string in Next.
Horse Moveset
- : Swings vertically to the right and left.
- , , , , , : Launches several vertical slices six consecutive times.
Changes
- Dynasty Warriors 8
- , : Spins around in the air before slamming the ground with enough might to produce fissures.
- Storm Rush: Swings weapon diagonally back and forth, unleashing a piercing strike at the end of the attack.
- Switch Counter: Dodges attack before countering with two or more twirling slashes and a wide frontal swing.
- Shin Sangoku Musou Blast
- Normal Attack: Slices the opponent three times.
- Charge Attack 1: Launches a shockwave traveling on the ground. The Blast version sacrifices the shockwave's speed in exchange for more power.
- Charge Attack 1 (Zhu Huan): Does a round swing to the left. The Blast version has a wider swing and release two fireballs; one of the fireballs moves away in one direction while the other follows the wielder.
- Charge Attack 2: Performs a spinning slash followed by a wide frontal swipe. The Blast version adds a second spin while slightly increasing the range of each slash mark.
- Charge Attack 2 (Zhu Huan): Spins around and releases an energy wave. The Blast version creates a stronger energy wave that quickly travels at a farther distance.
Fighting Style
The pike is a modified version of the polearm moveset in Dynasty Warriors 6, though it also carries similarities to the spear moveset. It now boasts a stronger square chain and like the spear moveset is relatively user-friendly and has good range. However, it suffers from a somewhat slow attacking speed and has few knockbacks.
Double Voulge
Ground Moveset
- : Pounds the ground in front with one end of the weapon, breaking the guard of nearby foes.
- , : An uppercut with the left-hand blade.
- , , : A series of zig-zagging slashes done while moving forward. Ends with a stab with the right-hand side of blade.
- , , , : A semi-circular heavy slash into the front arc with the right-hand blade.
- , , , , : Spins weapon violently like a propeller to the front.
- , , , , , : Twirls weapon overhead, ends with a fierce right-to-left slash forward.
- , , , , , : Three alternating slashes from both blades, ending with a spinning slash.
- Switch Attack: A half-circular right-to-left slash. Can be used to cancel attacks in Next.
- Switch Effect: User's attack range temporarily increases when switched to this weapon.
Horse Moveset
- : Slashes diagonally to the right and left.
- , , , , , : Twirls voulge diagonally from left to right repeatedly.
Changes
- Storm Rush: Unleashes multiple cuts by twirling weapon continuously. The user then proceeds to roll in the air and pound the ground.
- Switch Counter: Jumps back and repels opponent by stabbing the ground.
Fighting Style
The double voulge moveset is heavily influenced by Wei Yan's movesets prior to Dynasty Warriors 6. It consists of mediocre crowd clearing abilities with its C1 to C4 moves, while the C5 is an excellent one-on-one officer killer (since every one of its spins is elemental). Its C6 is good for crowd control, allowing the user to break out of massive flocks of enemies.
Great Sword
Ground Moveset
- : Swings sword aside to break guard. Hold to perform an overhead smash.
- , : Raises weapon upward before pausing.
- , , : Slams sword's front edge towards opponent.
- , , , : Sends forth a mighty air wave.
- , , , , : Slams the ground with enough force to lift up enemies.
- , , , , , : Raises sword to perform a shockwave, followed by a powerful wave of air.
- , , , , , : Unleashes three revolving slashes, a ground slam, and two powerful swipes.
- Switch Attack: Does an overhead chop. Can be charged for greater damage. The attack loses its charge feature in Next, though it can be used to cancel attacks instead.
- Special Effect: After performing any strong attack, holding down will activate either C4 or C5.
Horse Moveset
Changes
- Storm Rush: Spins around with enough force to produce a whirlwind. The attack ends with the user chopping the ground.
- Switch Counter: Steps back and launches an upward arcing slash.
- Special Effect: When performing any strong attack holding , then releasing when sword is behind the user will cause them to slash horizontally and release a wave of energy. Continuing to hold past the mid mark will end the attack with an overhead smash instead.
Fighting Style
Throwing Knives
Ground Moveset
- : Smashes the ground to trigger a weak explosion.
- , : Kicks the opponent into the air.
- , , : Throws three fans of paralyzing knives into opponents.
- , , , : Kicks the enemy away.
- , , , , : Smashes the ground to send enemies flying upward.
- , , , , , : Fiercely throws two fans of daggers onto the opponent.
- , , , , , : Pelts enemies with five knives in a row several times.
- Dashing : Throws knives in the air, kicks them when falling down onto the opponent.
- , : Throws two fans of knives down to the opponent.
- Dash: Rolls forward while in mid-air.
- Switch Attack: Sends a fan of daggers that daze any nearby enemies. In Next, the attack staggers foes instead and can also be used to cancel strong attacks.
Horse Moveset
- : Hurls an array of knives from both sides.
- , , , , , : Throws daggers down at opponents from the left side.
Changes
- Storm Rush: Rapidly chucks a shower of knives towards nearby opponents, finishing the barrage by tossing more knives within the user's front view.
- Switch Counter: Tumbles back before throwing multiple knives in a fan formation.
- Shin Sangoku Musou Blast
- Normal Attack: Hurls three knives in a row thrice.
- Charge Attack 1: Throws an array of five knives twice in succession. The Blast version releases red-colored knives that do more damage.
- Charge Attack 2: Slams the ground hard. The Blast version causes the wielder to toss a knife that generates a wide gravity field to knock surrounding foes away.
Fighting Style
The throwing knives moveset is quick and strong at mid-range and short-range combat. Not only does it offer excellent combo capabilities, its attacks can easily fill up the Musou gauge. Unfortunately, the throwing knives are not good to use if the player is surrounded at all sides as it lacks strong knockback attacks and generally only hits enemies in the front. This leaves users of this moveset highly vulnerable to attacks from behind. It also has a hard time breaking blocks and guards but can easily juggle opponents if they are already airborne.
Chain & Sickle
Ground Moveset
- : Rolls forward and makes an anticipated throw to the front. If it hits an enemy, the user will slash at their ankle.
- , : Flails sickle upward.
- , , : Rams shoulder forward.
- , , , : Does four wide criss-cross slashes to the front, ending the attack with a stronger slash forward.
- , , , , : Wraps chain around a small group of enemies, violently yanks them upwards, then creates a small explosion that sends them all flying.
- , , , , , : Launches sickle diagonally to attack foe.
- , , , , , : Lands two frontal slashes against the enemy before hurling sickle in varying directions.
- Dashing : Throws the sickle out to the front, causing a small spinning slash.
- , : A downward swipe while leaping in the air.
- Dash: Rolls forward in the air.
- Switch Attack: Leaps into the air and comes back down, sending forth an air wave which stuns all enemies caught in its path. Can be used while being attacked by enemies. Next changes the move into a crouching overhead swing capable of canceling strong attacks.
Horse Moveset
- : An anticipated swing to the right side, then to the left.
- , , , , , : Six rotating swings to the right side.
Changes
- Storm Rush: Flails weapon back and forth several times, sending it out at the end of the attack.
- Switch Counter: Flips back into the air before sending out energy waves upon landing.
Fighting Style
While the chain and sickle has great range, its large sweeping swings can leave gaps in the user's attack through which an enemy can take advantage of at higher levels. It also does not provide full coverage. Thus, it works best when equipped together with a fast-striking or wide-ranged secondary weapon.
Flail
Ground Moveset
- : An anticipated throw into the front arc. Breaks the enemy's guard.
- , : Turns once and hits an enemy upwards.
- , , : Does two anticipated diagonal swings.
- , , , : A small hop followed by a ground smash.
- , , , , : Grabs the nearest foe, twirls them around, and slams the ground with enough force to send the victim airborne.
- , , , , , : Hooks up enemies in the front. If a single enemy is caught, the user swings weapon in an overhead fashion and slams them to the ground. If more than one foe is hooked up, they will be swung overhead and tossed away instead.
- , , , , , : Spins flail back and forth, twirls it around further, slams the ground, and thrusts it forward.
- Switch Attack: Sends forth an air wave along the ground. Can cancel strong attacks in Next.
Horse Moveset
Changes
- Dynasty Warriors 7 Empires
- , , : Swings flail upwards, then slams it down on the ground at full force.
- , , , : Turns body in the air at an angle and then spins around, slamming the flail head into the ground and repeating the process with each consecutive jump. can be mashed to extend the attack to 5 slams total.
- , , , , , : Flail grapples onto enemies and spins around multiple times. user then jumps up into the air as they fling the grappled enemies into the air.
- Dashing : Twirls flail around users body while still running a short distance. can be mashed to extend the run and add additional swings.
- Shadow Sprint: Performs a short flying kick.
- Storm Rush: Spins weapon around several times, slamming it unto the earth at the end of the assault.
- Switch Counter: Evades attack before swinging weapon towards the enemy.
- Shin Sangoku Musou Blast
- Normal Attack: Strikes at the enemy back and forth before launching a gyrating blow.
- Charge Attack 1: Spins forward twice, striking the ground during the first turn and swinging diagonally at the end of the move. The Blast version adds more ground strikes, causing the user to travel further than usual.
- Charge Attack 2: Swings flail in a circular motion, then slams it unto the earth. The Blast version adds fire to the attack and causes fissures to erupt during the final hit.
Fighting Style
In Dynasty Warriors 7: Empires, the flail gains a change in attacks to match the fighting style of its new EX owner Gan Ning.
Club
Ground Moveset
- : Rolls forward knocking any foes in the way.
- , : Flings the nearest opponent into the air.
- , , : A double spinning swing done counterclockwise followed by a clockwise swing.
- , , , : Sends enemies flying with a strong swing.
- , , , , : Grabs the nearest enemy and throws them up in the air, swinging them away upon their descent.
- , , , , , : Does a mighty overhead smash on the ground.
- , , , , , : Slams weapon on the ground, thrusts three times, launches a swing, and does another slam.
- Switch Attack: Swings at full strength, sending an air wave traveling along the ground. Can be used in the middle of performing other attacks in Next.
Horse Moveset
Changes
- Storm Rush: Pounds the earth multiple times.
- Switch Counter: Rolls backwards before hopping forward and launching a quick overhead swing.
Fighting Style
The club moveset is a modified version of the mace moveset found in Dynasty Warriors 6. It has moderate range, but its moves are slow and unwieldy even with characters who have maximum proficiency ratings for the weapon. C3 is the most commonly recommended move as it can quickly build up combo hits. Its strong attacks have a chance of sending an enemy flying away, though this may be a disadvantageous for those who wish to build up decent combo chains.
Nunchaku
Ground Moveset
- : Two bashes and a punch. Has guard-breaking properties.
- , : An uppercut swing, sending the nearest enemy upwards.
- , , : Launches rapid kicks down to up and accompanies it with a rising uppercut.
- , , , : Performs a roundhouse kick, then an anticipated swing to the front.
- , , , , : A few heavy swings into the front arc, then jumps and performs a roundhouse kick.
- , , , , , : Does a spinning bash forward, then leaps up time to perform a frontal swipe.
- , , , , , : Executes multiple swipes in varying angles.
- Dashing : Releases a cutting wave to the front with a turning smack, then sends out another.
- , : Sends a cutting wave downwards with an outward swat. Halts aerial momentum unlike other normal midair attacks.
- Dash: Rolls forward while leaping in mid-air.
- Switch Attack: Sends forth two diagonal air waves. Can be used to follow-up strong attacks in Next.
- Switch Effect: User's attack speed temporarily increases when switched to this weapon.
Horse Moveset
Changes
- Storm Rush: Flails weapon around several times, repelling affected enemies by the end of the assault.
- Switch Counter: Somersaults back before unleashing two hits and a single kick.
Fighting Style
Staff
Ground Moveset
- : Does a quick forward spin kick.
- , : Lifts one end of the staff upwards, knocking enemies into the air.
- , , , (): Runs forward while twirling the staff to both sides twice before finishing with a stunning spin kick. Activates elements on the final blow.
- , , , : Turns around, then quickly strikes twice horizontally. Activates elements.
- , , , , : Spins and jumps upward while striking horizontally with the staff, launching both foe and user into the air. Activates elements.
- , , , , , : Leaps in a spin to sweep-swing a large cutting wave forward. Activates elements.
- , , , , , : A series of spinning and twirling strikes. The final blow activates elements.
- Dashing : Does a quick low horizontal swing.
- , : By pressing twice, the user strikes diagonally upward four times in a row, then nosedives into the ground to trigger a small tremor.
- Dash: Spins around once while in the air.
- Switch Attack: A quick sweep-strike to the left aimed diagonally downwards. Can also be performed while in the air where the user will instantly land on the ground. In Next, the attack has attack-canceling qualities though it cannot be used in mid-air combat anymore.
Horse Moveset
Changes
- Storm Rush: Swings staff in front of the enemy repeatedly before leaping up in time to strike at them.
- Switch Counter: Turns around backwards and attacks opponent with a few horizontal twirls.
Fighting Style
The staff is based on Zhou Yu's moveset from Dynasty Warriors 6. It both covers a large area and is relatively fast, making it a good choice for clearing crowds. The staff also has surprisingly high attack power and is quite powerful against officers. The only disadvantages lie in the quirky hitboxes some attacks seem to have, particularly the fourth and fifth part of the attack string. It is not rare to miss enemies with these attacks because of the high position of the hitbox. It is therefore advised to fight enemies either on level or from lower ground.
Gloves
Ground Moveset
- : Clangs both fists together to produce a small shockwave, breaking the enemy's guard.
- , : Grabs the nearest foe and tosses them into the air.
- , , : Grabs the nearest enemy, swings them around, then tosses them away.
- , , , : Holds onto the nearest enemy by the ankles, spins twice on the spot, then tosses them away.
- , , , , : Jumps onto the nearest enemy, and slams them to the ground with the help of the character's legs.
- , , , , , : Grabs the nearest foe, pounds them twice (once to the front and once to the back) on the ground (with each pound generating a shockwave), then tosses them out.
- , , , , , : Does four alternative hook punches, one minor ground smash, and a straight punch.
- Dashing : Grabs the nearest enemy by the shoulders, vaults over them, and slams the victim to the ground.
- , : Reaches down to grab a foe, somersaults in mid-air, and hurls them away.
- Switch Attack: Punches forward with both fists, sending forth an air wave. Can also be performed while airborne. Although the attack loses its aerial function in Next, it can be used to cancel non-grappling attacks.
Horse Moveset
Changes
- Storm Rush: Punches surrounding enemies repeatedly, ending the combo by thrusting both fists forward simultaneously.
- Switch Counter: Dodges attack before countering by forcefully pushing the enemy back.
- Shin Sangoku Musou Blast
- Normal Attack: Punches at the opponent three times.
- Charge Attack 1: Dashes forward like an animal and claws at approaching enemies before landing violently on the ground. The Blast version prolongs the dashing part of the move.
- Charge Attack 2: Shakes fist momentarily before striking the earth with enough force to cause a tremor. The Blast version causes the cracks of the impact to produce smaller fissures for more coverage.
Fighting Style
The glove moveset has short range, but it boasts the most numerous grapple attacks among all weapons from C2 all the way to C6. Every one of these grapple attacks are, as with all grapples within this series, unblockable by any opponent. Therefore it is regarded as a very effective close-range weapon with moderate attack speed.
Bow
Ground Moveset
- : A swift leaping inward roundhouse kick with the right leg that pierces through the enemy's defense with slowed hitstun.
- , : Fires an arrow on the ground in a one-legged stance which emits a launching quake.
- , , : Fires a directed stunning arrow at an enemy in a low posture shot, akin to Huang Zhong's old C3 from the fourth and fifth installments.
- , , , : Fires a barrage of arrows in a row from left to right. Inflicts crashing knockback.
- , , , , : Jumps up with a backflip and fires an arrow to the ground that causes a launching-away quake.
- , , , , , , (): Shoots a volley of arrows that rain down above the closest enemy targets, while the second input fires an extra rain of arrows surrounding the player.
- , , , , , : Fires three arrows in a fanning arrow per shot for each input, with the last input being a delayed shot that knocks down. Warriors Orochi 3 converts the finishing shots into being blue aura homing arrows instead that split in accordance to the amount of targets in range.
- Dashing : Leaps forward with a diving-jump-in kick with the left leg.
- , : Fires an arrow to the ground diagonally.
- Dash: Backflips forward while jumping.
- Switch Attack: Backflips in midair and shoots in down in front for an arrow to the ground. Attack is always ice elemental regardless of the original weapon, though Next omits it in favor of canceling strong attacks at will. Changed back to the original version in the eighth installment.
Horse Moveset
- : Shoots an arrow upward, and it comes down as a fiery rain of arrows around the player.
- , , , , , : Fires exploding arrows from the left side of the horse.
Changes
- Dynasty Warriors 8
- Note: Every grounded arrow attack that is fired forward is now fired in accordance to the user's elevation level.
- , , : Same as before, only a volley of multiple arrows are fired at once which gives it more overall area-of-effect.
- , , , , , : Same as before, though only the initial input may have a chance to not fire any arrows should it be conflicted via target priority.
- , , , , , : Same as before, only the arrow on the final input only appear when there are enemy targets within a specific range of the user; otherwise, the hitbox is nonexistent. Now only fires a single piercing white aura shot on the final input.
- , : Flips in midair and fires two shots of arrows diagonally down to the ground. Unlike its Warriors Orochi 3 version, it now fires 5 arrows per shot in a fanning pattern, while also carrying much more aerial momentum compared to other jumping charge attacks.
- Storm Rush: Fires a volley of arrows continuously before releasing a more powerful shot towards the opponent.
- Switch Counter: Hops back and shoots at the enemy while sliding down on the floor.
Fighting Style
The bow moveset incorporates many attacks from its previous incarnation and has a good range and moderate knockbacks. However, it renders the user immobile and most of its charge attacks are only moderately powerful. C6 is the most commonly suggested move for area clearing, thoug smart usage of its dashing function can allow for deft players to easily re-position themselves with ease, as it excels in full-frontal combat.
Shaman Rod
Ground Moveset
- : Sends forth a beam of light across the ground, breaking the guard of any foe caught in it.
- , : Slams the ground once to create a small fiery shockwave.
- , , , (): Strikes the ground twice to create two fiery explosions. The first explosion stuns enemies, and the second one sends them flying.
- , , , : Sends forth several targeting projectiles that explode on contact.
- , , , , : Sends forth a short but wide beam of light.
- , , , , , : Raises weapon overhead and releases a semi-circular shockwave to the front, sending nearby opponents flying. Has fire elemental properties.
- , , , , , : Does a quick jab, four quick strikes, then raises rod to conjure a bolt of lightning.
- Dashing : Performs a forward flip while slamming rod against the ground, knocking nearby enemies into the air.
- , : A downward swipe done while leaping in the air.
- Dash: Rolls forward while leaping in the air.
- Switch Attack: Slams rod on the ground to produce a dozen orbs of light following the user and exploding shortly. In Next, the impact of the rod causes it to trigger a small explosion instead, causing fire damage and canceling attacks instantaneously.
Horse Moveset
- : Raises weapon overhead and sends a shockwave to each side.
- , , , , , : Swings to the left side six consecutive times.
Changes
- Storm Rush: Produces multiple geysers rising in different spots before sending out more to repel enemies away from the area.
- Switch Counter: Steps back and retaliates by conjuring an explosion in front of the user.
Fighting Style
Iron Fan
Ground Moveset
- : Conjures a quick unblockable whirlwind, leaving the enemy stunned for several seconds.
- , : Thrust fan upward, swinging the target upward along with it.
- , , : Throws fan outwards and low to the ground, stunning the target. Afterwards, the fan returns after spinning around the player, hitting more surrounding enemies.
- , , , : Causes the fan to travel around the user, knocking away nearby opponents.
- , , , , : Conjures a massive whirlwind, sending enemies as well as the player into the air.
- , , , , , : Stuns and grabs a foe with an unblockable attack while spinning around while showered in flower petals, then knocks them in the back of the head.
- , , , , , : Repeatedly swipes with the edge of fan in a dancing motion until the sixth hit knocks the target down.
- Dashing : Throws fan a short distance ahead of the user, knocking any enemy out of the way.
- , : A short swift attack aimed at an enemy on the ground.
- Dash: Turns around once while jumping.
- Switch Attack: Throws the fan a short distance away; it will spin in place to create a temporary whirlwind which will then juggle any opponent caught within it. Can be used in conjunction with the harp's attack string to produce traveling sound waves. In Next, a short-ranged air wave is hurled instead, though it can be used to cancel attacks.
Horse Moveset
- : Tosses fan downward to the right, where it spins on the ground from right to left before returning to the user.
- , , , , , : Does multiple quick swings to the right.
Changes
- Dynasty Warriors 8
- , , , , , : User jumps up and throws fan down towards grounded foes at an angle. Taken from Xiaoqiao's moveset in Warriors Orochi 3.
- Storm Rush: Flings weapon back and forth. At the end of the assault, the user jumps forward and does a round slash against the victim.
- Switch Counter: Flips back and performs an aerial somersault attack.
- Shin Sangoku Musou Blast
- Normal Attack: Smacks the opponent with round swipes.
- Charge Attack 1: Throws fan in a circular motion; travels counter-clockwise while lifting foes caught in its path. The Blast version adds more speed and coverage.
- Charge Attack 2: Spins into the air at a slanted angle to juggle enemies. The Blast version traps the victim within a petal whirlwind that remains in place for several seconds before disappearing.
Fighting Style
The iron fan moveset is one of the weaker movesets in the game, primarily due to the lack of range in its normal attack string and low weapon attack power. Charge attacks are mediocre at best. Nonetheless, it is an overall balanced moveset with one-on-one attacks (normal attacks, C2, and C6) as well as crowd clearing moves (C3, C4, and C5). Its most useful move is C5, which serves as both an area attack and an escape maneuver. Its C4 is also an excellent officer-killing attack when coupled with the lightning element and several offensive seals.
In Dynasty Warriors 8, the iron fan has been decreased in size while gaining a greater increase in attack speed. It now generates small blades of air around the fan when striking to increase weapon range.
Sword & Shield
Ground Moveset
- : Rams enemy with shield.
- , : An uppercut attack using the shield.
- , , : Does four overhead slashes that end with a shield ram.
- , , , : A shield uppercut followed by a diagonal sword slash.
- , , , , : Shield guards user's front as they propel themselves skywards.
- , , , , , : Throws shield into the air and does a strong horizontal slash with sword.
- , , , , , : Does two overhead slashes, a shield ram, and a diagonal slash followed by a rising shield bash. The final hit is a frontal stab that ejects a wave of energy forward.
- Dashing : Boomerangs the shield into the front arc.
- , : Dives from a considerable height and smashes shield unto the ground, colliding against nearby foes below.
- Dash: Flips around in mid-air while jumping.
- Switch Attack: If the user is switching to this weapon, the character will raise their shield. Using this weapon to switch causes the character to instead perform a quick shield bash forward. Next turns the move into an air wave attack traveling at close-range, also giving it the ability to cancel strong attacks (except for C5) at will.
- Switch Effect: Switching to and from this weapon temporarily increases the user's defense.
Horse Moveset
- : Throws shield to have it boomerang around horse.
- , , , , , : Inflicts a series of sword slashes to the right.
Changes
- Storm Rush: Inflicts numerous slashes back and forth before ramming target with shield.
- Switch Counter: Stands back momentarily before lunging forward.
- Shin Sangoku Musou Blast
- Normal Attack: Swipes sword twice before hitting target with shield.
- Charge Attack 1: Does an ascending swing at the enemy using both shield and sword while turning around. The Blast version generates a slow-moving shockwave capable of inflicting heavy damage against nearby enemies.
- Charge Attack 2: Performs several slashes followed by a sudden shield ram. The Blast version raises the attack's overall potency, knocking more foes than ever.
Fighting Style
Flying Swords
Ground Moveset
- : A quick forward slash using all swords.
- , : An uppercut which sends the enemies flying.
- , , : Tries to stab an enemy with one sword. If the attack succeeds, the other swords immediately follow suit, resulting in major damage.
- , , , : Does a sideward slash from both left and right, using two swords for each side.
- , , , , : Jumps forward surrounded by all swords.
- , , , , , : Causes swords to charge forward, then while returning to the user, also hit any foe from the rear.
- , , , , , : A quick combo that ends with five lunges at the same time.
- Dashing : A quick diagonal slash.
- , : Nosedives on the ground with all swords surrounding the user.
- Dash: Spins in the air once.
- Switch Attack: Swords rotate while flying forward, slashing those nearby. In Next, the attack causes a large energy sword to rise from the ground, knocking foes off balance.
Horse Moveset
Changes
- Dynasty Warriors 8
- , : Causes swords to swing to the right while leaping.
- , : Previous air attack from seventh game.
- Storm Rush: Coordinates the swords to move in a slicing motion repeatedly before unleashing them forward.
- Switch Counter: Evades incoming attack by leaping back and aiming swords at the assailant.
- Shin Sangoku Musou Blast
- Normal Attack: Uses all five swords to perform three round slashes.
- Charge Attack 1: Pokes an enemy using all five swords. The Blast version extends the attack by revolving the swords around the wielder to juggle nearby enemies.
- Charge Attack 2: Performs a horizontal corkscrew spin, then leaps into the air with all swords pointed upward. The Blast version adds more speed and power.
Fighting Style
Halberd
Ground Moveset
- : Raises weapon upward with both arms to release a small whirlwind effect that breaks through guards. A variation of Lu Bu's original C1 from the third installment.
- , : Performs a scooping slash to the right with both arms. Based on his original →, → + /Release ↓ + , from the first installment or his second installment C2. Can activate elements.
- , , , (), (): A series of right-handed flailing slashes to the right per step forward, before a final two-handed swing to the right that stuns and can activate elements. An inverted-motion version of Lu Bu's C3 from the fourth and fifth installments.
- , , , : An upward diagonal slash to the right that sends enemies flying with crashing knocbkack. Activates elements.
- , , , , : Stabs the nearest enemy and rapidly twirls spear at them via a criss-crossing pattern. The user impales them again to hook them onto the spear before slamming the victim to the floor, which causes a launching tremor. The first part counts as a grab only at close range, but far range will cause knocback to occur while guard-breaking instead. Activates elements on both the stab and the quake.
- , , , , , : Does an upward diagonal slash to the right akin to C2, followed by two pairs of criss-cross slashes to the front, and follows it up with a large radial shockwave from a battle roar that guard breaks and activates elements. A variation of Lu Bu's original C6.
- , , , , , : An outward flailing strike, inward crossing swing, downward chop, another outward swing, inward crossing swing, before a final strike akin to C4 that activates elements. All motions are done single-handed with the user's right hand.
- Dashing : Swings weapon from right to left via an overhead flailing motion. Can be used to gain a small bit of height upon being executed.
- , : Slashes outward while in mid-air vertically downward.
- Switch Attack: A mighty horizontal slash to the front which causes foes to stumble until the crumple to the ground. Can be fully charged to add a cutting wave that can travel along surfaces. The attack loses its charge feature in Next, though it can be used to cancel non-grappling attacks instead. Charging stage will be at stage 1 whenever it is released during an EX Attack.
- Switch Effect: Switching to this weapon temporarily raises the user's attack speed and movement speed, while also causing afterimages to trail them (indicated by an empowering pose), but will instantly wear off when weapon switching.
Horse Moveset
- : An anticipated swing to the right, then another one to the left.
- , , , , , : Does six strong swings to the right.
Changes
- Dynasty Warriors 8
- , , , , : Same as before, only the final quake slam has less range overall.
- , : Same as before, only the user now gains a small bit of height upon executing the attack.
- , : Swings weapon unto the ground for a small quake.
- Switch Attack: Same as before, and can be charged up once more.
- Storm Rush: Unleashes several slashes continuously, finishing the attack with a fierce one-handed thrust.
- Switch Counter: Pauses momentarily before knocking away opponents with a single overhead swing.
- Shin Sangoku Musou Blast
- Normal Attack: Strikes the closest enemy three consecutive times.
- Charge Attack 1: Begins the attack with an ascending swing, followed by several criss-crossing slashes done diagonally and a powerful war cry. The Blast version extends the second phase of the attack while increasing the war cry's range.
- Charge Attack 2: Repels opponents by performing three circular slashes, with the last one knocking them back. The Blast version includes an additional slash while slightly increasing the attack's overall range and speed.
Fighting Style
The halberd moveset is loosely based on Lu Bu's movesets prior to Dynasty Warriors 6. It grants the user with a great range (since it is, unlike other polearms in the installment, used by only one hand) decent strength, and a combination of both good officer killing and crowd clearing moves. It is noted that when switched to this weapon, the character's strength and speed are temporarily increased to allow maximum proficiency of usage.
Twin Axes
Ground Moveset
- : Raises both axes upward to create a small cyclone.
- , : Swings axes up in the air.
- , , : Stabs a single enemy with right-hand axe. If it connects, the user proceeds to impale the victim with the other axe, leaving them in a stunned state.
- , , , : Slashes both axes forward, sending a wave of energy.
- , , , , : Jumps in the air and slams the ground to produce a shockwave.
- , , , , , : Swings both axes greatly in a clockwise formation before repeating the process counterclockwise.
- , , , , , : A string of round frontal swings and spinning swipes.
- Dashing : Slashes at opponent while dashing forward.
- , : Swings both axes to the user's sides while in mid-air.
- Switch Attack: Slashes both axes at once to send out a large shockwave. Despite losing the shockwave effect in Next, it can be used to cancel strong attacks and is also affected by elemental orbs.
Horse Moveset
Changes
- Storm Rush: Performs alternating swings followed by a spinning slash at the end for good measure.
- Switch Counter: Dashes back before thrusting both weapons forward.
- Shin Sangoku Musou Blast
- Normal Attack: Swings axes one at a time, turning around once while unleashing the last hit.
- Charge Attack 1: Launches an air wave traveling within a considerable distance. The Blast version increases the attack's width and potency.
- Charge Attack 2: Hops upward before stabbing both weapons on the ground to cause a minor tremor. The Blast version creates more fissures for further damage.
Fighting Style
Lance
Ground Moveset
- : Drills the ground.
- , : An upward swing.
- , , : A polevault kick done clockwise.
- , , , : Runs forward with lance held forward, then skids to a stop with another thrust.
- , , , , : Holds lance near the ground, then performs a spin attack that knocks enemies high into the air.
- , , , , , : Drills upwards, then lightly jumps in time to slam weapon unto the opponent.
- , , , , , : Does two spins, a thrust, another full spin, and two drilling stabs.
- Dashing : Thrusts drilled lance at a considerable distance.
- , : Stabs the ground with enough impact.
- Switch Attack: Dashes forward while holding lance in one hand. Can be charged for a lengthier and more powerful effect. The attack loses its charge feature in Next, though it can be used to cancel attacks instead.
Horse Moveset
Changes
- Storm Rush: Lunges upward several times in a row, ending the attack with a round slash that momentarily produces a whirlwind.
- Switch Counter: Counters enemy attack by stepping back and thrusting lance forward.
- Shin Sangoku Musou Blast
- Normal Attack: Does two hefty swings followed by a short thrust.
- Charge Attack 1: Delivers an ascending slash that sends foes airborne. The Blast version includes a upward drill thrust that severely damages the target.
- Charge Attack 2: Impales the opponent while charging forward. The Blast version adds an explosive effect at the end of the attack.
Fighting Style
The lance is the only moveset that allows the user to break an opponent's guard with just its square chain. Although slow, its moves can be used to build up decent combos while severely damaging foes in the process.
Twin Rods
Ground Moveset
- : Does a short charge with both rods in front.
- , : Swings upward.
- , , : Does multiple jabs and strikes.
- , , , : Stabs both rods forward, launching forth a small whirlwind.
- , , , , : Pounds the ground with enough force to send out a mobile shockwave.
- , , , , , : Holds the nearest foe between both rods and jumps up while hurling them into the air. The user then pounds them upon landing, causing a shockwave to erupt on the ground.
- , , , , , : Six alternative strikes with the rods.
- Switch Attack: Slams the ground in front of the user. Can be used for cancelling attacks in Next.
Horse Moveset
Changes
- Storm Rush: Smacks enemies with a barrage of powerful swings, hurling them away with a multi-hitting thrust.
- Switch Counter: Hops back and counters with a quick cross swing.
- Shin Sangoku Musou Blast
- Normal Attack: Strikes at the opponent three times in succession.
- Charge Attack 1: Creates a small tremor by slamming the ground. The Blast version causes multiple fissures to travel forward from the attack's point of impact, damaging more enemies along the way.
- Charge Attack 2: Uses one rod to thrust forward and another to swing downward, with each hit releasing a wave of energy towards the target. The Blast version causes both waves to travel faster and inflict more damage.
Fighting Style
Axe
Ground Moveset
- : Does a forward jab to break the opponent's guard.
- , : Launches enemies upward via uppercut.
- , , : A heavy horizontal slash to the front.
- , , , : Boomerangs axe forward.
- , , , , : Does a double overhead spinning slash into the front arc.
- , , , , , : Smashes the ground to produce a small shockwave.
- , , , , , : Delivers three diagonal slashes, two circular swipes, and an axe toss forward.
- Switch Attack: Throws axe forward, causing it to swirl a few times around the character. Can be charged for additional swirls. In Next, the move's charge feature is removed in exchange for the ability to cancel attacks instead.
- Switch Effect: When switched to this weapon, the user will automatically boomerang it with every normal attack for a limited period of time.
Horse Moveset
Changes
- Storm Rush: Swings fiercely back and forth repeatedly before throwing weapon forward like a boomerang.
- Switch Counter: Dodges enemy assault and attacks by performing a quick overhead swing.
Fighting Style
Curved Sword
Ground Moveset
- : Pulls sword from its sheath, then twirls it while turning around to resheath it, damaging nearby opponents.
- , : Knocks the target upward with sheath for a launch. Can follow up with a series of extremely quick slices in reverse grip by pressing again.
- , , : Turns once, swatting the enemy with sheath, then stabs them with it to stun them momentarily. Knocks back on airborne hit and also has elemental activation.
- , , , : Violently unsheathes the sword in a forward left-legged step to inflict crashing knockback. A slight variation of Zhou Tai's original C4 and has elemental activation.
- , , , , : Steps forward while turning, and unsheathes sword for a diagonal vertical slash that launches away. Activates elements.
- , , , , , : After a delay, rushes forward while drawing out blade once for five hits, then points sword towards the ground, knocking all nearby foes away with crashing knockback. Activates elements on the final hitbox.
- , , , , , : A quick-draw slash, inward cutting slash forward, leaping turn-around 180 slash to the right, landing outward slash, inward one-handed reap, finishing with a low-clearing outward slash that knocks back and activates elements.
- Dashing : Spins once while slashing with sword in a quick re-sheath.
- , : Dives towards the ground. Upon reaching the ground, the user swiftly delivers two consecutive diagonal slashes; the second slash re-sheathes the blade.
- Dash: Spins at a diagonal angle once while in the air.
- Switch Attack: Turns around for a back-handed outward drawing slash that releases multiple slash marks within the vicinity. Can be charged for more damage, where stage 2 unleashes a wide cutting wave that knocks back, while stage 3 unleashes two consecutive cutting waves in a criss-cross fashion that slightly launch. In Next, the attack only produces one slash mark, but it can be utilized as an attack-canceling move. Charging stage will be at stage 1 whenever it is released during an EX Attack.
Horse Moveset
- : Launches a focused left slash followed by a lighter strike to the right.
- , , , , , : Swings back and forth several times.
Changes
- Dynasty Warriors 8
- , : Twirls blade while descending and drives it unto the earth to cause a downed-target-hitting tremor. Hits the ground via a launch.
- Switch Attack: Same as before, and can be charged once more. The final charge level of the move possesses elemental activation on both cutting waves.
- Storm Rush: Unleashes numerous slashes coming from different directions. The user ends the attack by dashing forward to repel all affected targets.
- Switch Counter: Backs away before repelling assailant with a sudden flash emitted from the user's weapon.
Fighting Style
The curved sword moveset is based on Zhou Tai's movesets from Dynasty Warriors 4 and 5, only altered in motion and stance. It is extremely fast and comprises of crowd clearing attacks. It also suffers from a lack of pure strength, which is somewhat made up by its fast attack speed.
However, in the eighth installment, its Switch Attack is arguably the easiest-to-use elemental activation attack in the game, since Switch Attacks are unblockable by default which does not require the use of Cyclone to enhance damage.
Claws
Ground Moveset
- : Spins elegantly to prepare a horizontal slash.
- , : Ducks low for a dual slash before following up with a leaping spin attack.
- , , : Delivers four quick scratches to the front before doing dual crouching slashes.
- , , , : A lunging dual slash.
- , , , , : User hurtles forward and spins their entire body upside down. While airborne, the user spins their body like a top for four circular slashes before landing with a crouching diagonal swipe.
- , , , , , : Does two quick crouching slashes followed by a butterfly kick. Lands with a diagonal slash.
- , , , , , : Begins the attack with three diagonal cuts using one claw at a time. The second part has the user spin into the air for two individual slashes before slicing horizontally with both claws to the front.
- Dashing : A quick slash from the left claw.
- , , , : Does two downward slashes from both claws followed by a somersault kick.
- Dash: Rolls forward in mid-air with both arms outstretched.
- Switch Attack: Lunges forward with both claws, creating a wave of air along the way. Can be used for cancelling attacks in Next.
- Switch Effect: If the user is switching into this weapon, they will perform the second part of the weapon's C2.
Horse Moveset
- : Clutches one end of the saddle and spins the user's entire body twice to the left.
- , , , , , : A series of alternating slashes done back and forth.
Changes
- Storm Rush: Claws at the enemy multiple times, leaping up afterwards to unleash an acrobatic strike.
- Switch Counter: Evades incoming attack via backflip and surprises opponent with a leaping cross hit.
- Shin Sangoku Musou Blast
- Normal Attack: Claws at the enemy thrice in a row.
- Charge Attack 1: Performs a series of spinning slashes during a forward flip, then unleashes a wide swipe upon landing. The Blast version enhances the attack's range and damage output.
- Charge Attack 2: Attacks nearby foes with a cross swipe followed by a whirlwind-producing uppercut. The Blast version has the user ascend further into the air, allowing them to pin down enemies via drilling motion.
Fighting Style
The claw is essentially a modified version of Zhang He's moveset from Dynasty Warriors 6: Special. It is highly unpredictable and requires time to master. All of its attacks put more strength on the very last blow in the chain, and the highly unpredictables moves makes it very easy to lose a target in unskilled hands. However, its high speed and rate of attack can still be useful for combo building.
Tonfa
Ground Moveset
- : An uppercut with the right tonfa.
- , : Flings left tonfa upward, sending the target airborne.
- , , : A stronger strait jab with the right tonfa.
- , , , : A stronger left hook with one tonfa, then a right hook with the other.
- , , , , : Jumps and pounds the floor with both tonfas, causing a shockwave.
- , , , , , : Punches the nearest enemy. If it hits, a series of quick jabs with both tonfas is followed, and ends with a roundhouse kick.
- , , , , , : Five alternative strikes with both tonfas, ends with jab from the left one.
- Switch Attack: Launches a short multi-hitting jab, a minor ground slam, and a much larger smash. The multi-hitting strike is omitted in Next, though the attack is now capable of canceling attacks.
- Special Feature(s): All charge attacks and their effects are cancellable by pressing the button.
Horse Moveset
- : Swings both tonfas upward before raising right fist upward.
- , , , , , : Does several strikes to the right.
Changes
- Storm Rush: Beats opponents several times with one tonfa before using the other to inflict a multi-piercing thrust attack.
- Switch Counter: Takes a step back and counters with a short swing against the attacker.
- Shin Sangoku Musou Blast
- Normal Attack: Delivers a three-hit combo at the opponent; the attack includes two swings and a roundhouse kick.
- Charge Attack 1: Performs a flying kick towards the enemy within a considerable distance. The Blast version causes the user to be enshrouded in flames while unleashing the attack.
- Charge Attack 2: Jumps into the air before slamming the ground, causing tremors to erupt around the impact. The Blast version produces small explosions traveling at a short distance, scattering enemies caught within the blast.
Fighting Style
Based on Sun Ce's Dynasty Warriors 5 moveset, the tonfas feature more variation in range and style of attacks. The weapon comes with a special effect that enables the user to cancel all strong attacks by tapping , making it an ideal tool for racking up combos. It also has fewer clear openings than the earlier tonfa moveset. However, it can be hard to learn to use effectively. Not recommended for beginners.
Crossbow
Ground Moveset
- : Does a spinning kick.
- , : Shoots an exploding bolt on the ground.
- , , , (): Does a spinning kick that dizzies the opponent. If is pressed twice, the user will shoot bolts to the front afterwards.
- , , , : Shoots a directed group of bolts to the front.
- , , , , : Shoots four groups of bolts respectively to the left and right side, then to the front and the back.
- , , , , , : Shoots an energy wave to the front.
- , , , , , : A series of six identical shots consisting of several bolts fired simultaneously.
- Dashing : Shoots a group of bolts to the front, paralyzing opponents.
- , : Shoots a small group of bolts to the ground.
- Switch Attack: Fires shot towards the ground, triggering a minor explosion. Can be used to cancel attacks in Next.
Horse Moveset
- : Shoots a large bolt to the right, then another one to the left.
- , , , , , : Shoots six groups of arrows consecutively to the right side.
Changes
- Dynasty Warriors 8
- , : Shoots a volley of bolts below a group of enemies. Will only fire if foes are present.
- Storm Rush: Fires a hail of bolts in front of the enemy continuously, before reloading weapon for one final shot.
- Switch Counter: Hops back and fires several bolts within the user's line of vision.
- Shin Sangoku Musou Blast
- Normal Attack: Fires a crossbow bolt three times in a row.
- Charge Attack 1: Shoots three bolts traveling in a fan formation. The Blast version releases larger bolts and enhances the wielder's next shots for a brief period of time.
- Charge Attack 2: Performs a single shot at four different directions in a particular order: front, right, left, back, and front again. The Blast version unleashes larger bolts and empowers the wielder's next shots for a few seconds.
Fighting Style
The crossbow moveset is highly immobile and vulnerable to crowds and rear attacks as much of the time the player stands in place shooting their weapon. Users of this weapon should avoid crowds whenever possible and utilize the fighting style's long ranged attacks. A secondary weapon with strong knockbacks would be good to use with this moveset to gain a comfortable shooting distance.
Starting in Dynasty Warriors 7: Xtreme Legends, the crossbow is given a considerable upgrade. Strong attacks that require the user cock the crossbow after firing will create doubles of themselves; with these clones, the player will shoot three volleys of arrows with every attack until they dissipate.
Wheels
Ground Moveset
- : A simple kick, does very little damage.
- , : Tosses one wheel upwards to launch the enemy, then throws the other to knock them away.
- , , : Throws both wheels out to the back, does a cartwheel while the wheels fly forward, then comes back to hit the opponent from behind.
- , , , : Throw both wheels out to rapidly circle self, knocking any foes close by.
- , , , , : Similar to the C4, except that the wheels spiral upward, launching enemies into the air.
- , , , , , :
- , , , , , : Inflicts a series of slashes with the wheels. The sixth hit throws both of them forward.
- Dashing : Quickly throw both wheels forward.
- , : Throw both wheels out to rapidly circle self on a diagonal orbit.
- Dash: Rolls around in the air once.
- Switch Attack: Throws the wheels a short distance away where they spin in place and slice any enemies nearby. The wheels do not spin as much in Next, though it can be used while performing strong attacks.
Horse Moveset
- : Causes wheels to circulate from behind the user.
- , , , , , : Throws weapons downward back and forth on different sides.
Changes
- Dynasty Warriors 8
- , , : Similar to its previous incarnation, but both wheels no longer loop around the user but travel forward instead.
- Storm Rush: Tosses weapons within a short distance one at a time followed by a dashing slash motion.
- Switch Counter: Performs a backflip and does an angular spinning slash towards the enemy.
- Shin Sangoku Musou Blast
- Normal Attack: Tosses three burning wheels in a row, hitting foes within a short distance before returning to their wielder.
- Charge Attack 1: Hurls both wheels forward, causing them to spin around parallel to one another. The Blast version causes the wheels to burst into flames while producing small whirlwinds.
- Charge Attack 2: Orbits both weapons around the user to create a protective tornado. The Blast version increases the tornado's potency and causes it to leave a small wall of fire in its place.
Fighting Style
The wheels are more or less balanced with the first three charge attacks focused on tackling a single opponent while C4 and C5 are good crowd clearers. Its only problem is its mediocre range which confines it to short or mid-ranged combat.
Chain Whip
Ground Moveset
- : Slams whip unto the ground.
- , : Jumps at a low altitude and swings whip diagonally.
- , , : Makes several somersaults while whipping the opponent at an upright angle.
- , , , : Knocks opponents away by creating an energy wave on the ground.
- , , , , : Slides on the ground forward while swinging whip around oneself.
- , , , , , : Does a pirouette while emitting a petal whirlwind around the user, kicking nearby foes away.
- , , , , , : Makes two horizontal strikes to the left and right, a few more quick hits, and one sudden frontal strike to the left.
- Dashing : Does a long horizontal strike to knock enemies away.
- , : An aerial horizontal attack to the right.
- Dash: Flips forward while leaping in the air.
- Switch Attack: Kneels down and thrusts whip towards an opponent. If it connects, the target will be stunned and have their health drained by the user. The attack loses its life-draining function in Next, but it can be used to cancel specific strong attacks.
Horse Moveset
- : Flails whip from right to left while on horseback.
- , , , , , : Slams whip downward towards the right side.
Changes
- Dynasty Warriors 8
- , : Twirls around before touching the ground, attacking enemies with a spinning slash upon landing.
- Storm Rush: Whips foes several times, causing air currents to trail each swing. The user then strikes the ground at the end of the attack.
- Switch Counter: Spins back once to avoid an attack before spinning again to knock away foes.
- Shin Sangoku Musou Blast
- Normal Attack: Lashes at the enemy three times in succession.
- Charge Attack 1: Launches an upward strike while leaping about. The Blast version causes the user to swing multiple times before releasing a petal whirlwind via slide. The whirlwind remains in place for a few seconds, damaging foes caught within its range.
- Charge Attack 2: Makes several somersaults while whipping the target repeatedly. The Blast version provides more attack power and range.
Fighting Style
This weapon is a good crowd clearer with its C4 to C6 combos and can easily be used for dueling with the C3 attack alone. However, the moveset largely leaves the player vulnerable to attacks from behind. The whip also sports a life-draining move which can be very useful in difficult battles when used against weaker enemies.
Spinner
Ground Moveset
- : Steps forward in time for an uppercut.
- , : Lowers spinner downwards as it extends wire, cutting foes to the front before returning.
- , , : Performs a full circular spin with wire extended. Lets it spin its blades in front before recalling it.
- , , , : Leaping cartwheel that ends with horizontal swing.
- , , , , : Bashes nearby foes with weapon. Spins and unleash it from its wire for a underhanded swing.
- , , , , , : Five diagonal swings with wire extended. Extends spinner to the front for one final blow.
- , , , , , : Four horizontal swings with the spinner being recoiled each time. The user rolls forward whilst swinging the spinner around them horizontally. Finishes with a stronger horizontal swing.
- Dashing : Flails extended spinner to the front.
- , : Extends spinner downwards, causing the user to momentarily hover in the air.
- Dash: Rolls around in mid-air once.
- Switch Attack: A short-ranged swing which knocks any nearby enemies into the air. In Next, the attack is a tackle that staggers foes and cancels strong attacks.
Horse Moveset
- : Does an extended swing from left to right.
- , , , , , : Swings back and forth while extending spinner.
Changes
- Storm Rush: Flails weapon around in front of the opponent and causes it to mow on the earth after leaping once.
- Switch Counter: Turns away before retaliating by swinging spinner towards the enemy.
Fighting Style
Arm Cannon
Ground Moveset
- : Fires a single shot upward, capable of breaking the enemy's guard.
- , : Lifts enemies up by swinging weapon heavily.
- , , : Fires a chain of shots to the front.
- , , , : Hits the front with an exploding effect.
- , , , , : Fires an explosive shot into the floor in front of user.
- , , , , , : Fires chained shots to the front, finishing the barrage with a bigger, exploding one.
- , , , , , : Does four hits followed by a roundhouse kick.
- Switch Attack: Launches an explosive projectile forward. Can be charged for a more powerful explosion. This move is given attack-canceling qualities in Next. Charging stage will be at stage 1 whenever it is released during an EX Attack.
Horse Moveset
Changes
- Storm Rush: Strikes at the opponent multiple times before firing a shower of bullets to repel them.
- Switch Counter: Moves back and spins towards the enemy twice.
Fighting Style
This moveset tends to use short-ranged attacks using the cannon as a blunt weapon with only a few moves utilizing long-ranged shots. It has several knockback attacks for both direct and indirect assaults, but it is slow and leaves the user's back vulnerable. Players should preemptively try to plan their attacks ahead while using this weapon.
Brush
Ground Moveset
- : Scribbles brush to the front before performing a quick high swing. Conjures three whirlpools of ink to levitate forward. Explodes with painted tigers if the user does not ignite them.
- , : Hops and scribbles with brush downwards, following up with a rising swing. Explodes orbs of ink nearby.
- , , : Scribbles brush to the left, right, and front of user before performing a strong horizontal swing. Conjures two whirlpools of ink to levitate forward which eventually explode into painted qilin if the user does not ignite them.
- , , , : A downward swipe. Detonates orbs of ink nearby.
- , , , , : Smashes brush into ground before scribbling the air to unleash two ink orbs forward. Explodes with painted fenghuang if the user does not ignite them.
- , , , , , : The users rotates in a circle and brushes the air, sending four whirlpools of ink forward. Explodes with painted dragons if the user does not ignite them.
- , , , , , : Does five diagonal swings to the front. Smears ink in front of user to create a painted dragon.
- Dashing : Holds brush back as user scribbles lightly, then swings to form a painted tiger.
- , : Swings weapon downward while in the air.
- Switch Attack: Brushes weapon to the right before unleashing a whirlpool of ink forward. It later emerges with a damaging dragon doodle. In Next, the attack is simply used to create more ink for the user to ignite and can also be used for cancelling attacks.
Horse Moveset
- : Two inked slashes to the left and right of saddle.
- , , , , , : Unleashes a series of downward swings to the right side.
Changes
- Dynasty Warriors 8
- , : Produces two ink balls that erupt into dark pillars decorated with tiger images.
- Storm Rush: Creates several tiger ink pillars to erupt from the ground continuously. The user completes the attack by shooting three ink balls that burst into qilin images.
- Switch Counter: Dashes back before attacking the enemy with an ink pillar made in the image of a dragon.
- Shin Sangoku Musou Blast
- Normal Attack: Hits the opponent with simple strokes.
- Charge Attack 1 (Man Chong): Does a broad swing to the right. The Blast version conjures four fiery projectiles that steadily travel at different directions.
- Charge Attack 2 (Man Chong): Strikes the ground hard to produce a small shockwave. The Blast version creates a larger shockwave and releases three purple electric spheres that move in a fan formation.
Fighting Style
Flute
Ground Moveset
- : Creates a sound wave which dazes nearby opponents.
- , : Kicks opponent up in the air.
- , , : Creates a stronger sound wave which stuns nearby enemies.
- , , , : Slides forward creating a strong sound wave.
- , , , , : Emits a small tornado to launch enemies up into the air.
- , , , , , : Creates two sound waves followed by a sound wave-ball launched towards the opponent.
- , , , , , : Swats at the enemy twice, hits them with two roundhouse kicks, and releases two sound waves in a row.
- Dashing : Twirls flute before slowing down.
- , : Swings weapon while in mid-air.
- Dash: Rolls forward once while jumping in the air.
- Switch Attack: Emits a powerful sound wave to stun enemies close by. Afterwards, small orbs will constantly appear around the user and explode. Can be charged up to prolong the appearance of each orb and increase maximum damage. Next turns this attack into a traveling sound ball that staggers foes instead. It is also given attack-canceling qualities to make up for its narrow range. Charging stage will be at stage 1 whenever it is released during an EX Attack.
Horse Moveset
Changes
- Dynasty Warriors 8
- , : Emits a small sound wave that juggles nearby enemies before ejecting them away via larger one. Also affects fallen foes.
- Storm Rush: Produces several geysers rising at random spots. The user completes the attack by releasing a large sound wave on the ground.
- Switch Counter: Counters the enemy by playing a tune that generates sound waves and random geysers.
- Shin Sangoku Musou Blast
- Normal Attack: Fires three sound spheres in a row.
- Charge Attack 1: Emits a radial sound wave while sliding forward. The Blast version releases five sound spheres within a frontal arc, eventually bursting into sound waves after a few seconds.
- Charge Attack 2: Hurls a torrent of spheres that erupt into sound waves upon landing around the user's vicinity. The Blast version slightly increases the attack's trajectory and enlarges the sound waves created.
Fighting Style
Harp
Ground Moveset
- : Flips harp with both hands to produce a sound wave.
- , : Kicks the opponent into the air.
- , , : Conjures several small sound balls in front, followed by a bigger one paralyzing the opponent.
- , , , : Creates a sound wave which dashes enemies away.
- , , , , : Creates a sound wave to hurl enemies in the air.
- , , , , , : Sends forth a massive sound ball to the front.
- , , , , , : Shoots a series of six small sound balls that produce sound waves when touched by enemies.
- Dashing : Slides forward while creating a sound wave.
- , : Does a front flip before landing roughly on the ground, emitting an explosion of sound around the user.
- Dash: Turns around once in mid-air.
- Switch Attack: A powerful sound wave surrounds the player, dazing any opponents hit by it. Can be used for cancelling attacks in Next.
Horse Moveset
- : Shoots sound balls to the right and left.
- , , , , , : Plays harp to produce a damaging sound wave multiple times.
Changes
- Dynasty Warriors 8
- , : Strums harp to produce small sound waves traveling to the ground.
- , : Previous air attack from seventh game.
- Storm Rush: Conjures multiple energy geysers to sprout within the user's vicinity.
- Switch Counter: Turns back from an incoming attack and swats opponent away.
Fighting Style
The harp moveset is strong at close range as players can easily juggle opponents. There is some slight lag time between attacks and can leave players vulnerable to back attacks. So long as players are not too heavily surrounded from behind, it is a decent moveset for crowd clearing nearby opponents. The moveset also incorporates some mobility and players can easily keep their distance and hit from afar.Dagger Axe
Ground Moveset
- : Stabs the weapon's head forward while spinning the curved blade attached to it to damage enemies and break their guards.
- , : Throws the nearest enemy upward.
- , , : Spins weapon to the front.
- , , , : Hooks up a group of enemies, swings them overhead, and smashes them to the floor. Cannot be blocked.
- , , , , : A stab with the butt end of the weapon, then a clockwise swing upward, hooking up and throwing some enemies into the air.
- , , , , , : A counterclockwise spinning swing, dragging several enemies in the process, then another clockwise swing to throw them out.
- , , , , , : Launches an upper swipe, a round horizontal slash to the left, a light thrust, and three more horizontal swings.
- Dashing : A full degree spinning swipe forward that ends with an upward slash.
- , : A downward swipe while in mid-air.
- Switch Attack: Latches unto the nearest foe and slams them on the ground. The attack is merely an upward swing with the ability to cancel non-grappling moves in Next.
Horse Moveset
- : Pulls and hold the dagger down to the left, grabs enemies along on contact, then swings them up to the right.
- , , , , , : Slashes diagonally on the left multiples times in a row.
Changes
- Storm Rush: Swings heavily back and forth before tossing weapon forward in a boomerang-like fashion.
- Switch Counter: Takes a step back before countering with a powerful horizontal swing.
Fighting Style
Bombs
Ground Moveset
- : Smashes the ground and detonates pre-set bombs.
- , : Throws a bomb upward.
- , , : Throws a few bombs into the front, then kicks another into the enemy.
- , , , : Throws five bombs in a fan shape formation into the front arc.
- , , , , : Hurls a small exploding fire ball to the front, then spins once and sets five bombs around the user.
- , , , , , : Plants a bomb on the nearest enemy, pushes them away, then punches the ground to detonate it.
- , , , , , : Throws several bombs forward from left to right.
- Dashing : Lobs a bomb within arcing distance, stunning any foe in its path.
- , : Throws a pair of bombs downward.
- Switch Attack: Uses bombs to create an explosion at close-range. In Next, this move can also be used to detonate other planted bombs and cancel other strong attacks in the process.
Horse Moveset
- : Scatters six bombs on the ground, causing them to explode upon contact.
- , , , , , : Tosses several bombs back and forth.
Changes
- Dynasty Warriors 8
- , : Tosses two bombs unto the ground, causing them to detonate and launch nearby foes into the air.
- Storm Rush: Smacks enemies numerous times before kicking a detonating bomb at their direction.
- Switch Counter: Backs off in time to throw a bomb at the attacker.
- Shin Sangoku Musou Blast
- Normal Attack: Throws three bombs in one direction.
- Charge Attack 1: Plants a bomb into the earth, causing it to immediately explode a few steps away from the user. The Blast version increases the explosion's radius while leaving behind an active bomb in its place. The bomb can only detonate if an enemy steps on it or if the Blast version of this attack is used once more.
- Charge Attack 2: Sends out a massive fireball traveling at a considerable distance. The Blast version unleashes three fireballs spreading out in a fan formation.
Fighting Style
Short Pike
Ground Moveset
- : Twirls weapon overhead, creating a cyclone around the user.
- , : Sends forth an air wave along the ground.
- , , , (), (): Spins weapon to the front, then stabs once. Two more spins can be done each time the button is pressed.
- , , , : Tosses weapon forward, then rams shoulder into opponents to close the gap between them and the grounded weapon.
- , , , , : Smashes the ground to produce a shockwave.
- , , , , , : Grabs the nearest foes, runs for a short distance holding them, and unleashes an ascending swing.
- , , , , , : Swings diagonally from lower right to upper left, then slashes to the right followed by an overhead strike. The second half of the attack sequence consists of an ascending vertical slash, a diagonal spin, and a round swing to the front.
- Dashing : A full half-circular swing of the weapon performed at full force.
- , : Slashes beneath opponents.
- Switch Attack: Charges forth and swings weapon before tossing it upward like a boomerang.
Horse Moveset
Changes
- Dynasty Warriors 7 Empires
- EX Attack: , , : Stabs weapon unto the ground to produce a shockwave.
- Musou - Earthsplitter (白天殺): : Slashes weapon diagonally and leaps up into the air to stab the ground with enough impact to cause tremors.
- Alternate Musou - White Flash (白閃葬): R1 + : Spins weapon around before releasing a massive ground shockwave.
- Dynasty Warriors 8
- : Strikes the ground while vaulting into the air. The charged version has the user grapple the nearest enemy before vaulting in the air at a higher altitude and slamming them unto the floor.
- , : Launches enemies upward by stabbing the ground. The charged variation of this move has more range and damage output.
- , , : Slams weapon unto the earth while raising leg upward, dizzying nearby enemies. The charged form releases a radial shockwave.
- , , , : Remains the same like in the previous title. The charged variation of this move has the user produce a tremor from tossing the weapon and producing a dash effect while closing the gap. The user is also surrounded by a repelling force when charging this particular attack.
- , , , , : Causes weapon to spin vertically within very short distance, launching enemies high up in the air. During the charged version of this move, the user powerfully slams the ground to send opponent airborne before releasing waves of energy to knock them down.
- , , , , , : Identical to its previous form in the previous title, but adds a radial shockwave at the end. The charged version allows the user to dash much longer before emitting a much larger shockwave.
- Storm Rush: Swings multiple times, sending out streams of violent winds forward.
- Switch Counter: Steps back and repels opponent with a single swipe.
Fighting Style
Due to the lack of having an official user in Dynasty Warriors 7: Empires, the short pike becomes a special weapon for edit characters with EX and Musou attacks included.
In Dynasty Warriors 8, the short pike's moveset has been altered considerably. It now has a new ability which allows the user to perform different and more powerful moves by holding down while using charge attacks on the ground.
Mace
Ground Moveset
- : An overhead smash
- , : Knocks an enemy upward.
- , , , (), (): Stabs forward with the butt end of the weapon, then does a swing from right to left. Two more stabs can be performed each time is pressed.
- , , , : A stronger counterclockwise swing.
- , , , , : A small hop followed by an overhead smash stronger than C1.
- , , , , , : Swings counterclockwise to send forth a vertical whirlwind, then jabs forward to create a horizontal one.
- , , , , , : Two counterclockwise swings, followed by a clockwise swing, then repeat.
- Switch Attack: Does a round swing before hopping about and striking the ground. Next removes the first part of the attack, though it can be used to cancel current moves and initiate another hit string.
Horse Moveset
Changes
- Storm Rush: Launches a barrage of powerful overhead swings before slamming the floor with enough force to produce a tremor.
- Switch Counter: Steps back before repelling attacker with a frontal stab.
Fighting Style
Great Axe
Ground Moveset
- : Performs a lunging charge with axe protecting the user's torso.
- , : Hooks up a few enemies in the front and sends them airborne.
- , , : An overhead swing that ends with axe being driven to the ground.
- , , , : Does a full spinning slash.
- , , , , : Spins like a top twice and lands with a a ground smash.
- , , , , , : Does a circular swing before throwing captured opponent upwards.
- , , , , , : Executes an overhead swing before user holds axe low and spins twice. The next two hits consist of a diagonal swing and a horizontal swipe. The attack ends with a grounded slash that sends affected enemies flying.
- Dashing : Delivers an anticipated slash at the enemy's midsection.
- , : Swings weapon at a low angle while in mid-air.
- Switch Attack: Swings axe once to build inertia for a heavy diagonal swing. Next omits the move's initial phase, though it can be used to cancel non-grappling attacks.
Horse Moveset
- : An anticipated swing to the right, then to the left.
- , , , , , : Swings six consecutive times at the right side.
Changes
- Storm Rush: Spins around several times while wielding weapon, ending the assault with a sudden slam on the ground.
- Switch Counter: Backs away before doing an overhead swing on the target.
Fighting Style
Pugil Stick
Ground Moveset
- : Causes a weak explosion of energy on the ground while jumping backwards in the air.
- , : Emits a short-ranged wave of energy towards the front.
- , , , (): Shoots several small balls of energy to the front, followed by a powerful burst dazing the enemies. Pressing a second time causes the user to jump back during the magical explosion.
- , , , : Shoots multiple balls of energy in a semi-circular form in front of the user.
- , , , , , (): Spins around creating a whirlwind around the user to suck in enemies. Pressing a second time creates a second whirlwind.
- , , , , , : Jumps up into the air and spins, shooting off multiple balls while spinning.
- , , , , , : Fires several magical projectiles in front of the user.
- Dashing : Does a somersault while firing a short-ranged wave of energy to the front.
- , : Shoots two balls of energy towards the ground while floating in mid-air, dashing on the ground afterwards.
- Dash: Hovers forward while leaping in the air.
- Switch Attack: Creates a magical seal which knocks enemies away.
Horse Moveset
- : Fires two projectiles that land on both sides and burst into small rays of light.
- , , , , , : Sends down two projectiles from left to right multiple times.
Changes
- Dynasty Warriors 8
- , : swings wands towards the ground, sending out a single blast of energy that explodes when hitting a target or the ground.
- , : Previous air attack from seventh game.
- Storm Rush: Twirls around continuously, surrounding the user within a violent tornado. The attack ends with a cross swing knocking affected enemies away.
- Switch Counter: Hops back and retaliates with three shots sent forward.
- Shin Sangoku Musou Blast
- Normal Attack: Fires three projectiles in succession.
- Charge Attack 1: Launches a series of projectiles from both sides. The Blast version allows the projectiles to travel further and explode into bursts of light, dazing opponents caught in the crossfire.
- Charge Attack 2: Flips forward while surrounded by a tornado. The Blast version has the wielder entrap the target, hitting them with a barrage of projectiles before doing a fierce dive.
Fighting Style
This moveset is a revamped version of Daqiao's pugil sticks moveset from Shin Sangoku Musou Multi Raid 2. An excellent long-ranged moveset, it is capable of clearing crowds easily with its C5 and C6. However, it is fairly weak for dueling officers and users are recommended to use other secondary weapons to counterbalance this. Most of its charge attacks launch the user into the air, allowing for easy aerial assaults or combo building by tapping .
Spiked Shield
Ground Moveset
- : Stabs the ground with weapon, causing a ring of fissures to erupt around the user. Continuously inflicts slowed-down hitstun on every target trapped inside, is unblockable and if any charge attacks are activated wield a field is active, it will erupt and disappear while inflicting knockback on any targets nearby. Lasts for a set amount of time, and more than one field cannot be placed since C1 also can activate the explosion.
- , : Cao Ren's orginal C2. Un-sheathes blade to uppercut the enemy with a right-handed scoop forward in a step.
- , , , (), (): Cao Ren's original C3, where the user shoots several energy saw-blades five times from the shield-blade pointed in front, akin to an arm gun, only the final shot is an invisible projectile that is fired to the ground for a stunning quake that launches away on airborne hit. Fires a total of 3 shots standalone, and two more shots can be added per input. The recoil is not as strong as it was in previous installments.
- , , , : Spins around once via a sweeping strike with the shield (creating a stunning circular slash effect) before stomping the ground with the left leg in a sumō style for a quake that knocks back (Cao Ren's original True Musou finisher stomp from the fifth installment).
- , , , , : Cao Ren's original C5, where the user turns and punches down on the ground to produce a small quake that launches. Has a weakened launching effect on airborne targets.
- , , , , , : Punches the shield-blade into the earth, and then fires air waves unto the earth, causing rocks to erupt within the user's vicinity akin to a jackhammer.
- , , , , , : Cao Ren's original normal attack string combo; slashes inward with a punching motion, then an outward slash, hopping shield crush (with buckler in front of the user like a wall, and puts them in an airborne state), outward swat, inward strike, then a rushing bash by one step with a buckler bash.
- Dashing : Cao Ren's original dash attack animation; Runs/rams forward with the buckler with its blade removed for a while, then does an outward drawing slash with the buckler as they brake from their running. Now carries foes into the final blow with multiple hits, and also has a more solid-stance animation for the final slash which cuts off the inertia from the initial dash.
- , : Cao Ren's original jumping charge from the fifth installment; performs a flip onto the ground, stabbing his buckler into the ground to create a small quake. Cannot trigger the C1's energy field explosion.
- Switch Attack: Switches immediately without performing an extra attack.
Horse Moveset
- : Sends out two invisible air waves in front of nearby enemies. Cannot trigger the C1's energy field explosion.
- , , , , , : Does diagonal swings on the left several times in a row.
Changes
- , : Cao Ren's original jumping attack, where the user performs a downward diagonal slash to the right in an inward hooking punch; has an altered animation.
- , : Original falling quake attack re-allocated to the correct input.
- Storm Rush: Inflicts multiple slashes that send out several air currents towards the target. The user ends the attack by slamming the ground.
- Switch Counter: Dodges incoming attack while countering with a frontal stab.
- Shin Sangoku Musou Blast
- Normal Attack: Swings at the enemy twice before initiating a leaping strike.
- Charge Attack 1: Stabs the ground several times, with the final thrust causing an impact strong enough to send nearby opponents into the air. The Blast version adds an explosive effect for each thrust.
- Charge Attack 2: Does a full spinning slash, then strikes at the earth to create a damaging tremor. The Blast version inflicts more damage than usual.
Fighting Style
As a nod to Cao Ren's original style pre-sixth installment, all of his normal attacks oddly have nearly the exact same animations as before, only all of the charge attacks associated with the weapon save for the C2, C3, C5 and jumping charge are notably altered in animation.
Lightning Sword
Ground Moveset
- : Launches a powerful thrust.
- , : Does a frontal stab followed by a turning diagonal-right slash knocking enemies into the air. Activates elements.
- , , : Jabs enemies with right elbow which acts as a grab, then stabs enemy three times in a row quickly, followed up by the user jumping and performing a spinning slash upon landing. Activates elements on the stabbing portion.
- , , , : Leaps into the air and performs four slashes, each one at a different angle before the final downward slash. Every slash performed propels the user forward while in midair, and each blow activates elements.
- , , , , : Performs a diagonal upward slash with two-hands followed by an upward two-handed over-the-back swing that launches. Activates elements, and styled almost akin to Sima Shi's Warriors Orochi 3 C5 in terms of the motion.
- , , , , , : Unleashes a powerful circular slash done horizontally and then leaps into the air to sword-plant the blade into the ground to conjure a dome with electrical energy. Enemies caught in it will be launched into the air left dangling momentarily. Those not airborne will stay paralyzed and be unable to move for a short time until they are either attacked or too much time passes. Activates elements.
- , , , , , : Inward-turning slash to the left, inward swing to the left, forward-stepping swing to the right in a turn, outward-right slash, forward low-position single thrust that does two-hits, then finishes with a leaping-two-handed swing turn to the right.
- Dashing : Slides tip of blade along the ground before bringing it up for a vertical slice, knocking opponents into the air. Somewhat akin to the user's C5 attack.
- , : Swings blade upward from the right for a launching slash.
- Dash: Flips around in mid-air while holding sword in an upright position.
- Switch Attack: Performs a full-range spinning slash. Causes foes to stumble around until they crumple to the ground when it connects.
Horse Moveset
- : Unleashes a small shockwave traveling forward from the right side that launches. Activates elements.
- , , , , , : Does narrow swings from right to left repeatedly.
Changes
- Dynasty Warriors 8
- , , , , , : The electrical dome is now a giant yin-yang symbol shockwave instead, akin to Sima Yi's True Musou finisher from the fifth installment.
- , : Dives into the floor at a diagonal angle to perform a spinning slash behind the user upon landing.
- Storm Rush: Launches multiple quick stabs followed by a forward strike.
- Switch Counter: Steps back before launching a powerful thrust, knocking away nearby opponents.
- Shin Sangoku Musou Blast
- Normal Attack: Delivers three quick round swings; two to the left and one to the right.
- Charge Attack 1: Performs a circular slash followed by a leaping slash, then stabs the ground to produce damaging fissures. The Blast version replaces the fissure with a gravity field for more coverage.
- Charge Attack 2: Unleashes a flurry of slashes done while moving in mid-air. The Blast version causes the wielder to emit a shockwave at the end of the assault.
Fighting Style
Arm Blade
Ground Moveset
- : Surfs on the boat for a short period of time. can be pressed at the end of this attack to continue into the dash attack.
- , : Uses the boat to launch an uppercut.
- , , : Surfs on the boat for a longer period of time.
- , , , : Surfs on the boat, quickly alternating between swerving left and right.
- , , , , : Surfs on a giant tsunami, lifting the user upward.
- , , , , , : Same as above but lasts for a longer period of time.
- , , , , , : Hits upward, swings to the right twice, rams forward, swings to the left, and hops in time to slam the ground, producing waves to wash away the enemy.
- Dashing : Grabs boat and spirals forward in mid-air with it.
- , : Surfs for a short time upon hitting the ground.
- Switch Attack: Knocks foes back by tossing weapon within a short distance.
Horse Moveset
- : Bats away enemies by swinging on the right side once.
- , , , , , : Swings back and forth while facing on the right.
Changes
- Storm Rush: Produces a whirlwind by spinning around continuously before hurling weapon high up into the air and surfing on it by the time it comes back on the ground.
- Switch Counter: Counters back by riding weapon against the enemy at an angle.
Fighting Style
Boomerang
Ground Moveset
- : Unleashes two roundhouse kicks done using both legs, starting with the left and then with the right.
- , : Tosses boomerang up into the air vertically. Activates weapon elements.
- , , , (), (), (), (): Throws boomerang in front of the user before spinning at an arc and returning back. Pressing again can make the user toss it once more. Can be thrown up to five times in a row with the final attack activating elements.
- , , , : Hurls boomerang as it fully spins in front of user and slightly behind them. Activates weapon elements.
- , , , , : Throws boomerang and causes it to spin around multiple times, eventually traveling upward to launch nearby enemies high up into the air. Activates weapon elements.
- , , , , , : Spins in place with boomerang outstretched to damage enemies close by before tossing it forward. Force created from the constant spinning creates a mini tornado that picks up enemies and damages them as it travels along the ground a short distance from the user, and all portions activate weapon elements.
- , , , , , : Does a round slash to the right, a strike to the lower left, a roundhouse kick, and three more diagonal slashes alternating between right and left.
- Charge Attack follow-up , , : Pressing after a strong attack has connected will cause the user to toss the weapon to the side causing slight damage, then perform a flurry of kicks with the left leg followed by a horizontal fire-trailed-chop with their hand that can guard break.
- When used by Zhurong, she cannot perform this followup from her C5-EX.
- Dashing : A powerful half-circle slice with weapon swung with enough might.
- , : Swings at enemies beneath the user.
- Dash: Spins around counterclockwise while leaping forward.
- Switch Attack: Throws boomerang forward at full force.
Horse Moveset
- : Throws boomerang as it performs a full spin around the horse.
- , , , , , : Does downward slashes from right to left repeatedly.
Changes
- Dynasty Warriors 8
- , : Drops down and strikes the ground to produce a tremor within the user's vicinity.
- Storm Rush: Produces violent currents by swinging weapon repeatedly. The user finishes the attack by launching a small tornado and a piercing thrust.
- Switch Counter: Steps away from the attacker before unleashing two strikes that send them airborne.
Fighting Style
This weapon is a modified version of Zhurong's moveset from previous titles. Its gimmick is pulling off quick strikes and canceling strong attacks, making it great for combo purposes, along with a bevy of elemental activation on its C6 as well as a very safe and quick Switch Attack.
Circle Blade
Ground Moveset
- : Holds weapon in front of user, tosses it up, and makes it land on the ground with a powerful thud.
- , (): Holds weapon in front of user and begins spinning while surrounded by a deep crimson aura. The user tosses it up as it spins, and it lands on the ground to juggle enemies while locked in place.
- , : Spins weapon in hands behind user, then swings up under-arm style to knock enemies into the air.
- , , (): Similar to the last move but causes weapon to spin away from the user, juggling opponents in the air for a few seconds before returning back.
- , , : Holds weapon close to body and does a full spin, ramming the body of the circle blade into the enemy.
- , , , (): Instead of ramming weapon unto the enemy, it spins around the user's arm and juggles foes continuously.
- , , , : Swings weapon on arm while pulling it up, knocking enemies into the air. The user falls back slightly after performing this move.
- , , , , (): The user uses spinning weapon to propel forward, mowing down enemies in the process.
- , , , , : Swings weapon up into the air, causing it to land on the ground while the user does a pose right in the center of the ring.
- , , , , , (): Performs an uppercut while weapon is spinning rapidly.
- , , , , , : Tosses circle blade up into the air, grabs it as it falls, performs a full spin, and violently slams the ground.
- , , , , , , (): As the weapon falls, the user performs a roundhouse kick to catch the weapon. Once caught on the user's foot, the force of the kick propels the weapon to circle around the wielder three times while it spins. It starts out close to the user before traveling further out, decimating all enemies within range.
- , , , , , : Slams the ground once, swings weapon to the left, and does several turning slashes to the right before striking from behind.
- Dashing : Performs a full degree spin while slowing down.
- , : Holds weapon over head, then slams it unto the ground.
- Switch Attack: Performs four spinning attacks before throwing circle blade forward.
- Special Effects: While performing a strong attack, pressing while the weapon briefly flashes red will result in an alternate, more powerful, move. In Dynasty Warriors 8 the red-colored flash is replaced by a more subdued teal.
Horse Moveset
- : User throws weapon towards the ground. It spins while being thrown, causing it to move alongside the horse as it runs and knock nearby foes away.
- , , , , , : Swings weapon from right to left several times.
Changes
- Storm Rush: Does wide horizontal and vertical slashes back and forth before juggling enemies by spinning weapon rapidly.
- Switch Counter: Turns back before unleashing a sweeping smack to repel the attacker.
Fighting Style
Due to the complexity of handling the circle blade, it takes patience and practice to effectively use this peculiar weapon. Players who tend to constantly mash buttons may find it difficult to use the modified moves properly. The flash will only appear around the weapon if the button is pressed only once to initiate the desired charge attack. Pressing it repeatedly will prevent the flash from showing up.
If mastered however, the perfect-executed followups tend to all be rife with elemental activation that can shred even the sturdiest of targets due to constant proc'ing.Orb and Scepter
Ground Moveset
- : Conjures a single orb which revolves around the user. Up to five orbs may be conjured this way.
- , : Uppercut swing with stick. Conjures an orb.
- , , : Turning outwards swing into a back-turned wand wave with the free hand that produces three orbs. Activates elements on the initial swing.
- , , , : Thrusts up front to hit away all previously conjured orbs in a straight line to the front. Orbs activate elements.
- , , , , : Thrusts downward in front pool-cue-style and to bounce a single orb forward up and down. Activates elements on each hitbox.
Jabs the nearest enemy for a few times with the tip of the scepter, then releases two orbs and hits them so they travel in
- , , , , , : Flings out two orbs that fan out from each other slowly, then if not interrupted swings the scepter to the left, causing the orbs to travel in zig-zagging motions towards the front. Activates elements per hitbox.
- , , , , , : Three overhead flailing swings into an outward swing, then pool-cue-thrusts with the scepter three times (on the fifth input) before finishing with a downward swing (that activates elements).
- Dashing : Sliding brake thrust shot with conjured orb. Shoots any other orbs forward.
- , : Swings downward while in the air. Fires any conjured orbs down as well.
- Dash: Propels self further while leaping.
- Switch Attack: Downwards swing with conjured orb that acts as a grab; once it connects, the victim gets bounced/dribbled a bit before user after a full turn thrusts at them to knock them back a distance. Hits any other orbs surrounding the user. In Next, this move merely produces more orbs and is also capable of canceling other attacks.
Horse Moveset
- : Swipes once with the scepter to the right, then jabs an orb to the left.
- , , , , , : Six alternating right-and-left swipes with scepter.
Changes
- Dynasty Warriors 8
- , : Pool-cue-shoots four orbs while hovering in midair that ricochet off the floor and into the air. Carries some aerial momentum and also activates elements per shot.
- Storm Rush: Pokes enemies repeatedly before thrusting them away.
- Switch Counter: Counters by lifting attacker up via single poke. Orbs still remain during the weapon switch.
- Shin Sangoku Musou Blast
- Normal Attack: Fires a blue-colored projectile towards the enemy three consecutive times.
- Charge Attack 1: Causes an orb to bounce around the vicinity in a triangular pattern. The Blast version has the orb rebound more frequently while leaving trails of fire in its wake, then it surrounds the user to inflict contact damage against nearby foes. Although temporary, more can be conjured for additional effect.
- Charge Attack 2: Attacks enemies by launching an orb ricocheting within a zig-zagging motion. The Blast version provides improvements similar to that of the first charge attack.
Fighting Style
Trishula
Ground Moveset
- : Performs a mid-air backflip, kicking the nearest enemy to the front in an attempt to break their guard.
- , : Does a horizontal slash with the left-hand trishula, then an uppercut using the right-hand one.
- , , : A quick butterfly kick with two slashes upon landing.
- , , , : Jumps and stabs the ground heavily with both trishulas.
- , , , , : Does a flip kick that emits a miniature tornado.
- , , , , , : Boomerangs both trishulas rapidly around the user once.
- , , , , , : Unleashes five left and right slashes with individual trishulas before using both for one last strike.
- Dashing : Slashes once with both trishulas.
- , : Does a downward swipe with both trishulas.
- Dash: Rolls forward while jumping in the air.
- Switch Attack: Performs a low sweeping kick. Next provides the move with an additional short-ranged air wave as well as attack-cancelling properties.
Horse Moveset
- : A simultaneous rising cut with both trishulas.
- , , , , , : Does a series of consecutive slashes with left and right weapons.
Changes
- Dynasty Warriors 8
- : Attack is identical to its previous incarnation, but it no longer kicks away juggled enemies.
- Storm Rush: Performs multiple slashes back and forth followed by a sweeping cross slash.
- Switch Counter: Steps back and performs a short spinning attack to repel the opponent.
- Shin Sangoku Musou Blast
- Normal Attack: Swings at the opponent three times.
- Charge Attack 1: Performs a half-circular swipe and an ascending strike. The Blast version follows it up with several maneuverable swings and a cross slash.
- Charge Attack 2: Covers self within a tornado, unbalancing nearby enemies. The Blast version amplifies the attack's damage output.
Fighting Style
A very fast weapon, making it easy to use and great to combo with. Players can block incoming attacks and projectiles while performing the attack string. One downside to this weapon is that it
deals very little damage.
Podao
Ground Moveset
- : Sends one kick forward. Does miniscule damage, but can be used to break the enemy's guard.
- , : An uppercut which sends a single enemy flying before smashing them down to the ground.
- , , : Four right-and-left swings followed by a ground smash.
- , , , : Does a strong horizontal slash.
- , , , , : Anticipated uppercut slash that launches foes high up in the air.
- , , , , , : Leaps up and performs a mighty ground smash, creating a devastating area of effect.
- , , , , , : The first four hits consist of diagonal overhead slashes. The fifth strike is an underhanded rising diagonal slash which leads the user to strike downward on the final swing.
- Dashing : Does a sliding strike using sword's hilt.
- , : Launches a downward swing.
- Shadow Sprint: Charges forth while knocking nearby foes down.
- Switch Attack: Performs a turning slash. Can be used to cancel attacks in Next.
- Switch Effect: Switching to this weapon provides the user with a temporary speed boost.
Horse Moveset
- : Inflicts left and right slashes to both sides of saddle.
- , , , , , : Does a series of downwards slashes on the right side.
Changes
- Storm Rush: Slashes wildly from left to right continuously before swinging at the upper right.
- Switch Counter: Dashes back and counters opponent with two swipes.
- Shin Sangoku Musou Blast
- Normal Attack: Swings at the enemy three times.
- Charge Attack 1: Generates a radial shockwave. The Blast version produces a wider one.
- Charge Attack 2: Does two diagonal swipes followed by a downward strike. The Blast version has the user do four swipes and causes more fissures to erupt from the finishing hit.
Fighting Style
Dragon Spear
Ground Moveset
- : A sliding charge using the spear.
- , : Smashes the ground once, knocking several enemies upward.
- , , : A few twirling juggles using the spear's tip, followed by a ground smash.
- , , , : Performs a radial overhead spinning slash.
- , , , , : Knee-slides forward in time to perform a sudden uppercut.
- , , , , , : Does two strong jabs forward, then reverts spear before delivering a heavy ground smash using weapon's shaft.
- , , , , , : A swing to the right, then another to the left, followed by two overhead swipes, a stab forward, and a heavier swing towards the right.
- Dashing : A few juggling swings, ends with a stronger left-to-right slash to the front.
- , : Does rapid juggling hits against airborne enemies. Pressing the button extends the juggle.
- Dive: Performs a quick back dash to evade the enemy.
- Switch Attack: Brackets up a small group of enemies using the spear's tip, then send them diagonally upwards. Although the attack can only stagger foes in Next, it is capable of canceling other moves to initiate another hit string.
Horse Moveset
- : Does a more powerful swing from left to right.
- , , , , , : Does six swings to the right side of the horse.
Changes
- Storm Rush: Performs short quick jabs followed by a hopping overhead slash.
- Switch Counter: Retaliates by taking a step back and smacking assailant with spear.
- Shin Sangoku Musou Blast
- Normal Attack: Performs a series of acrobatic strikes.
- Charge Attack 1: Attacks enemies with a sweeping slide kick. The Blast version raises the slide's attack power and adds an ascending slash for good measure.
- Charge Attack 2: Uses spear to grapple an enemy, then knocks them on the ground with a downward swing. The Blast version has the user create fissures upon slamming the earth.
Fighting Style
A more flexible version of the spear moveset found in the original game, this moveset is an amalgamation of Zhao Yun's movesets from previous installments. It is fast, user-friendly like the normal spear, and is able to rack up combos very quickly.
Crescent Blade
Ground Moveset
- : Smashes the ground with rear end of weapon in front, emitting a very small quake. It also temporarily imbues the user's attacks with the fire element.
- , : Scoops up the target with the blunt end of the blade via a lifting slash.
- , , , (), (), (): Swings the blade left-handed via an oblique-horizontal-windmill swing, then into a final one that stuns or knocks back. Can be inputted for more hits, with the final blow activating elements.
- , , , : A strong horizontal slash forward. Inflicts crashing knockback and has elemental activation.
- , , , , : A turning motion into a wind-up upward slash that lifts targets up via a launching quake. Somewhat akin to Guan Yu's fifth-installment-C5. Activates elements.
- , , , , , : Slashes diagonally with the left-hand on the blade to release a powerful wave of air that inflicts 2 hits or more. Inflicts crashing knockback and guard breaks on any hit, allowing subsequent hits to damage the target. Activates elements.
- , , , , , : A swinging strike slightly-upward to the right, a slight-upward shoving swing to the left via criss-crossing the first move, an upward lift to the right, a wide horizontal clearing to the left, with an overhead swing to the left once more, then finishes with a wide one-handed slash to the left that knocks back (that activates elements).
- Dashing : Does a sliding uppercut slash.
- , : An aerial two-handed downward scooping swing.
- Dive: Dashes back from incoming attacks.
- Switch Attack: A wide-left-handed outward clearing slash. Can be used to cancel strong attacks in Next.
Horse Moveset
- : Unleashes a powerful swing to the right and to the left.
- , , , , , : Six scooping swings to the right.
Changes
- Dynasty Warriors 8
- , , , , , : Same as before, only the energy is invisible.
- , : Twirls around in mid-air before pounding the ground.
- Performing a Dive/backdash no longer grants the weapon its C1 Fire-element buff.
- Storm Rush: Does several quick slashes in a row followed by a diagonal swing at the end.
- Switch Counter: Counters by launching a wide sweeping slash.
- Shin Sangoku Musou Blast
- Normal Attack: Hits the opponent with three heavy swings.
- Charge Attack 1: Performs a downward crescent slash. The Blast version causes the slash mark to travel into the air like a shockwave.
- Charge Attack 2: Does two small turning swipes slanted upwards. The Blast version enlarges the two swipes into large crescent slash marks while leaving behind a stationary tornado in its place.
Fighting Style
The Crescent Blade offers strong crowd clearing ability, since the weapon swings in a very wide area. The C1 and C6 attacks are very powerful, especially C6 attack, since they can break through enemy guard and deal above average damage. When Guan Yu equips it, the C1-EX provides him with a fairly strong damage buff in tandem with the C1's fire buff, though the Hyper Armor will prevent Guan Yu from fliching which disables the Dive ability in tight scenarios.
The C6-EX is even more devastating, allows him to quickly finish his enemies from a fairly long range (especially when combined with physical collateral damage attributes for even more damage build-up). However, it is very slow, and thus often leaves user vulnerable during the backswing animation.
Twin Pike
Ground Moveset
- : Sends out a radial shockwave around the user, sending nearby enemies airborne.
- , : Smashes the nearest enemy down with the right-hand head of weapon, then hits them upward with the left-hand one.
- , , : Four overhead swings with one head, and a final heavier slash which stuns enemies.
- , , , : Two wide slashes, one to the left and another to the right.
- , , , , : A overhead swing which leads to the ground being smashed.
- , , , , , : Stabs the nearest enemy, smashes them twice on the ground, and swings the victim out. Each portion activates elements.
- , , , , , : Three diagonal cuts. Takes weapon into one hand and swings it upwards. Uses other hand to bring the weapon downwards. Finishes with a horizontal swing.
- Dashing : Punches forward with user's right hand while skidding to a halt.
- , : A downward swing using weapon's right side edge.
- Shadow Sprint: Does a quick sliding shoulder ram forward.
- Zhang Fei's C1-EX cannot be cancelled into a Shadow Sprint.
- Switch Attack: Jumps forward and performs a mighty right-to-left slash. Has the ability to cancel attacks in Next.
Horse Moveset
- : Left and right swings on both sides of saddle.
- , , , , , : Six alternating slashes done from left to right.
Changes
- Storm Rush: Does multiple short strikes that leave trails of wide slash marks against the target. Near the end of the attack, the user knocks all affected foes away.
- Switch Counter: Steps back and counters with an ascending slash.
- Shin Sangoku Musou Blast
- Normal Attack: Swings at the enemy thrice in a steady manner.
- Charge Attack 1: Does an arcing slash strong enough to almost unbalance the wielder. The Blast version includes a stomp that knocks surrounding foes away.
- Charge Attack 2: Inflicts three twirling swipes while moving forward, with the last hit providing more coverage. The Blast version adds even more range and also includes an extra swing.
Fighting Style
Siege Spear
Ground Moveset
- : Activates and revs up the weapon engine which unleashes a grinding wind, increasing overall speed while adding an extra move to charge attacks (which will instantly wear off when weapon switching).
- , : Quickly launches user upward.
- , , : Fires an air bullet to the front. The trajectory of the attack is raised upward after using C1.
- , , , : Does a full degree swing before inflicting a frontal stab.
- , , , , : Jumps forward and stabs weapon to the ground, producing fissures on contact.
- , , , , , : Launches the user high into the air while giving the option of where to land before descending down. Upon landing, the user causes a powerful impact that devastates enemies below. The attack ends with an explosion instead after using C1.
- , , , , , : Launches a series of heavy swings and spins.
- Dashing : Performs a simple boost stab. Changes into a launching dash attack after using C1.
- , : Dives down fiercely to collide with the ground. Adds an explosion effect after using C1.
- Switch Attack: Plants weapon unto the ground, causing it to launch itself into the air.
Horse Moveset
Changes
- Storm Rush: Spins around diagonally to produce a whirlwind tearing foes apart. The attack ends with the user being slowly propelled into the air while holding weapon.
- Switch Counter: Stands back in time to launch a quick thrust against the target.
- Shin Sangoku Musou Blast
- Normal Attack: Attacks the enemy with steady swings.
- Charge Attack 1: Propels self into the air and strikes the ground hard. The Blast version triggers a mid-range explosion upon impact.
- Charge Attack 2: Spins around with enough momentum to unleash a thrust powerful enough to send foes flying. The Blast version has wider swings and a stronger thrust that releases an energy projectile moving at a considerable distance.
Fighting Style
The siege spear features a special booster engine which increases attack speed when charged.
Sword and Hook
Ground Moveset
- : Throws the attached hook dagger to the front. If it lands a hit, the user performs a non-damaging dash towards the hook's direction that lowers enemy defense and can be chained with airborne attacks. Can also be held down or combined with a direction which causes the hook to be fling vertically-upward in front instead.
- Note that whenever a lingering hitbox left behind by the player is activated depending on the attack and character using it, any subsequent grappling-travel attacks will register properly even when they miss, as long as a target is getting hit by a lingering hitbox when the attack is inputted.
- , : Swings sword upward after a turn. Can input again for a followup hook toss.
- , , : Slashes via flicking the sword rapidly in the front in a controlled-frenzy, ending with a backflip kick that stuns and activates elements. Can tap for more hits.
- , , , : Fiercely swings sword to the upward-right, inflicting crashing knockback. Can input again for a followup hook toss. Can activate elements on the sword strike.
- , , , , : Jumps high into the air, then tosses the hook to the ground to dive back at a high speed which causes a launching quake to occur.
- , , , , , : Runs and swings sword around in a controlled-frenzy, then spins to the right to flail hook around in a clearing attack before reattaching it.
- , , , , , : An inward diagonal-downward slash (in a full turn if no other inputs are done), a low-postured wushu-styled outward slash in normal grip, turning inward slash to the left, then two interchanging slashes downward in a step (for each input), with the final input being a leaping inward slash downward to the left that activates elements.
- Dashing : Slashes via a rising uppercut slash, bringing the user up into the air.
- , , (), (): Does two downward slashes in a criss-cross and a forward-somersault kick that spikes.
- Dash: Turns around clockwise while dashing in the air.
- Switch Attack: Slams weapon on the ground for a ground-hitting quake and knocks away all nearby enemies. Can be used in the air where it can carry momentum.
Horse Moveset
- : Spins hook on the right side and flings it upward, launching nearby enemies in the process.
- , , , , , : Does twirling slashes on the right several times.
Changes
- Dynasty Warriors 8
- , : Sends hook down while leaping in mid-air. If it connects, the user quickly descends upon the target and slashes them with a sliding inward cut upon landing. One of the few jumping charges to activate elements.
- Storm Rush: Swings hook back and forth multiple times, ending the barrage with a quick scooting reverse-grip slash from right-to-left.
- Switch Counter: Backs away before countering with a swift dashing slash.