Zhang Liao/Movesets

Movesets

Zhang Liao is affiliated with the pole blade in this title.

Fighting Style

Keys:

Normal Attack •

Charge Attack •

Musou •

Jump/Mount

Main Attacks: Charge Attack 1: : Performs a low spin swipe with weapon's blunt end to break through the enemy's guard.; Charge Attack 2: : Lifts nearby foes to the air via turning uppercut swing.; Charge Attack 3: : Does a hopping overhead slam to daze enemies for a brief moment.; Charge Attack 4: : Spins around and pivots on one foot with weapon held in front to kick away foes.; Charge Attack 5: : Launches enemies up with a rising swipe, then extends the attack with an aerial strike directed downwards if is pressed again. Inflicts fire elemental damage if Zhang Liao is equipped with his fifth weapon in Xtreme Legends.; Charge Attack 6: : Generates a pillar of wind by twirling weapon in an overhead manner.; Normal Attack 1: : Unleashes an inward right slash, a leftward smack, a rear shaft jab, and an outward whipping slash headed towards the right.; Normal Attack 2: : Similar to the first normal attack string, but includes a round swing to the left.; Normal Attack 3: : Similar to the second normal attack string, but adds a diagonal slash towards the front.

Musou Attacks: Musou Attack: : Performs a series of downward diagonal slashes while stepping forth, ending it with a fierce horizontal sweeping slash directed to the right.; True Musou Attack: Low Health + : Similar to the normal Musou animation, but has Zhang Liao finish the attack with three horizontal slashes instead of one.

Auxiliary Attacks: Dash Attack: Dashing + : Swats foes down with a quick rightward slash.; Jump Attack: : Does a circular slash directed downward while leaping in the air.; Power Guard: L1 + : Pushes an attacking enemy back to create some distance from them.

Horse Attacks: Horse Charge Attack: : Powerfully swings down to both sides of horse. Can be performed while in the middle of doing the normal horse attack string.; Horse Normal Attack: : Lands several arcing swings to the right and left repeatedly.; Horse Musou Attack: : Delivers powerful swipes back and forth while riding.

Bow Attacks: Normal Shot: Hold R1 + : Shoots a normal arrow.; Charge Shot: Hold R1 + : Fires a charged shot that dazes the target.; Musou Shot: Hold R1 + : Unleashes a Musou-powered arrow that knocks enemies down. Can fire multiple shots rapidly so long as the user has enough Musou.

Fighting Style

For the majority of the series, Zhang Liao and Lu Meng were noticeably similar due to their respective movesets, but changes were made to differentiate them from one another. Zhang Liao, for his part, is a balanced character with decent stats and average stats. Though his attacks are sluggish, they do not pose much of a problem if timed well enough.

His Musou attack, however, has a very odd effect where it behaves "out-of-sync", causing the AI not to react well to the gaps in between its hits. As a result, players may find themselves easily dealing damage to foes without fear of being blocked.

Keys:

Normal Attack •

Charge Attack •

Musou •

Jump/Mount

Main Attacks: Charge Attack 1: : Dashes forward while twirling pole blade around, causing enemies to be lifted up into the air. Tap again to add a wide round slash that knocks targets away from Zhang Liao.; Charge Attack 2: : Lifts nearby foes to the air via turning uppercut swing.; Charge Attack 3: : Swings weapon's blunt end to the right and left repeatedly, ending the attack with a blade swing to the upper right which leaves enemies dazed. Tap repeatedly for additional hits.; Charge Attack 4: : Spins around and pivots on one foot while doing a lopsided circular slash with the other leg accompanying its trajectory. As a result of the extra range, the move knocks away more surrounding foes than its previous form in the third game.; Charge Attack 5: : Launches enemies up with a rising swipe, then extends the attack with an aerial strike directed downwards if is pressed again.; Charge Attack 6: : Generates a bursting pillar of wind by twirling weapon in an overhead manner.; Normal Attack 1: : Unleashes an inward right slash, a leftward smack, a rear shaft jab, and an outward whipping slash headed towards the right.; Normal Attack 2: : Similar to the first normal attack string, but includes a round swing to the left.; Normal Attack 3: : Similar to the second normal attack string, but adds a diagonal slash towards the front.

Musou Attacks: Musou Attack: : Performs a series of downward diagonal slashes while stepping forth, ending it with a fierce round slash directed towards the right.; True Musou Attack: Low Health + : Similar to the normal Musou animation, but has Zhang Liao finish the attack with three round slashes instead of just one.

Auxiliary Attacks: Dash Attack: Dashing + : Swats foes down with a quick rightward slash.; Jump Attack: : Does a circular slash directed downward while leaping in the air.; Jump Charge: : Flips in mid-air and stabs the ground to produce a tremor that causes foes to lose their footing while receiving damage.; Parry: L1 + : Instantly performs the fourth charge attack to counter incoming blows.; Announcement: R3: Lets out a war cry while generating purple and green electricity. Breaks through the enemy's guard and leaves them briefly staggered. Aura may change color in Free Mode to match the user's chosen side.

Horse Attacks: Horse Charge Attack: : Powerfully swings down to both sides of horse. Can be performed while in the middle of doing the normal horse attack string.; Horse Normal Attack: : Lands several arcing swings to the right and left repeatedly.; Horse Musou Attack: : Delivers powerful swipes back and forth while riding.

Bow Attacks: Normal Shot: Hold R1 + : Shoots a normal arrow.; Charge Shot: Hold R1 + : Fires a charged shot that dazes the target.; Musou Shot: Hold R1 + : Unleashes a Musou-powered arrow that knocks enemies down. Can fire multiple shots rapidly so long as the user has enough Musou.

Dynasty Warriors 4: Empires

Zhang Liao gains an additional skill in this title.

Weapon Type: Spear

Skill - Charge: Strengthens personal troops to attack the enemy main camp.

Dynasty Warriors (PSP)

Zhang Liao gains additional abilities and traits in this title.

Ability - Ordinance: Increases the number of supplies acquired when capturing storehouses.

Boost - Life ++: Raises the player's life and Musou gauges by 50 points.

Skill - Roar +: Reduces the enemy's morale by 2 gauges.

Samurai Warriors: State of War

Zhang Liao gains an additional skill in this title.

Sub-Officer Skill - Persian: Starts missions mounted on a Persian horse. Only applies to outdoor missions.

Musou Attack:

: The animations are the same as in Dynasty Warriors 4, though it cannot be stopped until the player's Musou gauge is fully depleted. Similar to the Musou attacks employed by the Samurai Warriors cast, a shockwave burst is added at the end of the finisher.

Roll: R: Rolls on the ground to evade enemy attacks.

Fighting Style

Keys:

Normal Attack •

Charge Attack •

Musou •

Jump/Mount

Base Game

Main Attacks: Charge Attack 1: : Dashes forward while twirling pole blade around, causing enemies to be lifted up into the air. Tap again to add a wide round slash that knocks targets away from Zhang Liao. Cannot activate elemental effects provided by orbs.; Charge Attack 2: : Lifts nearby foes to the air via turning uppercut swing. Cannot activate elemental effects provided by orbs.; Charge Attack 3: : Swings weapon's blunt end to the right and left repeatedly, ending the attack with a blade swing to the upper right which leaves enemies dazed.; Charge Attack 4: : Spins around and pivots on one foot while doing a lopsided circular slash with the other leg accompanying its trajectory.; Charge Attack 5: : Does an upward leaping swing while surrounded within a white tornado. Launches nearby enemies high up into the air.; Charge Attack 6: : Generates a strong burst of wind by twirling weapon in an overhead manner.; Normal Attack 1: : Unleashes an inward right slash, a leftward smack, a rear shaft jab, and an outward whipping slash headed towards the right.; Normal Attack 2: : Similar to the first normal attack string, but includes a round swing to the left.; Normal Attack 3: : Similar to the second normal attack string, but adds a diagonal slash towards the front.; Evolution Attack: : Forgoes the normal attack string's sixth hit animation by transitioning to the combo leading up to the fourth charge attack.

Musou Attacks: Musou Attack: : Performs a series of downward diagonal slashes while stepping forth, ending it with a fierce round slash directed towards the right.; True Musou Attack: Low Health + : Similar to the normal Musou animation, but replaces the finisher with a low sweep to the right that gives way to the user launching a large fireball forward.

Auxiliary Attacks: Dash Attack: Dashing + : Swats foes down with a quick rightward slash.; Jump Attack: : Does a circular slash directed downward while leaping in the air.; Jump Charge: : Releases an energy disc at a downward angle while jumping.; Parry: L1 + : Instantly performs the fourth charge attack to counter incoming blows.

Horse Attacks: Horse Charge Attack: : Powerfully swings down to both sides of horse. Can be performed while in the middle of doing the normal horse attack string.; Horse Normal Attack: : Lands several arcing swings to the right and left repeatedly.; Horse Musou Attack: : Delivers powerful swipes back and forth while riding.

Bow Attacks: Normal Shot: Hold R1 + : Shoots a normal arrow.; Charge Shot: Hold R1 + : Fires a charged shot that dazes the target.; Musou Shot: Hold R1 + : Unleashes a Musou-powered arrow that knocks enemies down. Can fire multiple shots rapidly so long as the user has enough Musou.

Dynasty Warriors 5: Xtreme Legends

Xtreme Mode Skills: Special Ability - Axe Power-Up: Doubles party's attack power for 30 seconds. Occurs randomly.

Destiny Mode Skills: Favored Action: Using Rations; Taught Skill Type: Mount

Dynasty Warriors 5: Empires

Zhang Liao gains additional abilities and traits in this title.

Weapon Type: Spear

Skill - Defend: Allows the character to be more impervious to enemy attacks.

Proposed Policy 1 - Defense+: Increases the defense of all areas under the player's control by 1.

Proposed Policy 2 - Equal Start: Begins the battle with roughly half of the bases on the battlefield under the player's control.

Dynasty Warriors: Online

Although Zhang Liao's moveset is available for player avatars to make use of, the actual character can be temporarily controlled by using their corresponding spirit item.

Domestic Bonus: +10 to Technology

Battle Bonus: +15 to Musou

Dynasty Warriors Vol. 2

Zhang Liao gains additional abilities and traits in this title.

Ability - Roar: Reduces the enemy's morale by 1 gauge.

Support Skill 1 - Fill Musou: Gradually refills the party's Musou gauge.

Support Skill 2 - True Musou: Enables the player to perform a True Musou attack without being in critical condition.

Charge Attack 2:

: Lifts nearby foes to the air via turning uppercut swing. Can innately inflict light elemental damage, making it unblockable.

Team Combination: Fierce Loyalty (猛き主従; lit. "Ferocious Master and Servant"); Required Characters: Zhang Liao, Lu Bu; Bonus: +28 Attack, +20 Growth

Proud Friends (尊敬する友; lit. "Respected Friends")

Required Characters: Guan Yu, Zhang Liao

Bonus: +72 Musou, +36 Attack

Dynasty Warriors DS: Fighter's Battle

Obstacle Effects: Obstacle Effect 1 - Great Freeze: Freezes all enemy troops, greatly halting their movements temporarily.; Obstacle Effect 2 - Rally: Rallies the user's troops, temporarily increasing their speed and attack power. Only available to rare card version.

Main Attacks: Normal Attack: Delivers three twirling slashes while on horseback. Knocks the player away if they happen to be nearby.; Strong Attack: After stepping back for a bit, Zhang Liao unleashes several diagonal spin slashes while riding his horse at high speed, then gallops to the air before stomping the ground hard. The resulting impact releases a powerful tremor that knocks away nearby targets.

Warriors Orochi

Modified Attacks: Charge Attack 1: : Functions similarly to its base game incarnation, though the initial hit can now inflict elemental damage. The sequel removes that trait entirely, but it can be replicated by wielding a weapon with the Almighty skill.; Charge Attack 2: : Functions similarly to its base game incarnation, but can break through the enemy's guard.; Charge Attack 6: : Functions similarly to its base game incarnation, but has less range and can no longer inflict elemental damage. In the sequel, it regains its ability to activate weapon elements.

New Attacks: Special Attack: R1: Zhang Liao twirls his weapon to send out a ferocious funnel of wind infused with energy. Can instantly break the enemy's guard and knock targets away. Consumes 50 Musou points.; Hyper Armor: Prevents enemies from interrupting combos with normal attacks.

Team Abilities: Ability 1 - Cavalier: Increases the team's attack and defense while mounted.; Ability 2 - Power: Increases attack of Power-type characters.; Ability 3 - Focus: Increases the team's Musou.; Ability 4 - Potence: Increases the team's attack.

Warriors Orochi 2

Team Attacks: Assist Attack: Counter + L1 + or : Zhang Liao performs his fourth charge attack to assist a teammate. Consumes a portion of Musou.; Triple Attack 1: Low Health + L2 + R2 + : Performs a low leaping slash that causes strong gales to rise from above.; Triple Attack 2: Low Health + L2 + R2 + : Immediately hurls a gust of wind within a certain distance.; Triple Attack 3: Low Health + L2 + R2 + : Causes a fierce pillar of air to surround Zhang Liao as he twirls his weapon around.; Triple Attack Finisher: Zhang Liao quickly swings his weapon around back and forth, then launches an energy wave via round horizontal slash. As the whole team finishes up, a bright pillar of light generates at the intersection of their attack range and engulfs the surrounding area. Enemies caught by the blast sustain massive damage while being flung to the air and set on fire.; Strategy - Face Off: Reduces overall damage inflicted upon all allied forces.

Fighting Style

Zhang Liao's first charge attack as well as his jump charge are among the best moves in his arsenal. His Musou attack still has its "out-of-sync" effect, and works even better in Xtreme Legends due to added hit stun.

When controlled by the AI in Dynasty Warriors 5, most of Zhang Liao's charge attacks will be imbued with the ice element by default.

Zhang Liao plays similar to his base game counterpart in Warriors Orochi, but gets little to no change for his existing moves. His special attack can be good for emergency crowd clearing, though his average attack speed means he will often be overshadowed by others. Regardless, Zhang Liao is still a great character for beginners and experts alike. Players will often find themselves using his third charge attack especially when equipped with powerful weapon attributes like Flash and Slay.

Keys:

Normal Attack •

Charge Attack •

Musou •

Jump/Mount

Base Game

Main Attacks: Renbu String 1: Delivers a diagonal swipe to the left, a swing to the right, and two horizontal slashes done back and forth.; Renbu String 2: Similar to the first Renbu string, but adds several attacks that involve using both halberds symmetrically. They include an upward swing, an overhead slash with each halberd extended to different sides, and two cross slashes done low and high.; Renbu String 3: Similar to the second Renbu string, but includes motions that have both halberds directed at the same direction together. They comprise of two thrusts, one diagonal slash headed to the upper left, and another diagonal slash to the upper right.; Renbu String Infinite: Similar to the third Renbu string, but adds a chain of several diagonal slashes done in alternating directions.; Renbu String 1: Performs a stabbing motion with both halberds in an alternating order while stepping forward.; Renbu String 2: Similar to the first Renbu string, but adds a diagonal strike to the upper left.; Renbu String 3: Similar to the second Renbu string, but adds a wide slash with both halberds extended outward.; Renbu String Infinite: Similar to the third Renbu string, but ends the combo by pounding the ground to trigger a massive burst of energy.; Charge Attack: Holding : Delivers two frontal swipes done in rapid order. The attack's overall range increases the more Renbu levels Zhang Liao has.

Musou Attacks: Musou Attack: : Does an empowered version of the first to third Renbu string repeatedly with Zhang Liao ending the combo with numerous spin slashes done back and forth followed by a wide burst of energy radiating from him as he poses.; True Musou Attack: Low Health + : Similar to the regular Musou attack, but adds the fire attribute to each hit.

Auxiliary Attacks: Dash Attack: Dashing + : Lands a diagonal slash using right halberd while sliding momentarily.; Dash Charge: Dashing + : Leaps up and drives both halberds down on the ground, producing a wide tremor.; Jump Attack: : Does an aerial cross slash with both halberds pointed outward.; Jump Charge: : Rises in mid-air slightly before plunging both halberds on the ground to produce a violent pillar of dirt.; Evasion: R1: Rolls forward to avoid incoming enemy attacks.

Special Attacks: Special Move - True Speed: L2: Allows the user to continuously perform running attacks while receiving a slight boost in attack power and hit speed. Also increases speed of horse if activated while riding. While the move is in effect, Zhang Liao holds his right halberd in front and keeps the left one tucked by his hip as he runs continuously.; True Speed Attack: True Speed + : Slices inward with both halberds while running. Can inflict lightning elemental damage.; True Speed Charge: True Speed + : Performs a stronger version of the dash charge attack.

Grapple Attacks: Grapple Attack: L1 + : Does an overhead swing using left halberd. If the attack connects, Zhang Liao will stab the enemy with both halberds one at a time starting with the right-handed one.; Grapple Charge: L1 + : Performs an inward cross slash. Should the attack successfully connect, Zhang Liao will use both halberds to ensnare the opponent and hurl them away via round swing.; Counter Attack: Counter + L1 + : Spreads both halberds slightly outward to repel enemy attacks.; Counter Charge: Counter + L1 + : Performs a rotating slash attack that sends foes flying a short distance away.; Deadlock Attack: Deadlock + : Upon winning a deadlock, Zhang Liao will slice at the opponent's neck with one halberd before shoving them to the rear with a round slash.

Horse Attacks: Horse Charge Attack: : Launches a delayed yet powerful strike on the right while riding horse. Can be performed while in the middle of doing the normal horse attack string.; Horse Normal Attack: : Swings each halberd repeatedly to the right in alternating order. The number of hits can be increased by filling up the Renbu gauge.; Horse Musou Attack: : Unleashes a series of strong swings done back and forth to the right, then delivers a fierce strike using right halberd.

Officer Skills: Adrenaline: Doubles attack power for 30 seconds when knocked down and near death.; Ward: Doubles defense power for 30 seconds when knocked down and near death.; Victor's Aura: Increases the chances of success for raids and keeps enemies confused for a longer period of time.; Horsemanship: Increases overall abilities of current horse.; Special Start: Allows character to begin each battle with one tome.; Bonus Special: Receives one tome for defeating 300 enemies each time.; Pouch: Allows character to carry up to 2 tomes while making them appear more frequently.; Bag: Allows character to carry up to 3 tomes while making them appear much more frequently.

Tome Skills: Stamina: Increases the duration of special move.; Rush: Inflicts heavy damage on weak enemies by simply touching them during True Speed.; Power Rush: Defeats weak enemies instantly by simply touching them during True Speed.

Dynasty Warriors 6: Empires

Zhang Liao gains additional abilities and traits in this title.

Special Move - True Speed: Serves the same function like in the base game.

Officer Card - Lightning Rider (電光鉄騎; lit. "Lightning Iron Cavalry"): Increases player's attack by a slight amount and decreases cooldown time of special skills when invading.

Dynasty Warriors: Strikeforce

Zhang Liao is affiliated with the twin pikes in this title.

Skills: Fury Awakening Aura: Releases violet flames and light while undergoing fury transformation sequence. Can be imbued with additional effects via certain chi skills.; Type Skill - Charge: Knocks back enemies while dashing. Will only activate while in fury form. Only available in Dynasty Warriors: Strikeforce.; Support Skill - Health Recovery: Restores an ally's health by a moderate amount. Only available in Shin Sangoku Musou Multi Raid 2.; Team Ability - Awakening Boost: Increases amount of awakening points gained when slaying enemies. Only available in Shin Sangoku Musou Multi Raid 2.; Card: Officer Type, Fire Element, +20 (+17 in Multi Raid 2) to Workshop

Enemy-Only Attacks: Shockwave Attack: Unleashes a small radial shockwave to repel nearby foes while providing additional breathing room for incoming attacks. Only used in Dynasty Warriors: Strikeforce.

Card Combination: Cao Wei's Five Wings (曹魏の五翼); Required Characters: Zhang Liao, Xu Huang, Zhang He, Yue Jin, Yu Jin; Bonus: +99 to Blacksmith (Market in Multi Raid 2)

Fighting Style

In Dynasty Warriors 6, Zhang Liao trades his polearm for a pair of axes. His primary strong attacks are viewed as extremely strong even when his Renbu gauge has not risen. Zhang Liao's shorter range and slow grapple means players might opt to give him a standard-type weapon for much of the game.

When controlled by the AI in Strikeforce, Zhang Liao's attacks will be imbued with the metal element by default.

Keys:

Normal Attack •

Charge Attack •

Musou •

Jump/Mount

Base Game

Zhang Liao is affiliated with the twin axes in this title. When equipped with it, Zhang Liao can perform the following unique attacks listed below.

EX Attack:

: Zhang Liao encases himself within a blue flaming aura that knocks back nearby opponents. It also bestows him with a buff that improves his attack speed and movement speed for a few seconds.

Musou Attack - Whirlwind Strike (斬馬撃; lit. "Slashing Horse Attack"):

: Charges forward while holding out and spinning both axes separately in each hand, then finishes the move with a whirling spin attack.

Alternate Musou Attack - Lightning Kick (迅雷脚; lit. "Greased Lightning Kick"): R1 +

: Uses right-handed axe to stab and stun the nearest opponent. If the first stab hits, Zhang Liao will momentarily turn his back to the dazed foe and proceed to hit them with a roundhouse kick accompanied simultaneously by a lightning-infused slash. The attack's second phase is reminiscent of Zhang Liao's fourth charge move from the fourth and fifth games.

Notable Skills

Speed Up +: Increases speed by a medium amount.
Attack Range Up: Increases attack range.
Twin Axes Master: Gains expertise at wielding the twin axes.
Horsemanship: Keeps user from being knocked off of horses less often.

Dynasty Warriors 7: Xtreme Legends

Titles: Lieutenant General (偏将軍) - Slightly increases Legend Mode rewards.; Defense General (典軍校尉) - Slightly increases damage inflicted on enemies when using EX weapons.; River General (横江将軍) - Marginally increases attack and defense against officers when using speed-type weapons.; Campaign General (討逆将軍) - Marginally absorbs health from enemies when damaging them using speed-type weapons.; Front General (前将軍) - Moderately increases defense against projectile and shockwave attacks when using power-type weapons.; General Who Conquers the East (征東将軍) - Moderately increases damage inflicted on enemies when using EX weapons.; Grand Commander (太尉) - Moderately increases damage inflicted on enemies when using speed-type weapons.; Commander General (大将軍) - Moderately increases attack and defense against officers when using power-type weapons.

Dynasty Warriors 7: Empires

Officer Skills

Fame Type: Orderly
Subordinate Special Command - Joint Exercises: Selects a single officer to train with. Increases orderly fame by 1,000 and brave fame by 500 when used.
Ruler Special Command - Custody: Takes custody of the Emperor, giving the user additional authority. Increases orderly fame by 5,000 when used.

Dynasty Warriors Next

Zhang Liao is affiliated with the twin axes in this title.

Unique Attacks: EX Attack: : Serves the same function like in the base game.; Musou Attack: : Zhang Liao performs Whirlwind Strike as their main Musou attack with the game classifying it as a Multi-Strike type.; Speed Musou Attack - Scythe: Tap Both Sides of Screen: Zhang Liao launches multiple diagonal strikes in front of the opponent before releasing a radial shockwave.

Direct Breaks: Direct Break (Default) - Cavalry: Commands a group of cavalry units to charge forward.; Direct Break (Alternate) - Pikemen: Commands a group of cavalry units to charge forward.; Direct Break (Downloadable) - Bombardiers: Calls a group of bombardiers to throw explosives in tandem.

Stratagems: Stratagem Card (Default) - Fearsome Tale (遼来々; lit. "Liao is Coming"): Greatly decreases enemy army's defense.; Stratagem Card (Alternate) - Might Without Equal (比類なき刃; lit. "Unparalleled Blade"): Causes player's attacks to break through the enemy's guard.; Stratagem Card (Downloadable) - Heart and Soul (一球入魂; lit. "One Ball and One Spirit"): Increases player's attack and attack speed.; Allied Stratagem: If deployed as a playable officer, Zhang Liao will motivate himself and increase his own attack power during battle. Has a chance of happening from time to time.

Shin Sangoku Musou Online Z

Uses many of the same attacks offered by the twin axes moveset albeit with some differences.

Modified Attacks: Charge Attack 1: Performs an inward cross swing that sends out a mobile whirlwind.; Charge Attack 6: This move is identical to the eclipse charge attack.; Musou Attack: Releases an energy burst that burns and dazes foes before performing Zhang Liao's Whirlwind Strike Musou attack from Dynasty Warriors 7.

Special Abilities: Best Formation 1 - Crane Formation: 3 to 5 Units, Balanced Type; Best Formation 2 - Snake Formation: 3 to 5 Units, Defense Type; Best Formation 3 - Parallel Formation: 5 Units, Defense Type; Support Skill - Liao is Coming (遼来来): Briefly raises all allied units' defense power by 5%.

Dynasty Warriors: Overlords

Main Attacks: Strong Attack 1 (Dash): Throws both axes ahead one at a time to harm foes in front. Deals 180% attack damage and cannot be maneuvered to different directions once the move is activated. Its bonus effect enables the first hit to deal 44% attack damage to elite enemies while inflicting them with a debuff that increases the amount of damage they take by 18% for 8 seconds.; Strong Attack 1 (Break): Rams at the enemy with both axes briefly crossed before launching an outward cross swipe. Inflicts 150% attack damage. Its bonus effect allows it to deal an additional 380% attack damage on hit and greatly reduces their super armor bar. The effect itself triggers every 30 seconds.; Strong Attack 1 (Armor): Bends down and swings both axes in a reverse ascending arc, hitting nearby foes with 170% attack damage in the process. Its bonus effect grants nearby friendly units a shield that adds a 9% bonus to their health, a 30% damage reduction, and a minor super armor effect. It lasts for 8 seconds and triggers every 40 seconds.; Strong Attack 1 (Gather): Delivers criss-crossing slashes to the lower left and lower left, then unleashes an overwhelming pillar of energy via war cry. Deals 210% attack damage to surrounding enemies. Its bonus effect deals an additional 18% damage to all enemy troops within range and pulls them closer to the user. The effect itself triggers every 10 seconds.; Strong Attack 2: Does a low sweeping swipe on the ground that lifts foes into the air briefly. Deals 103% attack damage.; Strong Attack 3: Attempts to latch unto an enemy with a simple slash. Should the attack successfully connect, Zhang Liao follows up with two thrust attacks that deal a total of 400% attack damage in the process.; Strong Attack 4: Unleashes a wide purple energy wave forward via axe swing. Deals 100% attack damage to foes caught in its path and has a chance to freeze them.; Strong Attack 5: Performs a leaping charge before plunging both axes into the earth, producing a blue-colored slam effect. Deals 200% attack damage to foes while sending them airborne.; Strong Attack 6: Eviscerates foes with a circular stream of swipes done clockwise followed by a wider radial slash done counterclockwise, dealing a total of 242% damage. Has a chance of freezing targets instantly.; Normal Attack 1: Raises right axe to slash diagonally to the lower left, inflicting 100% attack damage.; Normal Attack 2: Uses right axe to swipe backwards towards the right, dealing 100% attack damage to enemies in the front.; Normal Attack 3: Turns around to slash at a slanted angle in front. Deals 120% attack damage.; Normal Attack 4: Holds axe in a backhanded manner while swinging it at a raised angle, dealing 140% attack damage in the process.; Normal Attack 5: Lands a rightward diagonal slash that deals 190% attack damage.; Normal Attack 6: Pivots around before swiping backhandedly towards the left, inflicting 230% attack damage to enemies.

Special Attacks: EX Attack: Generates a powerful aura that deals 40% attack damage to surrounding foes while activating a purple glyph field around Zhang Liao for 8 seconds. The effect increases his attack by 20% and slows down nearby foes.; Musou Attack: Performing a rendition of his Whirlwind Strike Musou attack, Zhang Liao twirls both axes around while rushing forward, sweeping away enemies caught in his path before unleashing a tornado of multiple slashes on them. Inflicts a total of 980% attack damage.

Auxiliary Attacks: Dash Attack: Launches a diagonal slash using right axe while pivoting briefly.; Switch Attack: Drops down and drives both axes on the ground to produce a tremor effect that knocks away nearby targets. Only used in certain competitive modes.; Counter Attack: Dazes foes the moment they hit while blocking.; Evasion: Dashes forward slightly to avoid enemy attacks.

Horse Attacks: Horse Normal Attack: Delivers a series of short swipes to the right while on horseback.; Horse Kick Attack: Has horse unleash powerful kicks with its forelegs. Has a cooldown time of 8 seconds.; Horse Stomp Attack: Has horse stomp the ground hard. Has a cooldown time of 6 seconds.; Horse Musou Attack: Commands horse to charge forward at high speed for a short duration of time.

Joint War Enemy-Only Attacks: Enemy-Only Attack: As a Joint War boss in the Riding Alone for Thousands of Miles mission, Zhang Liao will occasionally move to the center and stab the ground, causing large rocks to jut out while generating a wide radial shockwave. The attack inflicts severe damage to players and can only be blocked by standing near Guan Yu as he erects a barrier to counter it.

Guild Expedition Enemy-Only Attacks: Enemy-Only Attack 1 - Iron Armor: During the first tier mission of the Sili expedition stage, Zhang Liao will receive a 10% increase in defense if he is not defeated within 10 minutes.; Enemy-Only Attack 2 - Thunderclap: Causes EX attack to send down lightning bolts around Zhang Liao.; Enemy-Only Attack 3 - Electric Induction: Zhang Liao's attacks will randomly electrocute players, preventing them from dodging or somersaulting for a short period of time. Fortunately, items that provide brief immunity against the debuff may pop up every now and then.

General Tactics: Thunder: Increases Musou regeneration in battle by 4%. Effects increase the higher Zhang Liao's star ranking becomes.; Extremity: Gains 250 Musou points at the start of every battle. Effects increase the higher Zhang Liao's star ranking becomes.; Axe Shadow: Causes EX attack to bestow a 15 second buff that imbues subsequent hits with a 10% chance of freezing foes.

Combat Soul Skills: Heaven Combat Soul Skill: Recovers 8 extra Musou points upon attacking slowed or frozen enemies. Bonus increases the higher the combat soul's ranking rises.; Earth Combat Soul Skill: Adds 3 more hits to Musou attack with each one dealing 113% attack damage. Bonus increases the higher the combat soul's ranking rises.; Human Combat Soul Skill: Gains 4% attack per second when near slowed or frozen enemies. Can be stacked up to 5 times. Bonus increases the higher the combat soul's ranking rises.

Skin Skills: Suit Skill: Causes Musou attack to deal 2% additional damage to every foe that has been slowed down and converts into health for Zhang Liao.; Ornament Skill: Gains a 7% boost in defense for 10 seconds after hitting frozen enemies.

Horse Skills: Golden Scale: Causes EX attack to deal 36% more damage to frozen and slowed enemies for 10 seconds.; Bachong: Causes EX attack to deal 54% more damage to frozen and slowed enemies for 10 seconds.; Clustered Gleam: Causes EX attack to deal 90% more damage to frozen and slowed enemies for 10 seconds.; Ghost Candle: Causes EX attack to deal 90% more damage to frozen and slowed enemies for 10 seconds.; Shadow Runner: Causes EX attack to deal 90% more damage to frozen and slowed enemies for 10 seconds.; Purple Sun: Increases damage dealt in battle by 10%.

Team Combination: A Leaf in the Storm; Required Characters: Zhang Liao, Sun Quan; Bonus: +13,333 Health, +1,058 Attack

Boost the Morale

Required Characters: Zhang Liao, Diaochan

Bonus: +10,111 Health, +802 Attack

Hero Affection

Required Characters: Zhang Liao, Guan Yu

Bonus: +13,333 Health, +1,058 Attack

Heroic Bearing

Required Characters: Zhang Liao, Lu Bu

Bonus: +13,333 Health, +1,058 Attack

Ethereal

Required Characters: Zhang Liao, Cai Wenji, Wang Yi

Bonus: +16,778 Health, +1,332 Attack

Special Skill: Gives attacks a 14% chance of summoning extremely cold ice to strike the enemy, dealing 240% attack as extra damage and freezing them for 3 seconds. Has a 4 second cooldown time.

One Mind

Required Characters: Zhang Liao, Xu Huang, Zhang He

Bonus: +16,778 Health, +1,332 Attack

Joint Skill: Zhang Liao can trigger a unique joint attack with Xu Huang and Zhang He provided that the three of them are in the same team together. Letting out an electrifying roar to signal the assault, he follows up Xu Huang's launching strike by slowly descending down from the air while spin slashing continuously. He then swings both axes down on his victims, causing them to plummet to the floor. Upon landing, Zhang Liao and his companions are enveloped within a red hurricane that briefly bursts into light.

Mainstay of Wei

Required Characters: Xiahou Dun, Dian Wei, Xu Zhu, Xiahou Yuan, Zhang Liao

Bonus: +33,333 Health, +2,646 Attack

Warriors Orochi 3

Zhang Liao retains his weapon moveset from Dynasty Warriors 7 albeit with some changes and additions.

Changed Attacks: Jump Charge: : Slams both weapons on the floor.

Team Abilities: Ability 1 - Fellowship: Increases damage inflicted with switch combos for all team members.; Ability 2 - Trinity: Refills True Triple Attack by a set amount for every 100 KOs per member. Only available in Warriors Orochi 3 Ultimate.

Special Attacks: Musou Attack: : Zhang Liao performs Whirlwind Strike as their ground Musou attack.; Counter Attack: Counter + L1 + : Quickly swats away an enemy's attack, causing them to stagger briefly.; Assist Attack: Counter + L1 or R1: Zhang Liao performs the fourth charge attack to assist a teammate while surrounded within an updraft of wind for extra coverage.

Grounded Type Action: R1: Spins around clockwise at high-speed with both axes held out, then ends with a lifting cross slash that produces a powerful tremor.

Midair Type Action:

R1: Performs a slanted radial spin slash accompanied by a vertical swing using both axes. Can inflict non-draining weapon elements.

Shift Step: Direction + L1 +

: Performs a sidestep strafe primarily used for evasive purposes. Can be canceled into an instant dash attack by tapping

while in shift step position. In Ultimate, pressing

upon being hit will cause the user to automatically back away from their attacker.

Normal Strategy Card: Indomitable Courage (遼来々; lit. "Liao is Coming"): Sends an energy projectile flying towards the opponent. If it connects, the target's defense power will be reduced.

Golden Strategy Card: Warrior's Dignity (武人の矜持): Attacks opponent with a blue hurricane traveling forward. Good for taking out approaching foes.

Team Attacks: Triple Rush 1: Sends out a mobile shockwave via forward cross slash.; Triple Rush 2: Swings both axes back and forth multiple times while up in the air.; Triple Rush 3: Does an outward cross slash that produces a massive energy wave traveling on the ground below.; Unique Triple Rush: If Xu Huang and Zhang He are his teammates, Zhang Liao will be able to perform a unique triple rush attack alongside them. He begins the assault by unleashing a powerful whirlwind in front of him via outward cross swing.

Fighting Style

Keys:

Normal Attack •

Charge Attack •

Musou •

Jump/Mount

Base Game

Sample video of Zhang Liao's fighting style.

Zhang Liao is affiliated with the twin axes in this title. When equipped with it, Zhang Liao can perform the following unique attacks listed below.

EX Attack 1:

: Zhang Liao encases himself within a blue flaming aura that knocks back nearby opponents. It also bestows him with a buff that improves his attack speed and movement speed for 8 seconds.

EX Attack 2:

: Does a powerful ram at a short distance while covered in purple energy bursts, then leaps in the air to perform a cross slash trailing with deep blue streaks. Introduced in Xtreme Legends.

Musou Attack - Whirlwind Strike (斬馬撃; lit. "Slashing Horse Attack"):

: Charges forward while holding out and spinning both axes separately in each hand, then finishes the move with a whirling spin attack that envelops Zhang Liao within a purple tornado.

Alternate Musou Attack - Lightning Kick (迅雷脚; lit. "Greased Lightning Kick"): R1 +

: Uses right-handed axe to stab and stun the nearest opponent. If the first stab hits, Zhang Liao will momentarily turn his back to the dazed foe and proceed to hit them with a roundhouse kick accompanied simultaneously by a lightning-infused slash.

Aerial Musou Attack - Slicing Winds (斬鳳撃; lit. "Slashing Phoenix Attack"):

: Twirls both weapons at high speed repeatedly while in mid-air before stabbing them on the ground and performing a rising slash afterwards.

Rage Attack: Does a series of quick diagonal swings done back and forth while moving forward. The attack ends with Zhang Liao performing a crouching cross slash that emits a sudden burst of energy around the vicinity.

True Rage Attack: Upon accumulating 100 or more hits during his Rage attack, Zhang Liao will slash diagonally upward and fully downward using both axes while jumping repeatedly, then skewer foes four times in a row once he stops leaping forth.

Dynasty Warriors 8: Xtreme Legends

Bodyguard Skills: Battle Skill - Emergency Support: Causes items to appear upon approaching the user.; Assistance Skill - Growth: Causes enemies to occasionally drop growth items when defeated.; Rouse Skill - Assault: Increases the attack power of bodyguards when they are near death.

Dynasty Warriors 8: Empires

Ways of Life Skills: Ways of Life - Undefeated Veteran: Brave Type, 3,000 Employment Cost; Fixed Strategy - Large Draft: Uses up plenty of resources to recruit a large amount of troops.; Stratagem Card 1 - Resolute Defense: Renders the user invincible, preventing their health from being fully depleted for 15 seconds.; Stratagem Card 2 - Spot Turret: Places a turret that increases the durability of allied bases including the main camp.; Stratagem Card 3 - Bowman Turret: Places a turret that fires down arrows on enemy bases within a 75 meter raidus.; Stratagem Card 4 - Dragnet: Captures one enemy officer in battle within 60 seconds.; Stratagem Card 5 - Cover Fire: Rains arrows across the battlefield for 60 seconds. Requires 2 allied units to temporarily withdraw for card to take effect.; Awarded Stratagem Card - Immovable: Prevents knockbacks and damage from enemies for 15 seconds.

Shin Sangoku Musou Blast

Original Card: Unit Type: Cavalry; Musou - Gale Rush (風迅閃): Dashes forward while twirling both axes around. Based on Zhang Liao's Whirlwind Strike Musou attack from the original game.; Skill - Liao is Coming (遼来々): Increases attack power for 60 seconds while destroying obstacles and siege weapons.; Team Effect - Wei Godspeed Formation: Reduces cooldown time for Musou attacks and skills in proportion to the amount of Wei officers on the team.

"Deep Black Terror" Card: Unit Type: Cavalry; Musou - Gale Rush (風迅閃): Dashes forward while twirling both axes around.; Skill - Dire Situation (決死態勢): Increases attack for 60 seconds while destroying obstacles and siege weapons.; Team Effect - Other Godspeed Formation: Reduces cooldown time for Musou attacks and skills in proportion to the amount of Other officers on the team.

Dynasty Warriors: Godseekers

Type Ability: Movement Flexibility: Allows for more mobility by ignoring an enemy unit's zone of control.

Normal Attacks: Dual Blades (双刃; lit. "Double Blades"): Hits a single foe.; Flying Edge (翔刃; lit. "Air Blades"): Hits a single foe. Lowers enemy's power by 10%.; Destructive Edge (破烈刃; lit. "Rupturing Blades"): Hits multiple foes.; Blade Storm (豪乱刃; lit. "Turmoil Blades"): Hits multiple foes.

EX Attacks: Dual Blades EX (双刃Ex; lit. "Double Blades EX"): Hits a single foe. Lowers enemy's defense by 10%.; Destructive Edge EX (破烈刃Ex; lit. "Rupturing Blades EX"): Hits multiple foes. Raises user's speed by 5%.

Musou Attacks: Whirlwind Strike (斬馬撃; lit. "Slashing Horse Attack"): Hits multiple foes.; Lightning Kick (迅雷脚; lit. "Greased Lightning Kick"): Hits multiple foes. Has a chance of paralyzing enemies.; Slicing Winds (斬鳳撃; lit. "Slashing Phoenix Attack"): Hits multiple foes.

Red Skills: First Strike: Increases strength by 50% and mobility by 2 for one turn only.; Close Quarters: Increases defense against close-range attacks, but weakens it against long-range attacks.; Remoteness: Increases defense against long-range attacks, but weakens it against close-range attacks.; Swift Foot: Increases mobility by 1.; Fearless Leader: Increases critical hit rate when allied morale is low.; Musou Master: Increases attack strength of Musou attacks.

Blue Skills: Relentless: Increases the effect of state reductions when the character attacks the enemy by 5%.; Relentless Duo: Increases the effect of state reductions when the character attacks the enemy by 10%.; Relentless Ultra: Increases the effect of state reductions when the character attacks the enemy by 20%.; Stun Effect: Occasionally induces enemies into a stunned state with attacks.; Frighten Effect: Occasionally induces enemies into a frightened state with attacks.; Burn Effect: Occasionally induces enemies into a burnt state with attacks.; Freeze Effect: Occasionally induces enemies into a frozen state with attacks.; Shock Effect: Occasionally induces enemies into a shocked state with attacks.; Poison Effect: Occasionally induces enemies into a poisoned state with attacks.; Enfeeble: Reduces the enemy's Musou gauge by 50%.

Green Skills: Recovery: Restores the health of the unit and any allied units within 1 adjacent square by 5% at the start of each turn.; Recovery Duo: Restores the health of the unit and any allied units within 1 adjacent square by 10% at the start of each turn.; Recovery Ultra: Restores the health of the unit and any allied units within 1 adjacent square by 15% at the start of each turn.; Purification: Removes influences from the unit and any allied units within 1 adjacent square with a success rate of 50% at the start of each turn.; Strength Vessel: Increases the strength of the unit and any allied units within 1 adjacent square by 5%.; Defense Vessel: Increases the defense of the unit and any allied units within 1 adjacent square by 5%.; Dexterity Vessel: Increases the dexterity of the unit and any allied units within 1 adjacent square by 5%.; Agility Vessel: Increases the agility of the unit and any allied units within 1 adjacent square by 5%.; Spirit Vessel: Increases the spirit of the unit and any allied units within 1 adjacent square by 5%.; Furor: Increases the energy of units in Synchro Mode.; Bolt: Increases the mobility of units in Synchro Mode.

Purple Skills: Health Springs: Increases the amount of health restored by 20%.; Musou Springs: Increases the amount of Musou restored by 20%.; Learner: Increases experience earned by 30%.; Learner Duo: Increases experience earned by 50%.; Learner Ultra: Increases experience earned by 100%.; Flurry: Increases the charge during attacks by 10%.; Flurry Duo: Increases the charge during attacks by 30%.; Flurry Ultra: Increases the charge during attacks by 50%.; Merciless: Enables character to occasionally defeat an enemy unit in a single attack.

Dynasty Warriors: Unleashed

Main Attacks: Strong Attack 1 - Ground Strike (裂地撃; lit. "Cracking Earth Blow"): Jumps forward and strikes the ground with both axes to produce a powerful shockwave that damages and stuns enemies. In the Japanese server, it has been reassigned to the fourth charge move slot and can even lower the defense power of targets. Has a cooldown time of 16 seconds (also 16 seconds in the Japanese server).; Strong Attack 2 - Stunning Slash (絶気斬): Slashes forward to unleash an energy wave that knocks away enemies in front of Zhang Liao. In the Japanese server, it has been reassigned to the first charge move slot. Has a cooldown time of 20 seconds (10 seconds in the Japanese server).; Strong Attack 3 - Power of Loyalty (忠義の力): Generates a radial shockwave to attack enemies while increasing own attack speed by 30% for 10 seconds. The Japanese server boosts the buff's effects to 60% while halving its duration time. It also deals additional shield damage. Has a cooldown time of 25 seconds (16 seconds in the Japanese server).; Strong Attack 4 - Army Slayer (破軍殺; lit. "Broken Army Slaughter"): Charges forward while enveloped within surging blue energy, then unleashes a powerful cross swipe to send foes flying. In the Japanese server, it has been reassigned to the fourth charge move slot and given a bleed effect. Has a cooldown time of 31 seconds (10 seconds in the Japanese server).; Normal Attack: Performs their preferred weapon's normal attack string.

Special Attacks: Musou Attack - Whirlwind Strike (斬馬撃; lit. "Slashing Horse Attack"): Spins at incredible speed with both axes to slice through numerous enemies while emanating violent blue energy. In the Japanese server, it also has an added effect of raising Zhang Liao's attack speed by 50% for 5 seconds. Gets overriden by the character's Rage attack once all three Musou gauges have been filled up.; Musou Rage Attack: Performs Rage attack once all three Musou gauges have been filled up.; Switch Attack: Drives both axes on the ground to produce a bright slamming effect.; Special Maneuver - Dodge: Charges for a brief moment to avoid incoming attacks.

Team Attacks: Triple Attack 2: Performs switch attack to contribute to the combo.; Triple Attack 3: Performs a shortened version of Army Slayer to contribute to the combo.

Global Server-Exclusive Passive Skills: Primary Skill - Primal Tiger: Increases attack speed of all officers by 10%.; Secondary Skill: Increases attack of dodge-type officers by 15%.; Tertiary Skill: Increases critical chance of Wei officers by 20%.

Japanese Server-Exclusive Passive Skills: Primary Skill: Increases Musou regeneration by 30%. Activates after filling up one Musou bar.; Secondary Skill: Causes normal attacks to inflict 30% fire damage for 5 seconds. Activates after filling up two Musou bars.

Team Combination: Battle of Hefei (合肥の激闘; "Fierce Battle of Hefei"); Required Characters: Zhang Liao, Taishi Ci; Bonus: Attack Speed +4.5%, Element Advantage +4%

Brave Loyalty (義の友誼; "Righteous Friendship")

Required Characters: Zhang Liao, Guan Yu

Bonus: Critical Chance +4.5%, Attack Speed +4%

Fierce Bravery (英風の武; "Heroic Military")

Required Characters: Zhang Liao, Zhao Yun

Bonus: Attack Speed +5%, Critical Damage +5%

Villains (爪牙の臣; "Claw and Fang Vassals")

Required Characters: Zhang Liao, Li Dian

Bonus: Attack Speed +4.5%, Skill Cooldown -3%

5 Wei Generals 1 (魏の猛将; "Wei's Ferocious Generals")

Required Characters: Zhang Liao, Xu Huang, Zhang He

Bonus: Attack Speed +4%, Critical Damage +4.5% (+9% in the Japanese server), Shield Damage +4.5% (+8% in the Japanese server)

Team Attack: Zhang Liao will be able to perform a triple attack if he happens to be partnered with Xu Huang and Zhang He. He is the last to act during the whole combo. Only applies to the global server.

5 Wei Generals 2 (曹操の功臣; "Meritorious Vassals of Cao Cao")

Required Characters: Zhang Liao, Yue Jin, Yu Jin

Bonus: Attack Speed +4%, Critical Damage +4.5% (+7% in the Japanese server), Musou Generation +3.5% (+9% in the Japanese server)

Famous Victory (合肥の英雄; "Heroes of Hefei")

Required Characters: Zhang Liao, Yue Jin, Li Dian

Bonus: Attack Speed +3.5%, Skill Cooldown -3%, Critical Damage +4.5% (+9% in the Japanese server)

Team Attack: Zhang Liao will be able to perform a triple attack if he happens to be partnered with Yue Jin and Li Dian. He is the last to act during the whole combo. Only applies to the global server.

Fearless Heroes (壮烈なる武; "Spectacular Military")

Required Characters: Dian Wei, Zhang Liao, Xu Zhu

Bonus: Attack Speed +4%, Defense +4%, Shield Damage +4.5% (+9% in the Japanese server)

Men of Might (逆境の英雄; "Heroes of Adversity")

Required Characters: Zhang Liao, Xu Huang, Guo Huai

Bonus: Critical Chance +3.5%, Attack +3.5%, Element Advantage +5%

Right Hands (鬼神の陣営; "Demon's Camp")

Required Characters: Zhang Liao, Lu Bu, Chen Gong

Bonus: Attack Speed +3.5%, Attack +4%, Musou Generation +3.5% (+7% in the Japanese server)

Team Attack: Zhang Liao will be able to perform a triple attack if he happens to be partnered with Lu Bu and Chen Gong. He is the second to act during the whole combo. Only applies to the global server.

Japanese Server-Exclusive Team Combination: Rivals (好敵手); Required Characters: Zhang Liao, Gan Ning; Bonus: Max Health +4%, Attack Speed +4%

Warriors Orochi 4

While retaining the same moveset from Dynasty Warriors 8: Xtreme Legends, Zhang Liao wields the Dáinsleif as their sacred treasure in this title. When equipped with it, Zhang Liao can perform the following attacks listed below.

Special Attacks: Musou Attack: : Zhang Liao performs Whirlwind Strike as their ground Musou attack.; Normal Magic: R1 + : Conjures a magic circle by raising Dáinsleif upward, releasing a radial shockwave and generating three clones of the user to aid them in battle. The clones themselves will act on their own before bursting into smoke after 13 seconds have passed. Since they count as separate units, the player will be able to benefit from their presence if equipped with a weapon that has the Assembly attribute.; Charge Magic: R1 + : Targets visible enemies within a horizontal line regardless of distance. Once locked on and activated, the targets are swept into the air before being knocked away via leftward slash. This attack cannot be blocked and will even hit downed foes.; Unique Magic: R1 + : Zhang Liao rotates Dáinsleif above himself a few times while generating surges of red energy from the ground, then swings it leftward to produce a radial shockwave that blows numerous enemies away.; Summon Magic: R1 + : Summons mount to Zhang Liao's side.

Miscellaneous Skills: Unity Magic Bonus: Power +3, Technique +2, Speed +3; Musou Effect - Empower: Temporarily raises attack, defense, and hit speed. Only applies in Battle Arena.; Divine Blessing 1 - Breakneck: Increases movement speed and attack speed. Only applies in Battle Arena.; Divine Blessing 2 - Raid: Increases movement speed and defense power for 5 seconds after switching. Only applies in Battle Arena.; Infinity Support Skill - Weapons: Increases the possibility of obtaining weapons. Only applies in Infinity Mode.

Type Skills: Hyper Armor: Passive: Prevents enemies from interrupting combos with normal attacks.; Guard Cancel: Holding L1: Cancels most attacks into a guarding stance, providing more opportunities to defend against enemy attacks.; Type Upgrade Skill 1 - Break: Grants all charge attacks guard-breaking properties.; Type Upgrade Skill 2 - Steadfast: Enables the character to guard against all types of attacks.; Type Upgrade Skill 3 - Resilience: Increases defense when armor is active.; Type Upgrade Skill 4 - Reflex: Increases damage of first hit performed after doing a guard cancel.; Type Upgrade Skill 5 - Eruptive: Temporarily increases attack when somersaulting with little health left.

Fighting Style

Keys:

Flow Attack •

Reactive Attack •

Musou •

Jump/Mount

Base Game

Sample video of Zhang Liao's fighting style.

Zhang Liao is affiliated with the twin axes in this title. When equipped with it, Zhang Liao can perform the following unique attacks listed below.

Unique Attacks: Unique Flow Attack Finisher: Enemy Standing + : Zhang Liao's unique finisher has him charge forward with his axes held crosswise and unleash a powerful cross swing that sends out energy waves at a short distance. Takes cues from his second EX attack in the previous installment.; Unique Trigger Attack: R1 + : Rushes forward and eventually delivers an upward cross swing to dizzy foes. Based on the twin axes moveset's first charge attack from previous games.; Special Technique: R1 + : Performs a spin hop that transitions into a ground slam using one axe. The impact generates an electric radial shockwave to stun and scatter surrounding enemies.; Musou Attack: : Does a series of quick diagonal swings done back and forth while moving forward. After ending the cycle of hits, Zhang Liao proceeds to charge forward while holding out and spinning both axes separately in each hand, then following it up with a fierce wide swing towards the left. The finisher from beginning to end is imbued with the wind element, allowing each hit to weaken targets momentarily. Combines aspects of Zhang Liao's Rage attack and Whirlwind Strike Musou from the previous game.; Aerial Musou Attack: : Twirls both weapons at high speed repeatedly while in mid-air before stabbing them on the ground and performing a rising slash afterwards. The finisher can inflict slash damage, making it quite useful in dealing with enemy officers. Based on Zhang Liao's Slicing Winds Musou attack from the eighth title.

Horse Maneuvers: Summon Horse: L2: Summon horse to the battlefield. Holding L2 as the horse approaches will allow the character to automatically mount them.; Auto-Run: Riding Mode + L2: Automatically runs towards a specified destination. If a destination has not been set, the horse will instead run towards the location of the player's currently selected mission.; Sprint: Riding Mode + Direction + R1: Causes horse to run at a faster pace. Doing so depletes their stamina each time.; Jump: Riding Mode + Direction + R2: Causes horse to jump high while running.; Horse Fast Attack: Riding Mode + : Performs a fast and seamless attack while mounted. The attack itself varies depending on what type of weapon is equipped and whether the enemy is grounded or airborne.; Horse Trigger Attack: Riding Mode + : Performs an attack that sends enemies flying into the air. May vary depending on what type of weapon is equipped.; Horse Musou Attack: Riding Mode + : Causes horse to sprint by consuming Musou instead of stamina.; Dismount Horse: Riding Mode + : Dismounts from horse and resumes default fighting stance.

Bow Maneuvers: Shooting Mode: 🡻: Pulls out bow and assumes archery stance. Can be cancelled by tapping 🡻 again.; Switch Arrows: 🡸 or 🡺: Switches between different types of arrows.; Bow Attack: Shooting Mode + : Fires current arrow at a target. Can lock on targets by tapping R3.; Lower Bow: Shooting Mode + : Lowers bow while squatting down.

Dynasty Warriors 9: Empires

Officer Skills: Secret Plan - Liao's Ascendency (遼来遼来; lit. "Liao is Here, Liao is Here!"): Temporarily increases own attack by a great amount and fills secret plan gauge for plans not in use by a moderate amount.; Military Unit: Cavalry; Title: Earth Shaker (驍名震天; lit. "Valiant Name Earthquake"); Unique Political Ploy - Great Military Exercise: Increases achievements of all officers within the target area by 1,200.; Reputation Bonus: Brave +50%, Commanding +80%, Ingenious +25%, Benevolent +80%, Evil -50%

Shin Sangoku Musou Apuri

Base Attacks: Normal Attack: Performs unique flow attack string from the base game using the twin axes. Available by default.; Aerial Attack: Performs aerial flow attack string from the base game.; Repel Attack: Performs knock-down trigger attack from the base game to repel foes.; Launch Attack: Performs launch trigger attack from the base game to lift foes into the air. Can be followed up with aerial flow hit string activated by repeatedly tapping the normal attack icon.; Stun Attack: Performs stun trigger attack from the base game to daze foes momentarily. Can be followed up with stun flow hit string activated by repeatedly tapping the normal attack icon.; Guard Break Attack: Performs guard break attack from the base game to break the enemy's guard. Can be followed up with down flow hit string activated by repeatedly tapping the normal attack icon.; Chain Attack: Performs down flow attack from the base game to repeatedly strike at foes. Does heavy damage, but cannot deplete the target's spirit. This move is mostly available to attack-type versions of Zhang Liao.; Endurance Attack: Performs separating attack from the base game while generating a protective aura that temporarily boosts defense. This move is mostly available to defense-type versions of Zhang Liao.; Sneak Attack: Performs dash attack from the base game to inflict heavy damage on the opponent's spirit. This move is mostly available to speed-type versions of Zhang Liao.; Missile Attack: Leaps into the air and fires a projectile that turns into a large tornado upon hitting the ground. Does decent damage from a distance, but cannot deplete the target's spirit. This move is mostly available to snipe-type versions of Zhang Liao.; Recover Attack: Performs separating attack from the base game while generating a healing circle that gradually restores health. Has no elemental variations with each upgraded version. This move is mostly available to special-type versions of Zhang Liao.

Special Attacks: Unique Attack 1 - Slashing Phoenix Attack (斬凰撃): Performs special technique from the base game. Available by default.; Unique Attack 2 - Slashing Onslaught Attack (斬猛撃): Performs unique trigger from the base game using the twin axes. Initially available for UR rank versions of its user, this move can be learned upon reaching level 170.; Musou Attack: Performs Musou attack from base game minus the looping animation. Consumes one full Musou gauge.; Aerial Musou Attack: Performs aerial Musou attack from base game. Consumes one full Musou gauge.; Super Musou Attack: Performs full Musou attack from base game. Consumes two full Musou gauges.

Auxiliary Attacks: Counter Attack: Performs counter attack from the base game by tapping the orange counter icon near the opponent once it pops up.; Finishing Attack: Performs finishing attack from the base game by tapping the golden finisher icon that appears once the opponent's spirit has been fully depleted.; Normal Evasion: Does a normal evasion maneuver on the ground to avoid enemy attacks. Can only be performed by attack-type and special-type versions of Zhang Liao.; Swift Evasion: Hovers in the air to avoid enemy attacks in an instant. Can only be performed by speed-type and snipe-type versions of Zhang Liao.; Piercing Evasion: Charges forth while hunched to avoid enemy attacks while dealing chip damage to foes blocking the way. Can only be performed by defense-type versions of Zhang Liao.

Normal Version Attacks

Class Type: Attack

Mystic Version Attacks

Class Type: Speed

Abyss Version Attacks

Class Type: Special

Dynasty Warriors 3 Version Attacks

Class Type: Defense

Other Skills

Memory Abilities: In Search of Unparalleled Might (比類なき武を求め); Characters: Zhang Liao; Rank: R; Bonus: +205 Musou; Skill - Anti-Equipment (防備): Reduces damage from siege weapons by 7%.

Unparalleled Blade - Dynasty Warriors 7 (比類無き刃『6』)

Characters: Zhang Liao

Rank: UR

Bonus: +1,467 Attack, +1,467 Health, +1,467 Willpower

Skill 1 - Restore (全快): Recovers 10 health and Musou points every 4 seconds.

Skill 2 - Technique (技撃): Increases skill attack damage by 10%.

Five Generals of Wei (魏の五大将軍)

Characters: Zhang Liao, Xu Huang, Zhang He, Yue Jin, Yu Jin

Rank: UR

Bonus: +579 Attack, +579 Health, +579 Willpower

Skill 1 - Recover (快復): Recovers 10 Musou points every 4 seconds.

Skill 2 - Ground Assault (地撃): Increases normal attack damage by 18%.

Mental Training (精神修行)

Characters: Zhang Liao, Xu Huang, Guan Yu

Rank: UR

Bonus: +579 Attack, +783 Musou, +393 Willpower

Skill 1 - Restore (全快): Recovers 10 health and Musou points every 4 seconds.

Skill 2 - Rampage (乱撃): Increases Musou attack damage by 18%.

The Path to Slaughter (修羅の道)

Characters: Zhang Liao, Lu Bu, Chen Gong, Lu Lingqi

Rank: UR

Bonus: +713 Attack, +713 Health, +713 Willpower

Skill 1 - Restore (全快): Recovers 10 health and Musou points every 4 seconds.

Skill 2 - Training (練磨): Increases commander experience in battle by 18%.

Team Combination: Those Who Follow the Same Back (同じ背を追う者); Required Characters: Zhang Liao, Lu Lingqi; Bonus: +100 Attack, +50 Willpower

Famous Officers of Hefei (合肥の名将)

Required Characters: Zhang Liao, Yue Jin, Li Dian

Bonus: +50 Attack, +100 Health, +50 Willpower

Guan Yu's One Thousand Li March (関羽千里行)

Required Characters: Xiahou Dun, Zhang Liao, Guan Yu

Bonus: +100 Attack, +50 Health, +50 Willpower

Under the Banner of the Strongest (最強の旗の下に)

Required Characters: Zhang Liao, Lu Bu, Chen Gong

Bonus: +100 Attack, +50 Health, +50 Musou

Fighting Style