Can You Extend Guo Jia Lifespan in Dynasty Warriors Origins?

Guo Jia, who was arguably Cao Cao’s most talented strategist, historically died in 207 AD due to an illness caused by the extreme climate during the campaign to exterminate the Yuan clan in the northern provinces. Dynasty Warriors 8 and Dynasty Warriors 9 had alternate scenarios where Guo Jia gets an extended lifespan as he manages to overcome his illness, so long-time series fans will wonder if there is a similar branch in Dynasty Warriors Origins.

The short answer here is: Yes, it is possible to extend the lifespan of Guo Jia in Dynasty Warriors Origins. But while you can read the detailed methods right below, be advised that they will contain major spoilers.

The stage that will determine the lifespan of Guo Jia in Dynasty Warriors Origins‘ storyline will be the Battle of Mt. Bailang. You will need to pay close attention to Guo Jia’s briefing notes before the battle, as you need to not only follow the instructions to the letter but also complete them swiftly.

The general gist is to quickly escort Xu Huang and Tian Chou to the ambush position on the west side of the map. However, do not let Yuan Xi—who is stationed at the center—notice their movements.

As soon as the battle starts, head forward and conquer the first base you see to your left so that Zhang He and Zhenji can engage Yuan Xi to distract him. Right after that, head south and conquer all the bases along the way to smoothen the marching path for Xu Huang and Tian Chou.

Once you have reached the western path, the protagonist’s rival Bailuan will appear to impede your progress. Defeat him to let Xu Huang and Tian Chou finish their preparations for the ambush attack.

If you hear Guo Jia complaining about his fatigue before you finish the above tasks, that means you are not quick enough to extend his lifespan and thus will have to start all over again. But if you manage to successfully get the “Fate Altered” sign, you are finally free to assist other combat areas across the battlefield, especially as Cao Cao and his bodyguards would usually start to struggle with their HPs at the southeast area.

As Guo Jia is one of the few companion characters available on Cao Cao’s faction route in Dynasty Warriors Origins, extending his lifespan here will also matter to his availability in subsequent battles. However, without spoiling further story details, Guo Jia’s availability as a companion will only be possible if you have previously rescued Dian Wei from his historical death in the same playthrough.

Dynasty Warriors Origins is available worldwide on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X, and PC.