Range: 2
When the target of an attack receives damage and does not have any hand cards, the damage is increased by one.
The weapon’s ability is not optional—it is mandatory. If an ally is attacked and has no cards, they will suffer increased damage due to this weapon’s effect.
Any additional damage bonuses, such as those from Wine, are added on top of the weapon’s ability.
Characters that Remove Hand Cards:
Characters who can strip an opponent of all their cards can make the most of this weapon, as it punishes defenseless targets with increased damage. Ideal users include Sun Jian, Lu Su, Gan Ning, and Zhang Liao.
Zhuge Liang:
Although Zhuge Liang often has no hand cards, he cannot be targeted when he is empty-handed due to his ability. While it is technically possible to hit him with this weapon, creating the necessary conditions is challenging.
Lu Xun:
Lu Xun is immune to the Ancient Scimitar’s effect. His ability allows him to immediately draw a card after losing his last one, ensuring he is never without a hand at any point.
Generals That Willingly Lose Cards:
Characters like Liu Bei, Xu Shu, Lu Su, and Yuan Shu, who often lose cards intentionally, need to be wary of the Ancient Scimitar. If they are caught without cards, their situation can deteriorate rapidly. Even if they manage to draw a few cards, they are vulnerable to having them taken away again, making recovery difficult.
Affectionately known as 'The Punisher,' the Ancient Scimitar is best saved for the right moment. Keeping it in hand until an opponent is vulnerable allows you to catch them off guard and deal devastating damage. If you equip it too early, opponents will be cautious and make sure to hold onto cards. Without the element of surprise, it can be challenging to catch someone without cards. This weapon is most effective later in the game when players are running low on resources—this is when the Ancient Scimitar can put a definitive end to the game.
The Ancient Scimitar is believed to have been owned by Sun Jian. Although not mentioned in his recorded battles, Sun Jian was a fierce and aggressive warrior, making it likely he would have wielded such a powerful blade. Sun Jian’s combat career began at a young age when he fought pirates alongside his father, earning him the title 'Tiger of Jiangdong.' He later played a pivotal role in the coalition against Dong Zhuo, where he led the charge for the coalition’s eighteen lords. Sadly, Sun Jian met his end during a campaign against Liu Biao.