Conquer the Iconic Battle of Hulao Gate in Dynasty Warriors: Origins

The Battle of Hulao Gate, a pivotal moment in Dynasty Warriors: Origins and a challenging encounter for many players, is detailed in this guide. This final stage of Chapter 2 requires defeating Dong Zhuo, a task demanding significant effort and likely multiple attempts.

Initial Strategy:

Begin by clearing the four enemy bases in the map's bottom right corner. Conquering two triggers a cutscene introducing mounted cavalry. Continue your base-clearing strategy; defeating Zhang Liao, the cavalry commander, rewards you with the twin pike weapon. Once all bases are secured, assault Hulao Gate.

Facing Lu Bu:

This initial assault on the gate leads to a chaotic battle. Prioritize protecting Cao Cao until he initiates his Grand Tactic, weakening the defenses and allowing for further advancement. At this point, Lu Bu arrives. Crucially, avoid engaging Lu Bu directly. He is overwhelmingly powerful. Instead, eliminate surrounding officers to maintain morale, which Lu Bu significantly depletes.

Lu Bu will eventually attack your main base (Yuan Shao). Resist the urge to pursue him; Liu Bei's forces will temporarily hold him off, giving you time to defeat Dong Zhuo. This creates a time limit; if Liu Bei's forces retreat, and Dong Zhuo isn't defeated, Lu Bu will defeat Yuan Shao, ending the mission.

Defeating Dong Zhuo:

After Lu Bu's departure, resupply at a conquered base if needed. Then, capture the northern and western bases. With all three squads prepared and your character fully healed, charge towards Dong Zhuo's commander's circle.

Dong Zhuo will use Grand Tactics, launching fireballs. Destroy the front two catapults to counter his first Grand Tactic. Musou Rage is highly recommended here. Break through the soldier barricade surrounding the catapults.

His second Grand Tactic involves another fireball barrage, countered by defeating an officer. Use the right-side stairs to reach the officer, but be aware of Diaochan, a defector fighting for Dong Zhuo. A duel with Diaochan is advantageous, simplifying the encounter.

After thwarting the second Grand Tactic, the path to Dong Zhuo is clear. Your forces should easily overwhelm his remaining troops. Dian Wei might even initiate a Grand Tactic, further assisting your assault. While a duel is tempting, a standard defeat of Dong Zhuo is sufficient at this point.

This concludes the Battle of Hulao Gate in Dynasty Warriors: Origins, available on PS5, PC, and Xbox Series X/S.