Defeating Lu Bu in Dynasty Warriors: Origins: Strategies Revealed

“Among men, Lu Bu. Among horses, Red Hare.” “Do not pursue Lu Bu.” These phrases echo throughout Dynasty Warriors: Origins, emphasizing the daunting challenge of facing Lu Bu. Yet, for those brave enough to take him on, here’s a comprehensive guide on how to do so.

Table of contents

Should You Fight Lu Bu in Dynasty Warriors: Origins?Lu Bu’s First PhaseLu Bu’s Second PhaseLu Bu’s Final Phase

Should You Fight Lu Bu in Dynasty Warriors: Origins?

Facing Lu Bu in Dynasty Warriors: Origins is a formidable challenge. In my playthrough, it took over an hour to conquer this legendary warrior. However, there are compelling reasons to take him on.

Firstly, defeating Lu Bu earns you bragging rights—a true badge of honor in the gaming community. Secondly, depending on your allegiance with Shu or Wei, you may be forced to confront him during the Battle of Xiapi in Chapter 4. Lastly, triumphing over him at the Battle of Hulao Gate not only grants you the "The Strongest" trophy but also unlocks the game's final weapon, the halberd, in the post-game, providing significant incentives for the challenge.

Lu Bu’s First Phase

Preparation is key before engaging Lu Bu. Equip a weapon like a sword, capable of multiple hits and staggering him, along with Battle Arts that require minimal Bravery, activate quickly, and have a wide range. During my battle, I used Falcon Flurry, Mad Blade Rush, Absconding Slash, and Flying Dragon Slash. Accessories boosting health and defense, such as Divine Bird’s Wing and Divine Turtle’s Shell, are crucial as Lu Bu's attacks can rapidly deplete your health. Additionally, a weapon skill that increases Bravery with each Perfect Evade is essential, given the necessity of evasion in this fight.

Initially, Lu Bu rides his horse, Red Hare. His primary tactic in this phase is to charge around the battlefield, occasionally pausing to rest. Strike him with your Battle Arts during these brief moments, then retreat. His attacks have limited area of effect, except when Red Hare leaps and crashes down. At 80% health, Lu Bu dismounts, signaling the start of the true battle.

Lu Bu’s Second Phase

On foot, Lu Bu's agility and speed intensify. His red aura during rapid movements indicates he cannot be staggered or interrupted. Be ready to evade his three consecutive charges; if he charges without his spear, he's attempting to grab you—a move that can severely damage your health but is easily evaded.

His most dangerous move is signaled by an orange glow, leading to a barrage of three massive arrows fired thrice, capable of juggling and nearly annihilating your health. Use a Battle Art like Absconding Slash to cancel this attack from a distance; close-quarters options like Palm Strike will lead to certain death. Keep your Musou gauge ready for emergencies, as it grants temporary invincibility, crucial for surviving mistakes or Lu Bu's combos.

Lu Bu is surprisingly susceptible to juggling in this phase. Constant attacks can quickly charge your Battle Arts and deplete his Fortitude meter. Stay close to react promptly to his moves, and remember: evasion is your best defense.

Lu Bu’s Final Phase

Upon reaching his Musou Rage, Lu Bu enters the final phase, unleashing a relentless barrage of attacks without the possibility of staggering. Your objective is to deplete his Fortitude before he executes his Musou attack. Use all available resources—Musou attacks, Battle Arts, and rapid strikes. If he completes his Musou Attack, he'll immediately restart it, forcing you to begin this phase anew. Breaking his Fortitude here is essential to defeating this seemingly invincible foe.

And that's how to defeat Lu Bu in Dynasty Warriors: Origins! The game is now available for PS5, PC, and Xbox Series X/S.