Defeating Lu Bu in Dynasty Warriors: Origins: Strategy Guide

“Among men, Lu Bu. Among horses, Red Hare.” “Do not pursue Lu Bu.” These iconic phrases from Dynasty Warriors: Origins underscore a clear warning: steer clear of Lu Bu. Yet, for those daring enough to challenge him, here’s a comprehensive guide on how to conquer this formidable foe.

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?

Taking on Lu Bu in Dynasty Warriors: Origins is no small feat. In my experience, it required over an hour to finally best him. However, there are compelling reasons to face him. Firstly, defeating Lu Bu is a testament to your skill, offering bragging rights that few can claim. Secondly, depending on your allegiance with Shu or Wei, you might 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 earns you the trophy "The Strongest," but also the game's ultimate weapon, the halberd, if you defeat him in the post-game.

Lu Bu’s First Phase

Preparation is key before engaging Lu Bu. Equip a weapon like a sword that can deliver multiple hits and stagger him, along with Battle Arts that are quick to activate and have a broad range. My setup included Falcon Flurry, Mad Blade Rush, Absconding Slash, and Flying Dragon Slash. Accessories that boost your health and defense, such as Divine Bird’s Wing and Divine Turtle’s Shell, are crucial as Lu Bu's attacks can quickly deplete your health. Additionally, choose a weapon with a skill that rewards Bravery for Perfect Evades, as this will be your primary means of gaining Bravery during the fight.

In the initial phase, Lu Bu rides his legendary horse, Red Hare. He primarily charges around the battlefield, occasionally pausing to rest. Strike him with your Battle Arts during these brief pauses, then retreat. His attacks have limited area of effect, except for Red Hare's jump attack, making them manageable to dodge. Once Lu Bu's health drops to 80%, he dismounts, signaling the start of the true battle.

Lu Bu’s Second Phase

On foot, Lu Bu becomes even more dangerous. His swift attacks and rapid movement across the arena, often marked by a red aura, make him immune to staggering during these moments. Be prepared for his triple charge attacks; if he charges without his spear, he’s attempting a grab that can severely damage your health, but it's easily evaded like his other charges.

His most lethal move is signaled by an orange glow. With minimal warning, he launches three massive arrows thrice, which can juggle and decimate your health. Here, a Battle Art like Absconding Slash is vital to cancel his attack from a distance. Close-quarters Battle Arts like Palm Strike are suicide in this scenario. Keep your Musou gauge charged for emergencies, offering a brief invincibility that can save you from a fatal mistake.

Lu Bu is surprisingly susceptible to juggling during this phase. Continuously attacking him can quickly charge your Battle Arts, helping to break his Fortitude meter. Stay close to better anticipate and evade his attacks.

Lu Bu’s Final Phase

When Lu Bu's health is sufficiently reduced, he enters Musou Rage, marking the final phase. Now unstoppable, he unleashes a relentless barrage of attacks. Your goal is to deplete his Fortitude before he executes his Musou Attack. Use every tool at your disposal: activate your Musou attacks when he's near, deploy your Battle Arts, and strike with all your might. If he successfully performs his Musou Attack, he'll immediately reactivate it, forcing you to restart the phase. Breaking his Fortitude here is your key to victory.

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.