Defeating Lu Bu: Strategies for Dynasty Warriors: Origins

“Among men, Lu Bu. Among horses, Red Hare.” “Do not pursue Lu Bu.” These phrases, which are peppered throughout Dynasty Warriors: Origins, send a very clear message – don’t fight Lu Bu. But… what if you want to? Well, here’s how.

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 daunting challenge that can take over an hour to overcome. Yet, there are compelling reasons to take on this formidable opponent. Firstly, defeating Lu Bu earns you bragging rights – it's a true badge of honor in the gaming community. Secondly, depending on your allegiance to either Shu or Wei, you might find yourself with no choice but to confront him in Chapter 4 at the Battle of Xiapi. Additionally, victory at the Battle of Hulao Gate not only grants you the "The Strongest" trophy but also unlocks the game's final 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 potentially stagger him. Choose Battle Arts that are quick to activate, require minimal Bravery, and have a wide range. My successful setup included Falcon Flurry, Mad Blade Rush, Absconding Slash, and Flying Dragon Slash. Enhance your survivability with accessories such as Divine Bird’s Wing and Divine Turtle’s Shell to boost your health and defense. Lu Bu’s attacks can rapidly deplete your health, making these accessories crucial. Also, select a weapon with a skill that rewards Bravery for each Perfect Evade, as this will be your primary source of Bravery during the fight.

Initially, Lu Bu will be mounted on his legendary horse, Red Hare. During this phase, he primarily charges around the battlefield. He's swift but will pause occasionally to rest. Use these moments to strike with your Battle Arts before retreating. His attacks have a limited area of effect, except when Red Hare leaps and crashes down. Once Lu Bu's health drops to 80%, he dismounts, signaling the start of a more intense battle.

Lu Bu’s Second Phase

On foot, Lu Bu becomes even more formidable, with rapid attacks and swift movements across the arena. When he's enveloped in a red aura, he's invulnerable to stagger or interruption. Watch for his charging sequences; he always charges three times in a row. If he charges without his spear, he’s attempting a grab that can severely damage your health – evade these moves promptly.

His most lethal move is signaled by an orange glow. With minimal preparation time, Lu Bu fires three massive arrows in three volleys, capable of juggling you and draining your health rapidly. Counter this with long-range Battle Arts like Absconding Slash. Avoid close-range moves like Palm Strike, as they'll leave you vulnerable. Keep your Musou gauge charged for emergency invincibility, which can save you from fatal errors.

Lu Bu can be juggled easily in this phase. Continuous attacks will quickly charge your Battle Arts, helping you break his Fortitude meter faster. Stay close to better anticipate and evade his attacks.

Lu Bu’s Final Phase

When Lu Bu's health is sufficiently depleted, he enters Musou Rage, initiating the final phase. Now unstaggered, he unleashes a relentless barrage of attacks. Your objective is to deplete his Fortitude before he executes his Musou Attack. Use all your remaining resources – activate Musou attacks when he's near, deploy Battle Arts, and strike with speed and precision. If he completes his Musou Attack, he'll immediately reactivate it, forcing you to restart this phase. Breaking his Fortitude here will finally allow you to defeat this legendary adversary.

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