Defeating Lu Bu in Dynasty Warriors: Origins: Strategies Revealed

“Among men, Lu Bu. Among horses, Red Hare.” “Do not pursue Lu Bu.” These iconic phrases in Dynasty Warriors: Origins underscore the legendary challenge of facing Lu Bu. However, for those daring enough to take him on, here's how you can conquer this formidable adversary.

Table of Contents

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

Should You Fight Lu Bu in Dynasty Warriors: Origins?

Engaging Lu Bu is a daunting endeavor. In my experience with Dynasty Warriors: Origins, defeating him took over an hour, highlighting the intensity of the battle. However, there are compelling reasons to face him. Firstly, defeating Lu Bu grants you bragging rights—a true badge of honor among players. Secondly, your narrative path may necessitate confronting him; siding with Shu or Wei will inevitably lead to a showdown at the Battle of Xiapi in Chapter 4. Finally, triumphing over Lu Bu at the Battle of Hulao Gate earns you the prestigious "The Strongest" trophy, and a victory in the post-game rewards you with the game's ultimate weapon, the halberd.

Lu Bu’s First Phase

Preparation is key before challenging Lu Bu. Equip a weapon capable of multiple hits and staggering, such as a sword, along with Battle Arts that are quick to activate, require minimal Bravery, and have a wide range. In my successful run, I used Falcon Flurry, Mad Blade Rush, Absconding Slash, and Flying Dragon Slash. Additionally, bolster your survivability with accessories like Divine Bird’s Wing and Divine Turtle’s Shell to enhance health and defense. Lu Bu's attacks are devastating, making these boosts essential. Choose a weapon with a skill that grants Bravery for each Perfect Evade, as this will be your primary method of accumulating Bravery during the fight.

Initially, Lu Bu appears mounted on his horse, Red Hare. During this phase, he primarily charges around the battlefield. When he pauses, seize the opportunity to strike with your Battle Arts before retreating. His attacks have limited area of effect, except for Red Hare's ground-shaking jump, making them relatively manageable to dodge. Once Lu Bu's health drops to 80%, he dismounts, and the real challenge begins.

Lu Bu’s Second Phase

On foot, Lu Bu becomes a relentless force. His rapid movements and attacks are highlighted by a red aura, indicating he cannot be staggered or interrupted. Be vigilant for his charging sequences, which always come in sets of three. If he charges without his spear, he's attempting a grab that can severely deplete your health; evade these just as you would his other charges.

His most lethal move is signaled by an orange glow, culminating in a barrage of three massive arrows fired three times, capable of juggling and decimating your health. To counter this, utilize long-range Battle Arts like Absconding Slash. Close-range options like Palm Strike are suicidal in this scenario. Keep your Musou gauge ready for emergency invincibility, which can be a lifesaver if you misjudge a dodge or get caught in his combo.

Lu Bu can be juggled during this phase, allowing you to quickly charge your Battle Arts and break his Fortitude meter. Stay close to react effectively to his attacks, and remember to evade constantly.

Lu Bu’s Final Phase

As Lu Bu's health dwindles, he enters Musou Rage, marking the final phase. Now immune to staggering, he unleashes a relentless barrage of attacks. Your objective is to deplete his Fortitude before he executes his Musou Attack. Deploy all your remaining resources—activate your Musou attacks, use your Battle Arts, and strike with precision and speed. If Lu Bu completes his Musou Attack, he'll immediately reactivate it, forcing you to restart the phase. Successfully breaking his Fortitude here will allow you to triumph over this legendary 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.