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 are woven throughout Dynasty Warriors: Origins, serving as a stark warning – don't fight Lu Bu. But what if you want to challenge him? Here's a detailed guide on how to take on 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?

Fighting Lu Bu is a daunting challenge. In my playthrough of Dynasty Warriors: Origins, it took over an hour to conquer this legendary warrior. However, there are compelling reasons to engage him in battle.

Firstly, defeating Lu Bu earns you bragging rights. Overcoming such a formidable opponent is a significant achievement and a badge of honor. Secondly, you might not have a choice. If you align with Shu or Wei, you'll face Lu Bu during the Battle of Xiapi in Chapter 4. Lastly, defeating him at the Battle of Hulao Gate not only grants you the "The Strongest" trophy but also unlocks the game's ultimate weapon, the halberd, in the post-game, providing strong incentives to take him on.

Lu Bu’s First Phase

Preparation is key before battling 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, have a wide range, and don't require much Bravery. In my fight, I used 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 essential. Lu Bu's attacks are devastating, so maximizing your survivability is crucial. Additionally, choose a weapon with a skill that grants Bravery for each Perfect Evade, as this will be your primary method of gaining Bravery during the fight.

In most encounters, Lu Bu starts the battle mounted on his horse, Red Hare. This initial phase is relatively straightforward. Lu Bu charges around the battlefield at high speed but occasionally pauses to rest. Use these moments to hit him with your Battle Arts before retreating. His attacks have a limited area of effect, except for Red Hare's aerial jump and crash. Once Lu Bu's health drops to 80%, he dismounts, and the real battle begins.

Lu Bu’s Second Phase

On foot, Lu Bu becomes even more formidable. His attacks are swift and he moves rapidly across the battlefield. A red aura signals that he cannot be staggered during his combos. When he charges, evade and prepare for additional charges, as he always attacks in sets of three. If he charges without his spear, he's attempting to grab you, which can severely deplete your health, but it's easily evaded like his other charges.

His most dangerous move is when he glows orange. With minimal preparation time, he launches three massive arrows in three volleys, capable of juggling and devastating your health. A long-range Battle Art like Absconding Slash is crucial to cancel this attack. Close-quarters Battle Arts like Palm Strike will lead to your demise. Keep your Musou gauge charged for emergencies; its invincibility can save you if you mistime a dodge or get caught in a combo.

Fortunately, Lu Bu is susceptible to juggling during this phase. Hitting him with consecutive attacks quickly charges your Battle Arts and breaks his Fortitude meter. Stay close to react swiftly to his attacks, and remember to evade frequently.

Lu Bu’s Final Phase

When Lu Bu's health is sufficiently depleted, he enters Musou Rage, signaling the final phase. Now unstaggered, he unleashes relentless volleys of attacks. Your objective is to deplete his Fortitude before he executes his Musou attack. With no chance to stagger him, you must use all your remaining resources. Deploy your Musou attacks when he approaches, use your Battle Arts, and strike fast and hard. If he completes his Musou Attack, he'll immediately reactivate it, forcing you to restart the phase. Breaking his Fortitude here allows you to finally defeat this seemingly invincible warrior.

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.