Defeating Lu Bu in Dynasty Warriors: Origins: Proven Strategies

“Among men, Lu Bu. Among horses, Red Hare.” “Do not pursue Lu Bu.” These iconic phrases from Dynasty Warriors: Origins underscore the formidable nature of Lu Bu, yet the challenge of facing him can be irresistible. If you’re determined to take on this legendary warrior, here’s a detailed guide on how to do it.

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. In my experience, it took over an hour to finally defeat him. However, there are compelling reasons to take on this battle. Firstly, defeating Lu Bu earns you significant bragging rights; it’s a true badge of honor. Secondly, your story path may leave you with no choice but to confront him. If you align with Shu or Wei, you'll inevitably face Lu Bu during the Battle of Xiapi in Chapter 4. Lastly, victory at the Battle of Hulao Gate not only rewards you with the prestigious "The Strongest" trophy but also, if you triumph in the post-game, the game’s ultimate weapon, the halberd, making the battle well worth the effort.

Lu Bu’s First Phase

Preparation is key before facing Lu Bu. Equip a weapon, such as a sword, capable of multiple hits to stagger him. Choose Battle Arts like Falcon Flurry, Mad Blade Rush, Absconding Slash, and Flying Dragon Slash, which require minimal Bravery, activate quickly, and have a wide range. Accessories like Divine Bird’s Wing and Divine Turtle’s Shell will boost your health and defense, crucial for surviving Lu Bu’s powerful attacks. Additionally, select 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 the initial phase, Lu Bu rides his iconic horse, Red Hare. He charges around the battlefield, occasionally pausing to rest. Use these moments to strike with your Battle Arts before retreating. His attacks have limited area of effect, except for Red Hare’s aerial crash, making them relatively easy to dodge. Once Lu Bu’s health drops to 80%, he dismounts, signaling the start of the real battle.

Lu Bu’s Second Phase

On foot, Lu Bu becomes even more dangerous. His swift attacks and rapid movement across the battlefield are marked by a red aura, indicating he cannot be staggered. He often charges in sets of three; evade these and be wary of his grab attack, which can severely deplete your health but is easily dodged.

His most lethal move is signaled by an orange glow, leading to a barrage of three massive arrows fired three times, capable of juggling and devastating your health. To counter this, use a long-range Battle Art like Absconding Slash. Close-quarters Battle Arts like Palm Strike are too risky and likely fatal. Keep your Musou gauge charged for emergency invincibility, which can save you from fatal mistakes.

Lu Bu is surprisingly vulnerable to juggling in this phase. Continuous attacks will quickly charge your Battle Arts and deplete his Fortitude meter. Stay close to react swiftly to his moves, and remember, evasion is your best defense.

Lu Bu’s Final Phase

When Lu Bu’s health is sufficiently low, he enters Musou Rage, marking the final phase. He becomes unstaggered and unleashes a relentless volley of attacks. Your objective is to break his Fortitude before he executes his Musou attack. Use all your remaining resources—activate Musou attacks, deploy Battle Arts, and strike with everything you have. If Lu Bu completes his Musou attack, he’ll immediately restart it, forcing you to repeat the phase. Breaking his Fortitude here is crucial to ending the battle and defeating this legendary adversary.

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.