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 from Dynasty Warriors: Origins underscore the formidable nature of Lu Bu, warning players against engaging him in battle. However, for those daring enough to challenge him, here's a comprehensive guide on how to conquer this legendary warrior.

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?

Battling Lu Bu is a daunting challenge, but it can be incredibly rewarding. In my experience with Dynasty Warriors: Origins, defeating Lu Bu took over an hour, highlighting the difficulty of this encounter. However, there are compelling reasons to face him.

Firstly, defeating Lu Bu earns you significant bragging rights. Overcoming such a formidable opponent is a testament to your skill and perseverance. Secondly, depending on your chosen faction, you may have no choice but to confront him. If you align with Shu or Wei, you'll face Lu Bu during the Battle of Xiapi in Chapter 4. Additionally, 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. These incentives make challenging Lu Bu a worthwhile endeavor.

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. Choose Battle Arts that activate quickly, require minimal Bravery, and have a broad range. My successful setup included Falcon Flurry, Mad Blade Rush, Absconding Slash, and Flying Dragon Slash. Additionally, wear accessories that boost your health and defense, such as Divine Bird’s Wing and Divine Turtle’s Shell, to withstand Lu Bu's powerful attacks. Lastly, select a weapon with a skill that grants Bravery for each Perfect Evade, as this will be crucial for managing your resources during the fight.

In Dynasty Warriors: Origins, Lu Bu typically starts the battle mounted on his legendary horse, Red Hare. During this phase, Lu Bu charges around the battlefield at high speed. However, he pauses occasionally, providing windows for attack. Use these moments to hit him with your Battle Arts before retreating. His attacks have limited area-of-effect, except when Red Hare performs a jumping attack. 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 dangerous. His attacks are swift, and he moves rapidly across the battlefield, often surrounded by a red aura that makes him immune to staggering. When he charges, he does so in sets of three, so be prepared to evade repeatedly. If he charges without his spear, he's attempting a grab that can severely damage your health, but it's easily dodged like his other charges.

His most lethal move is signaled by an orange glow. With minimal preparation time, Lu Bu launches three massive arrows in three volleys, capable of juggling and decimating your health. To counter this, use a ranged Battle Art like Absconding Slash to interrupt him. Close-quarters Battle Arts like Palm Strike are too risky and likely fatal. Keep your Musou gauge charged for emergencies, as it grants invincibility and can save you from fatal mistakes.

Lu Bu is surprisingly vulnerable to juggling during this phase. By chaining multiple attacks, you can quickly charge your Battle Arts and deplete his Fortitude meter. Stay close to him to better anticipate his moves and focus on evading his attacks.

Lu Bu’s Final Phase

When Lu Bu's health is sufficiently reduced, he enters Musou Rage, marking the beginning of the final phase. Now immune to staggering, Lu Bu unleashes a relentless barrage of attacks. Your objective is to break his Fortitude before he can execute his Musou Attack. Use all your remaining resources—activate Musou attacks, deploy Battle Arts, and strike him with everything you've got. If Lu Bu successfully performs his Musou Attack, he'll immediately reactivate it, forcing you to restart the phase. Successfully breaking his Fortitude in this phase will finally allow you to defeat him.

And that's how you can triumph over Lu Bu in Dynasty Warriors: Origins! The game is now available on PS5, PC, and Xbox Series X/S.