Conquer the Iconic Battle of Hulao Gate in Dynasty Warriors: Origins

The Battle of Hulao Gate, a legendary clash in the Dynasty Warriors series, presents a formidable challenge in Dynasty Warriors: Origins. This guide will help you overcome this crucial stage in Chapter 2. The objective: defeat Dong Zhuo.

Initial Assault:

Begin by capturing the four enemy bases in the map's bottom right corner. Conquering two triggers a cutscene introducing mounted cavalry. Continue your base-by-base assault; defeating Zhang Liao, the cavalry commander, rewards you with a twin pike weapon. Once all bases are secured, attack Hulao Gate.

The First Stand Against Dong Zhuo:

This initial battle is chaotic. Prioritize protecting Cao Cao until he initiates his Grand Tactic. This weakens the defenses, allowing you to advance towards Hulao Gate.

Lu Bu's Arrival (and Why You Should Ignore Him):

Dong Zhuo deploys Lu Bu. Avoid direct confrontation. A one-on-one fight is suicidal. Instead, eliminate enemy officers around Lu Bu to maintain morale, which his presence significantly drains. Lu Bu will eventually target your main base and Yuan Shao. Resist the urge to pursue him; Liu Bei's forces will provide a temporary defense, giving you time to defeat Dong Zhuo. This creates a time limit; if Liu Bei's forces retreat, and you haven't significantly weakened Dong Zhuo, Lu Bu will defeat Yuan Shao, ending the mission.

Focusing on Dong Zhuo:

After Lu Bu's departure, resupply at a captured base if needed. Then, secure the northern and western bases. With all three squads poised for attack and your health replenished, charge towards Dong Zhuo's commander's circle.

Dong Zhuo's Grand Tactics:

Dong Zhuo will unleash two Grand Tactics involving fireballs. The first requires destroying two catapults. Use Musou Rage (if available) to break through the soldier barricade protecting them. Eliminate surrounding soldiers and officers to clear a path for your troops to destroy the catapults.

The second Grand Tactic necessitates defeating an officer. Take the right-hand stairs; you'll encounter Diaochan, a formidable opponent who has joined Dong Zhuo. If possible, duel her to avoid fighting her and the officer simultaneously.

The Final Push:

Once the second Grand Tactic is countered, the path to Dong Zhuo is clear. Your forces should be strong enough to overwhelm his remaining troops. Dian Wei might even launch a Grand Tactic, further assisting your assault. While tempting, a direct duel with Dong Zhuo isn't necessary; he and his forces will be significantly weakened.

Victory is yours! You've conquered the Battle of Hulao Gate in Dynasty Warriors: Origins, available on PS5, PC, and Xbox Series X/S.