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 significant challenge in Dynasty Warriors: Origins. This guide will help you overcome this difficult stage, the final chapter of Chapter 2, where your objective is to defeat Dong Zhuo.

Initial Strategy:

Begin by capturing the four enemy bases in the map's bottom right corner. After securing two, a cutscene will trigger, introducing mounted cavalry. Continue your base conquest; defeating Zhang Liao, the cavalry commander, rewards you with the twin pike weapon. Once all bases are under your control, assault Hulao Gate.

The First Confrontation:

The initial battle is chaotic. Prioritize protecting Cao Cao until he initiates his Grand Tactic, weakening enemy defenses and paving your way towards Hulao Gate.

Lu Bu's Arrival:

Dong Zhuo will deploy Lu Bu. Avoid direct confrontation. Lu Bu is overwhelmingly powerful. Instead, focus on eliminating surrounding officers to maintain morale, which Lu Bu significantly depletes. Lu Bu will eventually attack your main base (Yuan Shao). Resist the urge to pursue him; Liu Bei's forces will temporarily hold him off, giving you time to defeat Dong Zhuo. This creates a time constraint; if Liu Bei's forces are routed, and you haven't defeated Dong Zhuo, Lu Bu will defeat Yuan Shao, ending the mission.

Defeating Dong Zhuo:

Once Lu Bu departs, resupply at a conquered base if necessary. Then, capture the northern and western bases. With all three squads poised to 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 enemy lines protecting the catapults. The second Grand Tactic necessitates defeating one of his officers. Consider dueling Diaochan (who has defected to Dong Zhuo) if the opportunity arises; defeating her simplifies the encounter.

Once the Grand Tactics are neutralized, the path to Dong Zhuo is clear. Your forces should easily overwhelm his remaining troops. Dian Wei might even initiate a Grand Tactic, further aiding your assault. While a duel is tempting, a standard defeat of Dong Zhuo is efficient at this stage.

Victory at Hulao Gate is yours! Dynasty Warriors: Origins is available on PS5, PC, and Xbox Series X/S.