“Among men, Lu Bu. Among horses, Red Hare.” “Do not pursue Lu Bu.” These iconic phrases in Dynasty Warriors: Origins warn players of the formidable challenge that is Lu Bu. But for those brave enough to take him on, here's a detailed guide on how to conquer this legendary warrior.

Table of Contents

• Should You Fight Lu Bu in Dynasty Warriors: Origins?
• Lu Bu’s First Phase
• Lu Bu’s Second Phase
• Lu Bu’s Final Phase

Should You Fight Lu Bu in Dynasty Warriors: Origins?

Facing Lu Bu is a daunting task, as I discovered during my playthrough of Dynasty Warriors: Origins, where it took me over an hour to defeat him. Yet, there are compelling reasons to challenge him. Firstly, the bragging rights that come with defeating Lu Bu are immense, a true badge of honor among players. Secondly, depending on your allegiance to Shu or Wei, you might find yourself with no choice but to confront him during the Battle of Xiapi in Chapter 4. Additionally, defeating Lu Bu at the Battle of Hulao Gate not only earns you the "The Strongest" trophy but also unlocks the game’s ultimate weapon, the halberd, in the post-game, providing a significant incentive to take him on.

Lu Bu’s First Phase

Before engaging Lu Bu, ensure you're equipped to handle his onslaught. A weapon like a sword, capable of multiple hits and staggering him, is essential. Equip Battle Arts such as Falcon Flurry, Mad Blade Rush, Absconding Slash, and Flying Dragon Slash, which are quick to activate 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. Also, choose a weapon with a skill that grants Bravery for each Perfect Evade, as this will be your primary means of gaining Bravery during the fight.

In Dynasty Warriors: Origins, Lu Bu's initial phase typically starts with him mounted on Red Hare. He charges around the battlefield at high speed, 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 attacks are swift, and he moves rapidly across the battlefield, often surrounded by a red aura that makes him immune to staggering. Watch out for his charges, which come in sets of three, and his grab attack, which can severely deplete your health but can be evaded like the other charges.

His most lethal move is signaled by an orange glow, followed by a barrage of three massive arrows fired three times, capable of juggling and devastating your health. Counter this with a long-range Battle Art like Absconding Slash to interrupt him from a distance. Close-range Battle Arts like Palm Strike are too risky here. Keep your Musou gauge ready for emergencies, as it grants temporary invincibility, which can be a lifesaver if you misjudge a dodge or get caught in a combo.

During this phase, Lu Bu is vulnerable to juggling. Continuous attacks can quickly charge your Battle Arts and deplete his Fortitude meter. Stay close to better anticipate his moves and remember to evade frequently.

Lu Bu’s Final Phase

When Lu Bu's health is sufficiently reduced, he enters Musou Rage, marking the final phase. He becomes unstoppable, launching relentless attacks. Your objective is to break his Fortitude before he executes his Musou attack. Use every tool at your disposal—activate your Musou attacks when he's near, deploy Battle Arts, and strike him with all you've got. If he completes his Musou attack, he'll immediately reactivate it, forcing you to restart the phase. Successfully breaking his Fortitude here will allow you to finally defeat Lu Bu.

And that's how to conquer Lu Bu in Dynasty Warriors: Origins! The game is now available for PS5, PC, and Xbox Series X/S.