Strategies to Defeat Lu Bu in Dynasty Warriors: Origins

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Lu Bu is frequently depicted as one of the mightiest warriors in Chinese history, and Dynasty Warriors: Origins is no different. Throughout the main storyline of Dynasty Warriors: Origins, you will come across Lu Bu multiple times, starting in Chapter Two. However, it isn’t until a crucial battle later in the game that you’ll actually get the chance to take him on. Most of the time, his unexpected appearances force you to retreat, similar to the character Mr. X in Resident Evil 2, where you’ll need to abandon strategic positions and escape for survival.

Eventually, during the mission titled "Battle of Xiapi," you’ll find yourself in a one-on-one duel with Lu Bu, where you can defeat him for good—provided you have the right skills and a bit of luck on your side. Be forewarned: Lu Bu is notoriously tough, just like in other Dynasty Warriors titles. He lives up to his fearsome reputation by delivering powerful hits, whether fighting on foot or riding his legendary horse, Red Hare. You’ll need to bring your A-game to bring him down.

Preparing for the Fight Against Lu Bu

Battle Preparation

By the time you face Lu Bu, your build in Dynasty Warriors: Origins is likely well-established. Still, it’s wise to revisit the Battle Preparation menu. Make sure you’re equipped with the strongest weapon available that suits your playstyle. Ideally, pick a weapon effective against single targets and one that doesn’t require precise timing; swords and spears generally work better than gauntlets or wheel-type weapons.

Keep in mind that you may not have to face Lu Bu in every storyline route. His battle involves an alliance between Liu Bei and Cao Cao, so opting to ally with Sun Jian or Sun Ce in Chapter Four could allow you to bypass the encounter altogether.

Additionally, ensure you have an accessory equipped, along with squad tactics and one of the Dynasty Warriors gems that align with how you prefer to play. As for Arts, a diverse set is beneficial: include some for knockbacks, some with high damage, and others with varying Bravery costs. Most importantly, ensure you have at least one Special Art equipped to interrupt some of Lu Bu’s moves, as this will be crucial for your survival.

Approaching Lu Bu

During the War Council, you will receive a briefing on the mission’s objective: Xun You and Jia Xu will unleash the floodgates, causing water to inundate the castle. Meanwhile, Xiahou Dun and other officers will assault Lu Bu’s castle gates in an attempt to lure him out. In the initial moments of the battle, you can choose how to spend your time—helping the engineers, capturing nearby bases, or a mix of both as dialogues unfold. Eventually, you’ll receive a notification indicating that Lu Bu’s forces are attacking the floodgates, which is the right time to jump in and assist.

Contribute to your allies’ efforts across the map until the floodgates are breached and the castle is flooded. Once the gates of Xiapi castle are destroyed, Lu Bu will retreat temporarily. Your next objective will be to defeat two of his officers: Chen Gong and Zhang Liao. Track them down and take them out; Zhang Liao can be quickly defeated in a duel, but you might have to dismantle Chen Gong’s Large Force before facing him. After defeating these officers, you’ll receive a victory screen, and that will lead you into a confrontation with Lu Bu.

Strategies to Defeat Lu Bu

Phase One: On Horseback

Lu Bu begins the duel mounted, which allows him greater mobility and access to unique skills. While you may consider summoning your own horse to match him, it would be more advantageous to remain on foot for most of this encounter. Staying on foot grants you access to a wider range of options, particularly your dodge maneuver.

Your main aim during this phase is to reduce Lu Bu’s health to about 90%. Keep a safe distance—he’s incredibly swift and won’t hesitate to charge if you get too close. Instead, wait for him to use his skills before rushing in to land a few hits while he cools down. Use your Special Arts to interrupt his strong moves when he begins glowing gold.

If Lu Bu starts to glow red, be cautious; he’s about to execute powerful attacks, including trampling or launching massive projectiles. The best way to handle this is to dodge promptly and then re-engage. Mastering the timing of perfect dodges will help, but your priority should be avoiding his attacks.

Once Lu Bu’s health drops to around 90%, he will leap from his horse and slam down hard. You’ll need to dodge this heavy attack. After this point, he’ll continue the fight on foot, and the dynamics will shift.

Phase Two: Ground Combat

Now the fight will operate like a typical officer battle. You should focus on depleting Lu Bu’s defenses using heavy attacks, Musou, Arts, and Rage. Utilize the Assault command to deal burst damage and knock him back. Although Lu Bu has a high defense with several shields, he takes noticeable damage once that defense is breached.

Don’t be misled by the red effects surrounding his attacks; many of them are blockable. Watch for the flash of light signaling an attack and get ready to parry. Take full advantage of counterattacks until the battle progresses to the final phase.

Phase Three: Unleashing Full Power

When Lu Bu’s health drops to about half, he will enter a third phase with a brand-new array of moves. In this phase, he emphasizes unblockable and interruptable attacks. To adapt, you’ll want to stay as close as possible so you can capitalize on opportunities to use your Special Arts. Watch out for his golden glow, as this signals a powerful attack involving projectile arcs or shockwaves.

When Lu Bu takes a moment to gather energy, he may leap high into the air and slam down, sending shockwaves in all directions. Be ready to interrupt him during this time. If he charges up for a strong attack, ensure you dodge accordingly.

As his health dwindles, red rings will emerge above his head. When they are fully charged, expect him to position himself and unleash a series of shockwaves. Dodge or jump over these while gradually moving closer to Lu Bu. Once the ability has cooled down, you will have an opportunity to strike, continuing your assault until his health hits zero. Congratulations, you’ve defeated Lu Bu and can now advance to Chapter Five of Dynasty Warriors: Origins!