Conquering Lu Bu in Dynasty Warriors: Origins: A Comprehensive Guide
The phrases "Among men, Lu Bu. Among horses, Red Hare" and "Do not pursue Lu Bu," prevalent in Dynasty Warriors: Origins, clearly warn against engaging Lu Bu. However, if you're up for the challenge, here's how to overcome this formidable foe.
Should You Fight Lu Bu?
Battling Lu Bu is no easy feat; it can take over an hour. However, there are compelling reasons to face him:
- Bragging Rights: Defeating Lu Bu is a significant accomplishment.
- Narrative Necessity: Allying with Shu or Wei necessitates fighting Lu Bu in Chapter 4 (Battle of Xiapi).
- Rewards: Victory at Hulao Gate unlocks the "The Strongest" trophy. Post-game victory yields the game's ultimate weapon, the halberd.
Lu Bu's First Phase: Mounted Mayhem
Before the battle, equip yourself strategically. A multi-hit sword to stagger him is crucial, alongside Battle Arts with low Bravery requirements, quick activation, and wide range (e.g., Falcon Flurry, Mad Blade Rush, Absconding Slash, Flying Dragon Slash). Boost your health and defense with accessories like Divine Bird's Wing and Divine Turtle's Shell. A weapon granting Bravery per Perfect Evade is highly beneficial.
Initially, Lu Bu rides Red Hare. He charges rapidly but pauses occasionally. Exploit these pauses with Battle Arts, then retreat. His attacks have limited area-of-effect, except for Red Hare's jump attack, making evasion relatively straightforward. At 80% health, he dismounts, initiating the next phase.
Lu Bu's Second Phase: Unmounted Onslaught
On foot, Lu Bu's attacks are swift and unpredictable. A red aura indicates an uninterruptible combo. Evade his charges (he typically charges in sets of three). A grab attack (without his spear) is easily evaded.
His most dangerous move is a three-arrow volley (orange glow). Use a ranged Battle Art like Absconding Slash to counter; close-range arts are fatal. Keep your Musou gauge full for invincibility in emergencies. This phase allows for juggling, enabling rapid Battle Art charging and Fortitude meter depletion. Maintain close proximity for better reaction time. Remember: evasion is key.
Lu Bu's Final Phase: Musou Rage
Upon reaching a certain health threshold, Lu Bu enters Musou Rage. He becomes unstaggerable and unleashes relentless attacks. The objective is to deplete his Fortitude before his Musou attack. Utilize all available resources – Musou attacks, Battle Arts – to overwhelm him. Failing to break his Fortitude before his Musou attack forces a phase restart. Success brings victory over this formidable opponent.
Dynasty Warriors: Origins is available on PS5, PC, and Xbox Series X/S.
