The iconic Battle of Hulao Gate in Dynasty Warriors: Origins is a challenging but rewarding experience. This guide will walk you through conquering this notoriously difficult stage, the final chapter of Chapter 2, where your objective is to defeat Dong Zhuo.
Dynasty Warriors: Origins Battle of Hulao Gate Guide
This mission will likely take longer than any you've faced before. Begin by clearing the four enemy bases in the bottom right of the map. Conquering two will trigger a cutscene introducing mounted cavalry. Continue your base-clearing strategy; defeating Zhang Liao, the cavalry commander, rewards you with the powerful twin pike weapon.
Once all bases are secured, assault Hulao Gate. This initiates a major battle against Dong Zhuo's forces. Protect Cao Cao until he launches his Grand Tactic, significantly weakening the defenses and opening a path towards the gate.
Lu Bu Appears
Dong Zhuo will deploy Lu Bu. Crucially, *avoid* engaging Lu Bu directly; he's overwhelmingly powerful at this stage. Instead, focus on eliminating enemy officers around the main battle to maintain morale, which Lu Bu's presence will severely deplete. Lu Bu will eventually attack your main base (where Yuan Shao is). Resist the urge to pursue him; Liu Bei's forces will hold him off, giving you a limited time to defeat Dong Zhuo. If Liu Bei's forces retreat, you must be close to defeating Dong Zhuo to prevent mission failure.
Go After Dong Zhuo
After Lu Bu's departure, resupply at a conquered base if needed. Then, capture the northern and western bases. With all three squads ready, and fully healed, charge towards Dong Zhuo's commander's circle.
Dong Zhuo will unleash a Grand Tactic (fireballs). Destroy the two front catapults to counter it. Use Musou Rage if available, clearing the path through soldiers to the catapults. Eliminate surrounding officers and soldiers to allow your forces to destroy the catapults.
Dong Zhuo will launch another Grand Tactic. This time, defeat one of his officers to end it. Proceed to the right-hand stairs, encountering Diaochan, who has joined Dong Zhuo. If possible, duel her to avoid fighting both her and the officer simultaneously.
After countering the second Grand Tactic, the path to Dong Zhuo is clear. Your forces should overwhelm his remaining troops. Dian Wei might even initiate a Grand Tactic, further assisting you. Defeat Dong Zhuo to complete the mission.
Congratulations! You've conquered the Battle of Hulao Gate in Dynasty Warriors: Origins. Dynasty Warriors: Origins is available on PS5, PC, and Xbox Series X/S.
