The Battle of Hulao Gate is a pivotal and iconic moment in *Dynasty Warriors: Origins*, serving as the climactic finale of Chapter 2. This mission challenges players to defeat the notorious Dong Zhuo, requiring strategic planning and multiple attempts to master.
Dynasty Warriors: Origins Battle of Hulao Gate Guide
As you embark on the Battle of Hulao Gate, your primary objective is to take down Dong Zhuo. This mission demands considerable effort and is likely to be the longest and most intense you've encountered so far.
Start by navigating to the four enemy bases located at the bottom right of the map. After securing two of these, a cutscene will trigger, introducing a cavalry unit led by Zhang Liao charging towards your position. Stay focused on your initial plan of conquering bases; you'll naturally encounter and defeat the cavalry, including Zhang Liao, which will reward you with the twin pike weapon.
Once all bases are under your control, you can launch an assault on the gate, initiating your first major confrontation with Dong Zhuo's forces. This battle is chaotic, but your priority is to protect Cao Cao until he executes his Grand Tactic. This will weaken the defenses, allowing you to advance further towards Hulao Gate.
Lu Bu Appears
Dong Zhuo will then deploy the fearsome Lu Bu to the frontline. It's crucial not to engage him directly; a one-on-one fight with Lu Bu is a sure path to defeat. Instead, focus on eliminating enemy officers on the outskirts to maintain your morale, as Lu Bu's presence severely impacts it.
Lu Bu will eventually move to attack your main base and confront Yuan Shao. Resist the urge to chase him; a fundamental rule in *Dynasty Warriors* is to never pursue Lu Bu. Liu Bei and his forces will engage Lu Bu, buying you time to focus on defeating Dong Zhuo. This sets a critical timer for the mission, as Liu Bei's resistance won't last indefinitely. Ensure you're close to defeating Dong Zhuo before Liu Bei's retreat is announced, or Lu Bu will end the mission by defeating Yuan Shao.
Go After Dong Zhuo
Once Lu Bu departs, quickly resupply at any conquered base if needed, then return to the gate. While Cao Cao prepares his charge, secure the northern and western bases. With all three squads ready and your health replenished, join the closest commander's circle and launch your attack.
You'll face a massive army, and Dong Zhuo will deploy his first Grand Tactic, launching fireballs. Your immediate goal is to destroy the front two catapults. Use Musou Rage if available to break through the wall of soldiers guarding the catapults. Clear the surrounding soldiers and officers to allow your forces to demolish the catapults, ending Dong Zhuo's tactic.
As you advance, Dong Zhuo will initiate another fireball-throwing Grand Tactic, which you must stop by defeating one of his officers. Ascend the right-hand stairs to confront the officer, but be prepared for an ambush by Diaochan, who has sided with Dong Zhuo. If possible, duel Diaochan to avoid being overwhelmed by fighting both her and the officer simultaneously.
With the second Grand Tactic neutralized, the path to Dong Zhuo should be clear. Your forces, bolstered by high morale and possibly Dian Wei's Grand Tactic, should be able to overwhelm Dong Zhuo's remaining troops. While a duel with Dong Zhuo might be tempting, a straightforward attack will suffice, as his forces will be significantly weakened by this point.
And that's how you successfully complete the Battle of Hulao Gate in *Dynasty Warriors: Origins*! The game is now available on PS5, PC, and Xbox Series X/S.