The legendary Battle of Hulao Gate in *Dynasty Warriors: Origins* is a challenging but iconic encounter. This guide will help you conquer this crucial stage in Chapter 2, where your objective is to defeat Dong Zhuo.
The battle begins with four enemy bases in the map's bottom right. Conquering two triggers a cutscene introducing mounted cavalry. Systematically take out these bases; defeating Zhang Liao, the cavalry commander, rewards you with the twin pike weapon. Once all bases are secured, assault Hulao Gate.
The initial assault on the gate is chaotic. Prioritize protecting Cao Cao until he initiates his Grand Tactic, weakening the defenses and paving your way towards Hulao Gate.
Lu Bu's Appearance
Dong Zhuo deploys Lu Bu. **Avoid direct confrontation.** Lu Bu is overwhelmingly powerful at this stage. Instead, focus on eliminating enemy officers around the main battle to maintain morale, which Lu Bu significantly drains. Lu Bu will eventually attack your main base (Yuan Shao). Resist the urge to pursue him; Liu Bei's forces will defend, giving you time to defeat Dong Zhuo. This creates a time limit; if Liu Bei's forces retreat, you must be close to defeating Dong Zhuo, or Lu Bu will defeat Yuan Shao and end the mission.
Defeating Dong Zhuo
After Lu Bu leaves, resupply at a conquered base if needed. Then, capture the northern and western bases. With all three squads ready and your health restored, charge towards Dong Zhuo's commander's circle.
Dong Zhuo initiates a Grand Tactic (fireballs). Destroy the two front catapults. Use Musou Rage if available to clear a path through soldiers guarding the catapults. Eliminate surrounding soldiers and officers to allow your forces to destroy the catapults, ending the Grand Tactic.
Dong Zhuo launches another Grand Tactic. This time, defeat an officer to stop it. Take the right-hand stairs, but be prepared for an ambush by Diaochan (now fighting for Dong Zhuo). If possible, duel her; defeating her before facing the officer simplifies the encounter.
Once the second Grand Tactic is thwarted, the path to Dong Zhuo is clear. Your forces should overwhelm his remaining troops, especially with the potential for Dian Wei's Grand Tactic. Focus on defeating Dong Zhuo; a direct duel isn't necessary at this point.
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.
