One of the most defining and unforgettable moments in any *Dynasty Warriors* title is the legendary Battle of Hulao Gate—and *Dynasty Warriors: Origins* delivers this epic clash with full intensity. This mission isn't just a showcase of action; it's a pivotal challenge that may require multiple attempts to master. Here’s your complete guide to conquering this iconic battle.
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Dynasty Warriors: Origins – Battle of Hulao Gate Guide
The Battle of Hulao Gate marks the final stage of Chapter 2 in *Dynasty Warriors: Origins*, with your ultimate objective being the defeat of Dong Zhuo. However, reaching him is no small feat—it’s the longest and most demanding mission you’ll have faced up to this point.
At the start of the mission, focus on clearing out the four enemy bases located in the bottom-right corner of the map. As you take down two of them, a cinematic will play showing a mounted cavalry unit charging down from a hill toward the battlefield. Don’t be distracted—these enemies will fall naturally as you progress between bases. If you eliminate Zhang Liao, the commander of this cavalry force, you’ll earn the twin pike weapon as a new addition to your arsenal.
Once all four bases are under your control, you can initiate an assault on the main gate. This will lead into a large-scale confrontation with Dong Zhuo’s forces. Your priority during this phase should be protecting Cao Cao until he activates his Grand Tactic. Once he does, many of the enemy defenses will collapse, allowing you to advance further toward Hulao Gate.
Lu Bu Appears
As the battle intensifies, Dong Zhuo deploys Lu Bu to the frontline—an expected but dangerous development. It’s crucial to avoid direct engagement with Lu Bu at all costs. A one-on-one duel will result in swift defeat, as he overwhelms nearly any opponent early in the game.
Instead of confronting him head-on, focus on eliminating enemy officers scattered along the battlefield’s edges. Doing so will help maintain your morale, which drops significantly in Lu Bu’s presence. Eventually, Lu Bu will shift his attention toward your main base with the intent to eliminate Yuan Shao. Resist the urge to chase him—this is a key lesson in any *Dynasty Warriors* experience.
Liu Bei and his forces will attempt to intercept Lu Bu, giving you a limited window to continue your push against Dong Zhuo. Keep in mind that Liu Bei’s forces cannot hold Lu Bu indefinitely. When the game notifies you of their retreat, make sure you're close to defeating Dong Zhuo. Otherwise, Lu Bu will reach Yuan Shao and end the mission prematurely.
Go After Dong Zhuo
With Lu Bu temporarily out of the picture, use this opportunity wisely. If you need to replenish your meat buns or heal, return to any of your previously captured bases for supplies before heading back to the front lines.
While Cao Cao prepares for a charge, it’s better to instead target the northern and western bases. Take control of these positions and ensure all three squads are ready for the final assault. Once fully healed and prepared, enter the nearest commander’s zone and begin your push toward Dong Zhuo.
You’ll face overwhelming numbers as Dong Zhuo initiates his Grand Tactic—launching fireballs across the battlefield. To counter this, destroy the first two catapults positioned ahead. If you have Musou Rage available, activate it and rush through the wall of soldiers blocking access to the catapults. Eliminate surrounding enemies and officers to allow your forces to destroy the siege weapons and halt Dong Zhuo’s attack.
Shortly after, Dong Zhuo will unleash another wave of fireball attacks. This time, you must defeat one of his officers to stop the assault. Head up the right staircase to engage him, but beware—a surprise awaits in the form of Diaochan, who has now defected to Dong Zhuo’s side. If possible, isolate her in a duel. Though fast and aggressive, defeating her prevents you from being overwhelmed by both her and the officer.
Once the second Grand Tactic is neutralized, the path to Dong Zhuo becomes clear. At this point, your allies should be strong enough to handle the remaining forces without your constant support, and Lu Bu will still be occupied with Liu Bei’s troops. Additionally, Dian Wei may activate a Grand Tactic, further easing your final push.
Though it may be tempting to engage Dong Zhuo in a dramatic duel, it’s best to simply strike him down normally. By now, he and his remaining forces will offer minimal resistance.
And there you have it—you’ve successfully completed the Battle of Hulao Gate in *Dynasty Warriors: Origins*. The game is now available on PlayStation 5, PC, and Xbox Series X/S. Prepare for more legendary battles and historical chaos as you carve your path through the Three Kingdoms era!
