Conquer the Legendary Battle of Hulao Gate in Dynasty Warriors: Origins
The Battle of Hulao Gate, a pivotal and notoriously challenging stage in Dynasty Warriors: Origins' Chapter 2, requires strategic planning and execution. This guide will help you overcome this iconic battle and defeat Dong Zhuo.
Initial Strategy:
Begin by capturing the four enemy bases in the map's lower right quadrant. After securing two, a cutscene will trigger, introducing mounted cavalry. Continue your base conquest; defeating Zhang Liao, the cavalry commander, rewards you with a twin pike weapon. Once all bases are under your control, assault Hulao Gate.
Facing Dong Zhuo's Forces:
The initial assault on the gate is chaotic. Prioritize protecting Cao Cao until he initiates his Grand Tactic. This significantly weakens the defenses, paving the way for your advance.
Lu Bu's Arrival (and Why You Should Ignore Him):
Dong Zhuo will deploy Lu Bu. Avoid direct confrontation. A one-on-one fight with Lu Bu is suicidal. Instead, eliminate enemy officers on the periphery to maintain morale, which Lu Bu's presence significantly drains. Lu Bu will eventually target your main base and Yuan Shao. Resist the urge to pursue him; Liu Bei's forces will temporarily hold him off, giving you time to defeat Dong Zhuo. This creates a time limit; once Liu Bei's forces retreat, you must be close to defeating Dong Zhuo.
Defeating 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 poised to attack, and your health replenished, charge towards Dong Zhuo.
Dong Zhuo's Grand Tactics:
Dong Zhuo will unleash two Grand Tactics involving fireballs. The first requires destroying two catapults. Use Musou Rage if available, clear the path through enemy soldiers, and eliminate those surrounding the catapults. Your forces will then destroy the catapults.
The second Grand Tactic necessitates defeating an officer. Proceed to the right-side stairs, encountering an officer and Diaochan (who has joined Dong Zhuo). Ideally, duel Diaochan; defeating her simplifies the encounter. Once the Grand Tactic ends, the path to Dong Zhuo is clear. His forces will be significantly weakened, and you should be able to defeat him without much difficulty. Dian Wei might even initiate a Grand Tactic in your favor.
Victory:
With Dong Zhuo defeated, you have successfully conquered the Battle of Hulao Gate. Remember, patience, strategy, and focusing on objectives other than Lu Bu are key to victory.
Dynasty Warriors: Origins is available on PS5, PC, and Xbox Series X/S.