The Battle of Hulao Gate in *Dynasty Warriors: Origins* is not just a pivotal moment in the game but also an iconic chapter in the series' history. This epic showdown is the final stage of Chapter 2, where your primary objective is to take down Dong Zhuo. Here's a comprehensive guide to help you conquer this challenging mission.

Dynasty Warriors: Origins Battle of Hulao Gate Guide

As you start the mission, focus on capturing the four enemy bases located in the bottom right of the map. Securing two of these bases will trigger a cutscene showing a mounted cavalry led by Zhang Liao charging towards your position. Stay on course with your strategy; you'll encounter and naturally defeat this cavalry as you progress. Defeating Zhang Liao will reward you with the twin pike weapon, a valuable addition to your arsenal.

With all bases under your control, you're ready to assault the gate, marking the beginning of a fierce confrontation with Dong Zhuo's forces. This battle is chaotic, but your priority is to protect Cao Cao until he can execute his Grand Tactic. Once activated, Cao Cao's strategy will weaken the enemy's defenses, paving the way for you to advance towards Hulao Gate.

Lu Bu Appears

At this critical juncture, Dong Zhuo will deploy Lu Bu to the frontline. It's crucial not to engage Lu Bu in combat; a one-on-one fight with him is almost certainly fatal. Instead, focus on eliminating enemy officers around the edges to maintain your morale, as Lu Bu's presence significantly depletes it.

Lu Bu will eventually move towards your main base to attack Yuan Shao. Resist the urge to chase after him. In *Dynasty Warriors* games, a key strategy is to avoid pursuing Lu Bu. Liu Bei and his forces will try to delay Lu Bu, giving you the time needed to defeat Dong Zhuo. This creates a time-sensitive scenario; Liu Bei's forces can't hold Lu Bu indefinitely. When the game indicates that they've retreated, ensure you're close to defeating Dong Zhuo, or Lu Bu will end the mission by defeating Yuan Shao.

Go After Dong Zhuo

After Lu Bu departs, quickly resupply with meat buns at your conquered bases to heal, then return to the gate. While Cao Cao prepares for a charge, divert your attention to capturing the bases to the north and west. Once you have three squads ready to attack Dong Zhuo and are fully healed, enter the closest commander's circle and charge into battle.

You'll face a massive army, with Dong Zhuo launching his Grand Tactic of fireball attacks. Your immediate goal is to destroy the front two catapults. If you have Musou Rage, use it to break through the wall of soldiers guarding the catapults. After clearing the path, focus on eliminating the soldiers and officers around the catapults and those forming the barricade. This will allow your forces to destroy the catapults and end Dong Zhuo's Grand Tactic.

Dong Zhuo will initiate another fireball attack shortly after, which you can stop by defeating one of his officers. Head up the right stairs to confront the officer, but be prepared for an ambush by Diaochan, who has joined Dong Zhuo's side. If possible, duel Diaochan; defeating her will prevent you from being overwhelmed by fighting both her and the officer simultaneously.

With the second Grand Tactic thwarted, a direct path to Dong Zhuo opens up. Your forces should now have enough morale to overpower Dong Zhuo's army, especially with Lu Bu still engaged with Liu Bei. If Dian Wei initiates a Grand Tactic, it will further facilitate your victory. While it might be tempting to duel Dong Zhuo, it's more efficient to defeat him conventionally, as his forces will be significantly weakened by this point.

And that's how you successfully navigate the Battle of Hulao Gate in *Dynasty Warriors: Origins*! The game is available on PS5, PC, and Xbox Series X/S, offering players a thrilling journey through ancient China's legendary battles.