In *Dynasty Warriors: Origins*, unlocking the true ending for Liu Bei's Shu faction involves a thrilling challenge that adds depth to your gaming experience. Each of the three campaigns in the game has its own true ending, and for Shu, you'll need to dive back into one of the most iconic moments of the franchise.
To embark on the journey to unlock Shu's true ending, you first need to complete the Shu campaign. Upon completion, the game grants you the opportunity to replay previously completed stages. Keep an eye out for a gold banner next to The Battle of Changban, signaling an alternative ending waiting to be discovered. In the standard playthrough, your mission is to assist Liu Bei in his escape with the peasants while Zhang Fei heroically holds off Cao Cao's army at Changban Bridge. This scene encapsulates one of the most dramatic and memorable moments in the series.
However, to unlock the true ending, you must deviate from the original objective. Instead of ensuring Liu Bei's escape, your goal shifts to defeating Cao Cao himself. This task embodies the "1 vs. 1000" spirit that *Dynasty Warriors* is renowned for. It's a formidable challenge, as you'll be mostly alone against Cao Cao's forces, and if Liu Bei falls before you can defeat Cao Cao, you'll need to restart the mission.
Screenshot captured by The Escapist
To increase your chances of success, consider adjusting the game's difficulty to Historian mode. This setting can make the overwhelming number of enemies more manageable, especially if you're not at a very high level. Choosing Zhang Fei as your partner positions you closer to Cao Cao's army, saving you the hassle of traversing the entire map.
When confronting Cao Cao's forces, ensure your Musou Rage meter is fully charged. You'll need to counter two Grand Tactics: one requires you to eliminate two enemy officers, and the other demands you take down 250 soldiers. Equipping a weapon like the twin pikes can significantly aid in tackling the soldier count. Once you've dismantled Cao Cao's army, defeating Cao Cao himself should be within reach. After this victory, only a few new missions stand between you and the true ending for Shu.
And that's how you unlock the true ending for Shu in *Dynasty Warriors: Origins*! The game is now available on PS5, PC, and Xbox Series X/S, ready for you to explore its rich narratives and epic battles.