Can You Rescue Dian Wei in Dynasty Warriors Origins?

Cao Cao’s bodyguard Dian Wei historically sacrificed himself to give enough time for his liege to escape from Wan Castle when Zhang Xiu plotted to assassinate Cao Cao right there in 197 AD. However, some of the prior Dynasty Warriors entries like Dynasty Warriors 8 allowed players to rescue Dian Wei and retain his appearance in subsequent stages. Those who are playing Dynasty Warriors Origins will thus wonder whether they can also save Dian Wei from his historical death in the game.

The short answer here is: Yes, you can rescue Dian Wei in Dynasty Warriors Origins. However, be advised that the below guide will contain major spoilers for the stage’s details.

In the early phases of the stage, you simply need to follow the general strategy by starting to clear enemies from the eastern base and move in a clockwise direction while beating any approaching enemies, including reinforcements from the seemingly empty entry points. Once you have reached the castle’s western walls, though, you must pay close attention to what you will do next.

You will of course need to beat Zhang Xiu and Jia Xu for Cao Cao to be able to escape Wan Castle. But instead of escorting the leader to the escape point, you need to stay inside the castle complex if you want to rescue Dian Wei. However, the area where Dian Wei stays will be perpetually locked, and there is absolutely no way to open the gate.

You are instead tasked to quickly defeat any enemy officers still remaining in the explorable areas of Wan Castle. The two remaining officers are Huche’er and Zhang Quan, whom I have marked in the above image. They will take even more time to beat due to their high courage levels, but defeating them will be essential to rescuing Dian Wei in Dynasty Warriors Origins.

If you are not quick enough, Dian Wei’s combat area will turn red, and that would mean you have failed the secret challenge and thus must restart all over again. You will know you have successfully secured Dian Wei from his historical death when you see a “Fate Altered” sign. You can afterward focus on helping Cao Cao reach the escape point to clear the whole stage.

Dynasty Warriors Origins is available worldwide on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X, and PC.