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THE ENCYCLOPEDIA

Lord of the North

CAMPAIGNS & SCENARIOS · AGE OF EMPIRES II ONLY

CAMPAIGN · THE THREE KINGDOMS

Lord of the North

Cao Cao presses north to secure the region after Yuan Shao’s defeat. Capture Liyang, establish a fortified position in Ye, and overcome the rival brothers who contest control of the northern plains.

Lord of the North scenario map icon
Lord of the North scenario map icon

Overview

Cao Cao presses north to secure the region after Yuan Shao’s defeat. Capture Liyang, establish a fortified position in Ye, and overcome the rival brothers who contest control of the northern plains.

Player approach

Lord of the North opens with the capture of Liyang before the player must fight multiple Yuan brothers and take Ye. Choose a hero that supports the intended army, and lure the garrison into open ground before entering the city.

Step-by-step plan

Select Zhang He for a powerful mounted strike or Guo Jia when the nearby armor aura will strengthen a mixed force. Draw Liyang’s troops out in small groups and focus the Onagers and Pikemen before moving into the city. Once Liyang changes sides, use it as a production and staging base. Build an economy and rally the army toward the three brothers, keeping the final push on Ye for when the surrounding fronts are stable.

Risks and adjustments

The opening has few ranged units, making Onagers and Pikemen dangerous to a direct assault. Do not enter Liyang’s defenses with the entire starting force; preserve Monks and hero abilities to reduce losses.

Focused strategy page

For a dedicated version of this plan, open Lord of the North Liyang capture plan.

Mission overview

Cao Cao presses north to secure the region after Yuan Shao’s defeat. Capture Liyang, establish a fortified position in Ye, and overcome the rival brothers who contest control of the northern plains.

Objectives

  1. Defeat the defenders at Liyang.
  2. Build a Castle at the marked location in Ye.
  3. Defeat the three Yuan brothers.
  4. Optional: win over one brother, resolve the Wuhuan threat, and uncover other opportunities.
Focus
Scenario · Cao Cao
Signature / category
Story & scenarios
Release / context
The Three Kingdoms
Classification
Scenarios
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