Among the games that chose to release in early January 2025 rather than during the end-of-year holidays for a closer connection with players, Dynasty Warriors Origins is one I had the opportunity to test extensively in November of the previous year for a comprehensive preview (a total of four hours of hands-on playtime). The game made a positive impression on me, and I looked forward to receiving the final version. It has now been three weeks since KOEI Tecmo provided me with the game just before Christmas, allowing me ample time to complete it calmly and realize how well Omega Force balanced traditional gameplay elements with newer, modern features, all backed by robust technical execution that makes battles exceptionally thrilling. If you appreciate the experience of total warfare, Dynasty Warriors Origins will exceed your expectations.
BETWEEN TRADITION AND MODERNITY
The first prudent decision made by the studio and its new producer, Mr. Tomohiko Sho, was to refocus on the series’ core principles and abandon the open-world element they found challenging to master. Instead, they provide expansive battlefields where players navigate between enemy bases, maintaining the gameplay mechanics that have defined the franchise’s appeal. The objective remains to defeat as many enemies as possible and target generals to liberate zones; however, with the capabilities of new consoles, the experience of engaging in a large-scale conflict feels fully realized. The exact number of simultaneous enemies is unknown but undeniably impressive. In some battles, the screen is packed so densely with soldiers that players may struggle to discern their own character amidst the crowd eager for combat. While one might expect this to be chaotic, a single powerful attack can send numerous enemies flying, instantly clearing space. Indeed, for the first time in Dynasty Warriors’ history, the “1 VS 1000” slogan is truly fulfilled, and the experience is not only exhilarating but leaves players wanting more due to the game’s robust technical performance.
Whether on PC, PS5, or Xbox Series, the game runs smoothly without any stuttering and maintains a flawless frame rate. As long as you have decent hardware on PC, such as at least an i7 processor and a good graphics card (series 3000 or higher from GeForce), you should be fine. The same applies to consoles; however, native 4K at 60 frames per second on PS5 Pro is particularly impressive, or even more if you have a compatible TV, as it’s possible to achieve up to 120fps. While Dynasty Warriors Origins may not showcase the latest graphics and appears to belong to the previous generation, the sheer number of NPCs on screen during intense action scenes creates an overwhelming visual and auditory experience. Additionally, the numerous cinematics that introduce many side characters reveal commendable character modeling.
BUT ROUGH, YET REFINE
In contrast, where Dynasty Warriors Origins stands out from the crowd and allows the franchise to hold its head high is in its gameplay. More refined, more demanding, and more exhilarating, it draws inspiration from current Souls-like games, offering players the depth and interest that were previously missing from this free-for-all combat scenario. Beyond the ability to vary between simple attacks, heavy strikes, and battle arts for added style and power in combat, the game emphasizes a parrying and dodging system to be used according to situations. Some enemy attacks are unblockable, forcing players to dodge, but whether it’s blocking or dodging, perfect timing allows for effective counterattacks. Successfully countering an attack with a battle art reduces an opponent’s motivation in the game. Each enemy officer has a yellow courage gauge above their head, which depletes when hit; once empty, a Triangle icon appears, allowing for a devastating assault upon pressing Triangle. There are also Musou and Rage Musou attacks, ultimate moves that evolve throughout the adventure. Initially, our hero Ziluan can use Musou attacks, but their power isn’t maxed out at the start; as the game progresses, Musou attack power increases, and combining it with a partner’s from Chapter 2 becomes possible. This allows for warfare alongside other comrades and character switching during battles. However, only nine different characters are playable in this Dynasty Warriors Origins, compared to the usual 90 from previous episodes. While this may seem limited, the game has gained a stronger narrative to compensate, and honestly, does one truly need 90 distinct characters to appreciate the game’s quality?
Less is More
The game offers diverse weapon choices that unlock as you advance through its levels, totaling nine weapons each with unique advantages and specific techniques. These include the sword, lance, gauntlets, twin eagles, Sun Wukong’s staff, solstice, iron fists, croc tearer, among others to cater to various preferences. Personally, I favor Spring, Sun Wukong’s renowned staff, and the croc tearer, but players will eventually find their preferred weapon choice. Dynasty Warriors Origins also incorporates tactical elements, enabling you to give commands to your troops. For example, coordinated attacks can be arranged, defensive formations set up, and squads instructed to fire arrows at opponents. These strategies can significantly influence battles by reducing enemy morale and gaining a strategic advantage.
It is strongly advised to thoroughly prepare your strategies and not rush in blindly, as this is the best way to avoid ending up in a precarious situation. Dynasty Warriors Origins, despite appearing as a massive brawling game on the surface, requires a certain degree of strategic thinking as you progress. The large-scale battles become increasingly intense, with enemies multiplying and officers proving to be more formidable opponents than one might imagine. It’s not uncommon to find yourself overwhelmed, not just by your own health gauge, but also by that of your companions. If they fall, it’s game over for you. You must manage combat zones effectively, keep an eye on your companions’ battles which may require your assistance, and take the time to leave your war zone to aid them, keeping in mind that turning around, even on horseback, can take some time.
Another element that allows Dynasty Warriors Origins to establish itself as a game worthy of serious consideration is its narrative component, which is more developed than in previous games in the franchise. You take on the role of a central protagonist who possesses a dark and introspective demeanor, communicating through actions rather than speech. This character navigates among numerous well-known figures from the era of the Three Kingdoms. They become pivotal to all alliances, assassination plots, initiatives, and plot developments. The player remains immersed in the historical setting of the Three Kingdoms period, shifting between different factions as they strive to save China. Beneath this overarching narrative lies an enigmatic element: why has one suddenly lost their memory yet still fights with unparalleled skill? While focusing the story on a single character might not endear Dynasty Warriors Origins to fans of the series due to the limited number of playable protagonists, it is acknowledged that there is an effort to add depth to the storyline. This is particularly evident in the generous use of cinematics, dialogues, and epic moments throughout the game. However, it is unfortunate that the hero remains mute, standing out as an anomaly during warlord discussions, as their detached gaze might have offered a striking contrast to other officers.
