Dynasty Warriors: Origins Revolutionizes a Longstanding Series

Dynasty Warriors has always been a bit like comfort food for me. Omega Force’s long-running saga consistently revisits the epic story of warring kingdoms, sticking to its “1 versus 1000” combat promise each time a new game drops. I first encountered this series with Dynasty Warriors 2, and for the past 25 years, I’ve been drawn back repeatedly to see this massive cast of characters replay their roles in the grand narrative. Over time, some favorites have emerged for me, like the impressive Guan Yu, just because of the hours we’ve spent together.

Naturally, my interest was piqued when I dove into the tenth mainline game. With a title like Dynasty Warriors: Origins, it promises a return to basics—a fresh take that goes beyond the gradual tweaks fans have come to expect with new releases.

Origins kicks off with a more intimate, detailed story, covering just the initial half of the saga we’re used to, but with greater depth. Traditionally, Dynasty Warriors starts players off with the task of squashing the Yellow Turban Rebellion, which is key in launching into the Romance of the Three Kingdoms—an embellished telling of historical events in ancient China that these games are based upon. However, Origins changes things up by narrating how the Yellow Turbans came to be, their descent into corruption, and their eventual downfall. It’s like we’re getting the origin story of the series’ classic beginning.

Adding to this new layer is the introduction of a fresh protagonist—one you get to name—a wanderer with amnesia whose mysterious past unfolds as you progress. This character will be your main focus for most of Dynasty Warriors: Origins, marking a notable shift. In previous games, you’d choose from a vast array of officers from numerous factions in this tale. Now, you’ll journey as this lone figure, intersecting with well-known characters, a few of whom will be playable at certain points.

This significant move breathes a different life into the game. While it steps away from the open world seen in the 2018 installment, Dynasty Warriors 9, this singular focus lets the developers shape a more flexible Story Mode. Instead of simply hopping from one battle to the next with cutscenes in between, you’re given an overworld to explore. Here, you can uncover secrets, customize your gear, meet and ally with officers, and engage in skirmishes to level up.

Combat takes center stage in this renewed focus. Fans will be glad to see that the core hack ‘n’ slash mechanics remain, but there’s added depth. Now, strategic blocking, parrying, and dodging become essential when facing bosses. There are even mini-puzzles in some battles and customizable Battle Art abilities, allowing you to tweak your weapon strategy.

This doesn’t feel like experimentation for its own sake but rather a confident leap forward. It’s still reminiscent of being a superhero from the 2nd century, but now with an enhanced challenge in the one-on-one fights.

Striking a balance between the familiar and the novel encapsulates Origins’ direction. It’s unmistakably Dynasty Warriors, yet with smart upgrades woven into its traditional structure. In simple terms, it remains my go-to comfort food, but now with an intriguing twist of fresh flavors.

As for what’s on offer alongside the game, there are some intriguing pre-order and early purchase bonuses for eager fans. The pre-order package includes the “Nameless Warrior Garb,” a costume collaboration with Wo Long: Fallen Dynasty, adding a unique flair for players. Early buyers can snag the Early Works Soundtrack Collection, a comprehensive digital edition featuring 191 original tracks from across the series. These additional goodies offer a nice incentive to hop on board early. For anyone looking to dive back or experience it anew, Dynasty Warriors: Origins is shaping up to be an exciting addition to the legendary series.