Dynasty Warriors Origins has been a name synonymous with the PlayStation scene for nearly three decades. From the early days of the PS1 to the handheld wonders of the PSP and PSVita, it has graced every generation of Sony consoles. However, fans haven’t seen a new entry in the main series since Dynasty Warriors 9, which came out in 2018 for the PS4.
Set during the turbulent Three Kingdoms period, one of ancient China’s most violent eras, the main games have been crafted by Omega Force Studios since their very beginning. Recently, I had the chance to dive into Dynasty Warriors Origins, the latest installment, which is set to launch in January 2025.
The first thing that struck me was the shift away from the traditional numbered titles of the series. At a preview event, I sat down with Origins Producer and Omega Force Studio Head Tomohiko Sho, who shared his thoughts on why they departed from the usual naming pattern:
"One reason is to make it less daunting for newcomers. Seeing a number like 10 can be off-putting, so we’ve opted for ‘Origins’ instead,” he explained. “Moreover, we wanted to bring back the series’ tactical action roots—balancing excitement with strategy.”
Listening to Sho-san, his passion for Dynasty Warriors Origins was infectious. When I inquired about the influence of modern games like Ghost of Tsushima, Sho-san enthusiastically responded:
"I personally adore Ghost of Tsushima. The immersive realism in its first battle scene had a significant impact on us. It captured the essence of actually being on the battlefield, something we’ve aimed to replicate.”
From the moment I started playing, I noticed a shift. The essence of Dynasty Warriors is still there in its visuals and sounds, yet this version feels more cinematic and emotionally charged. As Sho-san mentioned, battles aren’t just physical; they’re embedded with choice and emotion. Origins captures this essence beautifully.
The gameplay is tight and deeply integrated into its storytelling. Enhancing your hero’s skills and upgrading weapons feels personalized, allowing you to craft a warrior that matches your style. You’re not just a lone fighter; you’re part of a team, shoulder to shoulder with comrades on the battlefield.
Thanks to the PS5’s powerful tech, battles happen across multiple locations simultaneously, demanding strategic oversight beyond individual skirmishes. Offering support at the right moments can turn the tide of war, and the ability to command or switch characters adds a layer of connection with your allies. A morale system further deepens strategy, making your decisions crucial.
Contrasting the adrenaline-fueled combat, the world map immerses you in the Chinese Three Kingdoms era with serene musical backdrops. This RPG-like element allows exploration for side missions and upgrades at your own pace, offering a break from the intense battles.
The story unfolds through stunning art pieces, giving life to the Romance of the Three Kingdoms lore in a way that surpasses typical game cutscenes. Whether you’re a seasoned fan or a newcomer, you’ll find yourself captivated.
With its engaging gameplay loop and compelling narrative, Dynasty Warriors Origins promises to be a standout in the series. The short time I spent with the game left me eager for more. While it’s set to release on January 17, 2025, a demo available now offers a taste of the action to come.
Mark your calendars for its release on PS5, PC, and Xbox Series X/S.
