Dynasty Warriors Origins on PS5 is the latest installment in a long-standing franchise that has been a staple on PlayStation since the days of the PS1, spanning all the way to handheld systems like the PSP and PSVita. The main series last graced us back in 2018 with Dynasty Warriors 9, and fans have been eagerly awaiting its return.
The series dives into the chaotic Three Kingdoms period of Chinese history, a backdrop that Omega Force Studios has expertly navigated across its many releases. This month, I had the opportunity to get a sneak peek at the newest entry, Dynasty Warriors Origins, which is set to launch in January 2025.
One thing that jumps out is the decision to stray from the series’ traditional numbering. At a recent preview event, I spoke with Tomohiko Sho, the game’s producer and head of Omega Force Studio, who shed some light on the name change:
“One of the reasons is to make it easier for newcomers who haven’t experienced the series before. Naming it Origins rather than numbering it helps in not scaring off potential players. Additionally, our aim has always been to craft a tactical action game. Yet, in recent iterations, we’ve veered more towards pure action. Now, we want to highlight the thrilling aspects of tactical gameplay.”
Sho-san’s enthusiasm for Dynasty Warriors Origins is unmistakable, especially when discussing the influence modern titles like Ghost of Tsushima have had on their approach.
“Ghost of Tsushima is a personal favorite,” Sho-san explained. “From the first battle, you are enveloped in a realistic, immersive experience. This is crucial – we’ve depicted vast armies but haven’t truly captured the sensation of being in the thick of battle.”
Jumping into the game, there’s an immediate sense that something’s different. While the core feel of “Dynasty Warriors” remains, there’s a newfound cinematic and emotional depth that aligns perfectly with Sho-san’s vision: battles should resonate beyond mere combat, reflecting the weight of decisions and their repercussions.
The immersive gameplay is supported by a robust system for advancing your hero and customizing gear. You can shape your character and comrades to align with your fighting style, making progression deeply engaging. Thanks to the PS5’s powerful capabilities, battles unfold across multiple areas at once, demanding that you not only master combos and counterattacks but also provide timely support where needed.
The game also offers players more agency by allowing direct command and control of troops on the battlefield. A morale system affects your allies, with your strategic choices playing a vital role in swaying the tide of war in your favor.
Balancing the high-energy combat are calmer, more reflective moments. The world map of the Three Kingdoms period is a departure from the battleground, offering a serene escape with its unique aesthetics and traditional Chinese music. Here, you can explore, embark on side missions, and engage in RPG elements like upgrading your arsenal.
Storytelling is elevated through stunning, artful animations that beautifully capture the rich lore of the Romance of the Three Kingdoms, distinct from in-game cut scenes, offering a treat for both new players and series veterans.
In summary, Dynasty Warriors Origins promises a captivating blend of gameplay and narrative. Even after just a few hours, I found myself entranced, eagerly anticipating more. Although the full release is slated for January 17, 2025, a demo is available now for those eager to dive into this thrilling tale.
Look out for Dynasty Warriors Origins coming to PS5, PC, and Xbox Series X/S on January 17, 2025.
