Preview of Dynasty Warriors Origins: A First Look at Omega Force’s Ambitious Hack-‘N-Slash for PS5

For nearly three decades, the Dynasty Warriors series has been a beloved fixture on PlayStation consoles, making its mark on every Sony system since the PS1, including handhelds like the PSP and PSVita. Yet, fans have awaited a new installment since the 2018 release of Dynasty Warriors 9 on the PS4. Enter Dynasty Warriors Origins, the latest title from Omega Force Studios, slated for release in January 2025.

This storied franchise, rooted firmly in the chaotic Three Kingdoms period of Chinese history, has seen Omega Force at the development helm for every mainline game. Recently, I had the chance to get my hands on the upcoming entry, Dynasty Warriors Origins, and there’s certainly a fresh vibe to this new chapter.

One immediately striking change is the departure from the numbered titles that have been a hallmark of the series. During a chat with Tomohiko Sho, Origins’ Producer and Head of Omega Force Studio, he explained the decision behind dropping the numeric tradition: “We wanted to make it less daunting for newcomers by avoiding the overwhelming number ’10’ and to invite players in with the name ‘Origins.'”

Sho elaborated that the series initially aspired to blend tactical prowess with action, but recent entries skewed more towards sheer action. The team wants to recapture the full ‘tactical action game’ experience, which defines the series.

His passion for the project was tangible as we discussed contemporary influences like Ghost Of Tsushima. “I love Ghost Of Tsushima,” Sho admitted with enthusiasm. “The first battle captivated me. That tangible sense of realism is something Dynasty Warriors lacked. Though we’ve showcased vast armies, we missed that immersive battlefield experience.”

With Origins, there’s a noticeable shift from the start. While it still feels like Dynasty Warriors in aesthetics and audio, there’s a new cinematic and emotional depth. Sho’s desire for players to genuinely feel the battlefield’s intensity resonates from the outset. It’s not just about combat—it’s about the decisions and emotions layered beneath the warfare.

The PS5’s advanced capabilities enhance these dynamics by enabling battles to unfold across multiple fronts. You’ll need to strategically support allies throughout the battlefield, as your success heavily relies on these alliances.

Adding to the complexity, the game allows players to command their forces and take control of characters fighting alongside them. The game’s morale system ties it all together—your tactical choices can significantly sway a battle’s outcome.

Complementing the adrenaline-pumping combat, the game intersperses serene experiences, establishing a unique rhythm. The world map offers a refreshing escape, filled with traditional Chinese melodies and opportunities for exploration, enhancing the RPG-like elements of the game. This is where you engage in side missions, skirmishes, and discover items to upgrade your arsenal.

Origins’ storytelling shines through its artful, partially animated cutscenes, beautifully capturing the Romance of the Three Kingdoms lore. This approach differs from in-game cinematics, promising to captivate both long-time fans and newcomers alike.

Dynasty Warriors Origins promises a gripping gameplay loop intertwined with rich storytelling. The brief hours I spent with the game left me eager for more. While the full release is planned for January 17, 2025, curious players can dive into a demo available now.

Get ready to experience Dynasty Warriors Origins on January 17, 2025, launching for PS5, PC, and Xbox Series X/S.