The Dynasty Warriors franchise is one of those things you either love or find insanely repetitive. I love the warrior-taking-on-waves-of-opponents gameplay, so it has always been a series I give a look when a new version is released.
Dynasty Warriors: Origin is on the way, and here are ten things you should know about it, including the release date.
Release Date: January 17, 2025
As usual, the year is starting off pretty slow with DWO and Donkey Kong Country Returns HD as the biggest releases of January. Gamers who are hungry for some hack-and-slash action might have some interest in DWO.
Platforms: PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC via Steam
The newest version of Dynasty Warriors will be available on all current-gen consoles as well as Steam.
Developer: Developed by Omega Force and published by Koei Tecmo
The original developer and publisher are together for this title, which is the first new entry into the series since Dynasty Warriors 9 in 2018.
Gameplay: More of the same with new layers
DWO maintains the 1 vs. a slew of enemies approach. However, Omega Force’s goal in this version was to have 10,000 characters on the screen at once. The idea was to capitalize on the power of the newest consoles. This approach is specifically designed to shine on the PS5 Pro.
In addition to hack-and-slash elements, DWO incorporates strategic concepts. Users can issue commands to their troops. There’s also expanded customization for weapons and attacks. Here’s a look at gameplay courtesy of a video posted by IGN.
Story: The story still focuses on the origins of the Three Kingdoms, but there’s a new good guy
DWO introduces a new protagonist. The user’s journey is spiced up by the fact that you have amnesia and interact with historical figures. I’m excited to see how that plays out in the game experience.
New Features: Bigger armies and better graphics
The series has run into problems in the past when it’s tried to reinvent the wheel. DW9 incorporated open-world concepts, and the fanbase didn’t seem pleased with that approach.
In DWO, you’ll see a new storyline, characters, the biggest armies in the series’ history, and improved visuals.
Pre-Order Bonuses: Early works soundtrack and a new costume for the protagonist
If you pre-order DWO, you’ll receive a costume for Wo Long: Fallen Dynasty and an early works soundtrack that includes 191 original tracks from Dynasty Warriors 2 through Dynasty Warriors 9.
Early Access: Yes, for the digital deluxe version
Customers who purchase the Digital Deluxe version of DWO will get 72 hours early access in addition to the pre-order bonuses plus more content. Here’s a look at all of the content:
- Official Book (Digital, Japanese): The digital edition of the official book accessible in-game
- Original Soundtrack (Digital Edition): Accessible in-game
- Gold (10,000): Necessary for buying weapons and portable items in the game
- Pyroxene (30): Necessary for creating gems in the game
Character Skill Tree: New techniques
We’re not just talking about wardrobe changes. The new protagonist can add new moves, and there is a built-in skill tree for advancement.
Reception: It’s been good so far
Fans seem to be pleased with what they’ve seen so far. Many are happy that Tecmo and Omega Force are taking things back to the series’ original approach while attempting to innovate with the story without changing the gameplay altogether.
I’m looking forward to giving this one a spin toward the middle of the month.
