Mark your calendars for January 17! That’s when Dynasty Warriors: Origins is set to launch on the PlayStation 5, adding a fresh chapter to the beloved Dynasty Warriors saga. Recently, I had the exciting chance to dive into this new tactical hack-and-slash adventure before its official release.
In Dynasty Warriors: Origins, you’ll journey through the legendary Three Kingdoms period in China. Starting with the Yellow Turban Rebellion and taking you all the way to the iconic Battle of Red Cliffs, the game kicks off with a thrilling encounter alongside Guan Yu against corrupt official troops. Unlike its predecessors, this installment provides a deep dive into the background of the Yellow Turbans, offering unique insights into their trials and the views of the generals on the losing side.
The game introduces you to a nameless hero, a martial artist with no memory of his past. Despite this, his combat skills remain intact, helping him navigate through battles with finesse. As he doesn’t pledge loyalty to any specific kingdom, players can forge connections with various factions. A crucial decision awaits, though, where you’ll need to pick between backing Cao Cao, Suan Jin, or Liu Bei—each a remarkable warrior in his own right. For me, the choice to support Liu Bei was tough, as it meant clashing against former allies.
The game excels with its signature ‘1 vs 1,000’ mechanics, allowing for welcoming controls, massive tactical encounters, and an adrenaline-pumping combat experience. Battle against hordes using swift combos, while formidable generals challenge you with their Fortitude aura, demanding strategic moves like Battle Arts or Parrying to break through.
Harness the power of Musou Attacks, smashing foes when your Musou Gauge fills up, and escalate the mayhem with War God Rage or True Musou attacks. Team up with a Companion to unleash devastating Extreme Musou Attacks through seamless character swaps and synchronized assaults.
With the PS5’s capabilities, players witness immense clashes, where thousands of soldiers fill the battleground. Each unit acts with purpose, driven by leadership or their initiative, shifting battlefield dynamics dramatically.
Morale plays a pivotal role. High morale boosts your forces, achieved by defeating enemy generals or capturing strongholds, while it’s crucial to manage morale drops from lost leaders or territories. Attending to simultaneous threats might be taxing, but overcoming them is immensely gratifying.
Reviving the Bodyguard system, Dynasty Warriors: Origins lets you direct bodyguards through tactical maneuvers, such as spear charges or arrow barrages. Large Forces pose a significant threat, mobilizing Grand Tactics that demand swift counteractions to protect your allies.
This latest entry in the series captures the essence of its epic historical drama through the eyes of an enigmatic hero. Its expansive battlefields and intense narrative immerse you completely. Whether you’re a veteran fan or new to the franchise, Dynasty Warriors: Origins offers a thrilling journey through the iconic Three Kingdoms saga. Get ready to experience the grandeur on January 17 on the PS5.
