The Dynasty Warriors series, traditionally a linear hack-and-slash experience, saw a shift with titles like Dynasty Warriors 9 incorporating an open world. This raises the question: Does Dynasty Warriors: Origins follow suit?
Does Dynasty Warriors: Origins Feature an Open World?
No, Dynasty Warriors: Origins does not offer an open world. The recent trend in AAA games towards open worlds doesn't always equate to quality. Dynasty Warriors 9's poorly-received open world serves as a prime example; its vastness lacked content, diminishing the impact of large-scale battles. This highlights how forcing a mechanic into an unsuitable game can be detrimental.
Concerns arose whether Dynasty Warriors: Origins, with its experimental approach, would repeat this mistake. Fortunately, it avoids the open-world model. Instead, it presents a condensed overworld map of ancient China.
Navigation involves traveling between towns to acquire weapons, items, and rest at inns. These maps are compact, traversable in under a minute. While a fast travel option exists, its necessity is questionable given the map's size. The overworld facilitates interactions with NPCs for side quests, item discovery (Pyroxene and Old Coins), optional battles for proficiency boosts and soldier recruitment, and story progression via cutscenes. This streamlined approach, though perhaps basic, is a significant improvement over a large, empty open world.
Dynasty Warriors: Origins is currently available on PS5, PC, and Xbox Series X/S.
