DYNASTY WARRIORS: ORIGINS

Developer: KOEI TECMO GAMES CO., LTD.
Release: Jan 16th 2025
Platforms:
Action
RPG
Strategy
Addictive
Immersive
Strategic
Cringe Dialogue
Technical Issues
DYNASTY WARRIORS: ORIGINS Poster

" Epic action RPG strategy with large-scale battles and deep combat, but awkward dialogue "

DYNASTY WARRIORS: ORIGINS Review

DYNASTY WARRIORS: ORIGINS is widely regarded as a refreshing reinvention of the classic Musou series, delivering an immersive large-scale battle experience with thousands of soldiers on screen and a redefined combat system featuring dodging and parrying mechanics. Players control a single customizable protagonist, a departure from previous entries, which adds depth to character progression and weapon variety. The game’s graphics and soundtrack receive consistent praise, with detailed character models and an epic musical score enhancing the battlefield atmosphere. The narrative focuses on the early Three Kingdoms era and is presented with multiple branching storylines, though it concludes earlier than some fans expected.

Despite its many strengths, the game faces criticism for repetitive side missions, limited weapon and character variety, and uneven voice acting. The protagonist's silent nature and awkward, often flirtatious dialogue with other characters divide players. Technical issues like crashes and control quirks also affect the experience for some. Overall, it is seen as a significant step forward for the franchise, especially compared to recent entries.

Highlights

Gameplay mechanics receive high praise for their depth, variety, and satisfying combat flow, including new parry and dodge features. The large-scale battles with dynamic AI and strategic elements bring a fresh, immersive experience.

Graphics are noted as a major improvement, with detailed character models, realistic armor, and smooth performance even with thousands of units on screen.

Storyline is appreciated for its concise, well-presented approach to the Three Kingdoms era, with branching paths increasing replayability, though some find it less engaging due to the silent protagonist and tonal inconsistencies.

Criticisms

Dialogue and character interactions are often described as awkward or cringe-worthy, with many characters exhibiting overt flirtation towards the protagonist, which some players find off-putting.

Limited character roster and weapon variety reduce replay value for fans accustomed to larger selections in previous games.

Technical issues such as crashes, control problems, and repetitive side missions detract from the overall experience.

Story delivery and voice acting quality are inconsistent, and the protagonist’s silent nature combined with forced dialogue options frustrate some players.

Pros

  • Large scale battles with thousands of soldiers create epic combat scenarios.
  • Deep and satisfying combat mechanics with parry and dodge features.
  • Customizable protagonist allows unique playstyle and weapon switching.
  • High-quality graphics with detailed character models and smooth performance.
  • Dynamic AI commands and morale system add strategic depth.
  • Engaging soundtrack that enhances the battlefield atmosphere.
  • Multiple branching storylines increase replayability.

Cons

  • Dialogue is often awkward, overly flirtatious, and cringe-worthy.
  • Limited weapon and character variety compared to previous entries.
  • Protagonist’s silent nature clashes with forced dialogue choices.
  • Technical issues including crashes and control quirks frustrate players.
  • Repetitive side missions and mini-battles reduce pacing.
  • Voice acting quality is inconsistent and sometimes poor.
  • Story ends earlier than expected, limiting content scope.

Rating Criteria

Story
Difficulty
Graphics
Duration
Stability
Worth the Price
Capsule image

Become immersed in exhilarating battles as a nameless hero in the Three Kingdoms

Release Date Jan 16th 2025
Publisher KOEI TECMO GAMES CO., LTD.
Developer KOEI TECMO GAMES CO., LTD.
Platforms

User Reviews

Very Positive (3,294)
93% Positive 7% Negative

Online Reviews

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Metacritic
84