The Dynasty Warriors series, traditionally a linear hack-and-slash experience, took a detour with Dynasty Warriors 9's open world, a move met with criticism. This raises the question: does Dynasty Warriors: Origins follow suit?
Does Dynasty Warriors: Origins Feature an Open World?
No, Dynasty Warriors: Origins does not have an open world. The recent trend of incorporating open worlds into AAA titles doesn't always enhance gameplay, and Dynasty Warriors 9 serves as a prime example of this. Its vast, empty world detracted from the experience, making even large-scale battles feel sparse and underwhelming.
Fortunately, Dynasty Warriors: Origins avoids this pitfall. Instead of an open world, it offers a condensed overworld map of ancient China. This allows players to navigate between towns to shop for weapons and items, rest at inns, and interact with NPCs to initiate side quests, discover resources (like Pyroxene and Old Coins), engage in optional battles, and trigger story cutscenes. While this overworld is functional, it's intentionally small and straightforward—a welcome alternative to the expansive emptiness of Dynasty Warriors 9. Fast travel is available, though the map's size renders it largely unnecessary.
Dynasty Warriors: Origins is currently available on PS5, PC, and Xbox Series X/S.
