Dynasty Warriors Enthusiasts: Mark January 17 on Your Calendars!

For enthusiasts of the legendary Dynasty Warriors hack-and-slash action franchise, January 17, 2025, is a date to remember. That’s when Dynasty Warriors: Origins, the series’ 10th main installment, will be released, allowing players to battle vast armies commanded by powerful officers.

The journey began back in 1997 with the original Dynasty Warriors on the PlayStation, which was a one-on-one fighting game. However, starting with the second installment in 2000, the franchise transitioned to the hack-and-slash format that fans know today. Players choose their hero from one of three major ancient Chinese kingdoms and execute impressive combos while slicing through hordes of enemy soldiers to dominate the battlefield.

In a recent announcement during the PlayStation State of Play, Koei Tecmo unveiled a new trailer for Dynasty Warriors: Origins, confirming its release for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC via Steam. This installment will introduce a nameless protagonist referred to as the “guardian of peace.” The trailer depicts him not only battling foes but also witnessing the struggles of ordinary people, hinting at a deeper narrative than what the series typically offers.

Set as a prequel to the famed Three Kingdoms Era, the game features younger versions of iconic characters like Liu Bei and Cao Cao, the leaders of the Shu and Wei kingdoms, alongside the legendary warrior Lu Bu.

A Fresh Take on a Classic Series

It's been a while since the last mainline entry, Dynasty Warriors 9, which released in 2018. Nevertheless, Koei Tecmo has adapted its successful formula in various titles over the years. The Samurai Warriors series, which debuted in 2004, applies this gameplay style to Japan's Sengoku Period, with its latest installment launching in 2021. Additionally, the Warriors Orochi crossover series pits characters from both Samurai Warriors and Dynasty Warriors against otherworldly demons, while similar gameplay mechanics have been featured in The Legend of Zelda and Fire Emblem: Three Houses.