Dynasty Warriors: Latest Chapter Unofficially Axed

Dynasty Warriors: Origins Rises from the Ashes of a Canceled Predecessor

The upcoming release of Dynasty Warriors: Origins on January 17, 2025, marks a significant moment for the franchise, born from the ashes of its predecessor, the canceled Dynasty Warriors 10. This decision, driven by advancements in gaming technology, ultimately shaped Origins into a more modern and strategically engaging experience.

Initially conceived as the tenth mainline entry, Dynasty Warriors 10 was scrapped to fully leverage the capabilities of next-gen consoles like the PlayStation 5. According to Omega Force producer Tomohiko Sho, witnessing the potential of these systems prompted a strategic shift. While abandoning a nearly completed project was undoubtedly difficult, the team salvaged valuable elements, seamlessly integrating them into Origins.

The canceled title, described as a "phantom number title" by producer Masamichi Oba in an interview with 4Gamer (translated by SiliconEra), was envisioned as a stage-clearing experience akin to Dynasty Warriors 7. However, the technological leap spurred a departure from this formula, resulting in the free-roaming, hack-and-slash gameplay that defines Origins.

Key features of the abandoned project found new life in Origins. The free-roaming map, a long-held ambition of Oba's, became a central element of the new game. Furthermore, the narrative focus on the Three Kingdoms Era, a core aspect of the canceled title, was significantly deepened in Origins.

Despite the bittersweet origins, Dynasty Warriors: Origins promises a thrilling, action-packed journey through the Three Kingdoms, offering players a refined and modernized experience built upon the legacy of the franchise and the lessons learned from its predecessor. Deluxe Edition players have already experienced the fast-paced combat, and the wider release is eagerly anticipated.