Dynasty Warriors: Origins ups the ante with significantly more challenging enemies. Producer Tomohiko Sho's directive to the development team? A simple, yet impactful, "Go and kill the player." This article delves into the design choices behind this increased difficulty.
A Deadlier Battlefield: "Go and Kill the Player"
In an interview with PlayStation.Blog, Sho revealed the reasoning behind the tougher opponents. The goal was to inject a heightened sense of realism, emphasizing that the struggle for survival isn't limited to the player character; enemy soldiers and generals are equally desperate.
While increasing the difficulty, Sho ensured the game remained approachable. The challenge is designed to be rewarding, fostering a sense of accomplishment even for less experienced action game players. He acknowledges the difficulty in balancing the traditional "musou" exhilaration of overwhelming enemies with the realistic brutality of a warzone.
A Return to Roots: "Origins"
A significant departure from previous entries is the absence of a numerical title. This marks the first non-numbered installment in the Dynasty Warriors series. The "Origins" subtitle highlights the game's focus on the first half of Romance of the Three Kingdoms, unlike previous titles which covered the entire narrative. In a Tokyo Game Show 2024 interview with TheGamer, Sho confirmed the story concludes with the Battle of Chibi (Red Cliffs). This focused approach allows for a more thorough and intense depiction of this pivotal period.
Arriving seven years after the last main installment, Dynasty Warriors: Origins introduces an original protagonist, the Nameless Hero, navigating the power struggles of Han Dynasty China. Based on Romance of the Three Kingdoms, the game blends historical and fictional elements.
Released January 17th, Dynasty Warriors: Origins is available on PC (Steam), PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X|S. Read Game8's review for a more in-depth analysis!
