For much of its history, the *Dynasty Warriors* series has been a straightforward hack-and-slash experience. However, recent entries like *Dynasty Warriors 9* experimented with an open world, leaving fans wondering about the approach taken in *Dynasty Warriors: Origins*. The answer is simple: no, *Dynasty Warriors: Origins* does not feature an open world.
Does *Dynasty Warriors: Origins* Have an Open World?
The short answer is no. The recent trend in AAA games towards open worlds doesn't always equate to quality. *Dynasty Warriors 9*'s open world serves as a prime example; its vastness offered little content, diluting the impact of its large-scale battles. The expansive design felt hollow and ultimately detracted from the experience, highlighting how forcing a mechanic into a game that doesn't need it can be detrimental.
Thankfully, *Dynasty Warriors: Origins* avoids this pitfall. Instead of an open world, it presents players with a condensed overworld map of ancient China. This map allows navigation between towns to purchase items, rest at inns, and interact with NPCs to initiate side quests, discover items (like Pyroxene and Old Coins), participate in optional battles to improve proficiency and recruit soldiers, and trigger story cutscenes. While functional, this overworld map remains relatively small and straightforward, offering a far more streamlined experience than the sprawling, empty landscapes of *Dynasty Warriors 9*. Even the fast travel option feels largely unnecessary given the map's size.
*Dynasty Warriors: Origins* is available now on PS5, PC, and Xbox Series X/S.