A Beginner's Guide to Dynasty Warriors: Origins

Dynasty Warriors: Origins throws you headfirst into the chaotic beauty of ancient China. Whether you're a seasoned warrior or a fresh recruit, these beginner tips will help you navigate the battlefield and carve your legend into the annals of the Three Kingdoms.

1. Weapon Mastery: Variety is the Spice of War

Don't get stuck in a rut. While you start with a trusty sword, Dynasty Warriors: Origins encourages experimentation. Switching between weapon types boosts your overall rank, unlocking new skill trees and juicy stat bonuses. Early on, focus on leveling up less proficient weapons for quick gains. Later, specialize in your weapon of choice to become a true master of destruction.

2. Choose Your Companion Wisely (or Go Solo)

Your companion isn't just a friendly face; they determine your starting position on the battlefield. A bad starting point? Simply restart and select a different companion for a tactical advantage. Feeling bold? Go solo for unique strategic opportunities. Just remember, companions are essential for unleashing devastating True Musou Attacks, so choose wisely depending on the battle's demands.

3. Don't Skip the Small Fries

Those minor battles may seem tedious, but they're crucial for growth. They offer valuable Mastery points for Battle Arts and boost your province's Peace Rating. A high Peace Rating translates to gifts from grateful locals, including faster horses and tomes to unlock new Battle Arts. So, grind those small battles – your future self will thank you.

4. Bravery is a Weapon: Use It!

Bravery regenerates faster than Musou, so unleash your Battle Arts frequently. Playing on Hero difficulty? Remember, blocking drains Bravery while dodging doesn't. Unlock the skill that grants Bravery for well-timed dodges to maintain relentless offensive pressure.

5. Musou: Unleash the Beast Within (Strategically)

Smaller skirmishes? Go wild with your Musou Attacks. But for larger battles and boss encounters, conserve that precious Musou Gauge. When the time is right, unleash Musou Rage (L3+R3) for a trifecta of power: a small heal, infinite Bravery, and a devastating finishing Musou Attack. It's your "get out of jail free" card, turning you into a whirlwind of destruction.

6. Teamwork Makes the Dream Work (and Keeps You Alive)

Stay close to your allies. Your mere presence heals them, even without directly assisting in combat. Prioritize rescuing struggling allies – a fallen officer cripples army morale and effectiveness.

7. Bases: Your All-You-Can-Eat Meat Bun Buffet

Bases aren't just strategic points; they're your lifeline. Smash those jars for precious Meat Buns to replenish your health. Raid enemy bases for their supplies and a morale boost. Pro tip: The Eyes of the Sacred Bird (L2/LT) combined with the Meat Perceiver Skill will help you locate those healing goodies in a flash.

8. Listen to Your Allies (They Know Things)

Your allies aren't just shouting for the sake of it. They offer valuable intel, warning of ambushes and highlighting key objectives. Ignore them at your peril. And trust us, taking on Lu Bu early on is probably not a good idea. Save that for your second (or third) playthrough.

9. Choose Your Challenge

Dynasty Warriors: Origins offers a range of difficulty options, from the brutal Wii version to the more forgiving 3DS mode. Find the sweet spot that suits your skill level and enjoy the carnage.

10. Embrace the Chaos

Dynasty Warriors is about glorious, over-the-top action. Prepare your equipment, hone your skills, and dive headfirst into the fray. Stay mobile, adapt to the ever-changing battlefield, and revel in the thrill of conquering the Three Kingdoms. Now go forth, warrior, and paint the land red!