Unlike recent entries like Dynasty Warriors 9, Dynasty Warriors: Origins does not feature an open world. The game instead utilizes a condensed overworld map of ancient China.

The persistent misconception that open-world equals high-quality is challenged by Dynasty Warriors 9's poorly received expansive, yet empty, world. This negatively impacted the game's grand battle sequences, highlighting the unnecessary inclusion of the open-world mechanic.

Dynasty Warriors: Origins avoids this pitfall. Its overworld map allows players to navigate between towns to acquire weapons, items, and rest. These maps are compact, easily traversed in under a minute, rendering the fast travel option largely superfluous. Players can engage in side quests, discover items (Pyroxene and Old Coins), participate in optional battles, and progress the storyline through cutscenes. While this system might seem basic, it's a significant improvement over the emptiness of Dynasty Warriors 9's open world.

Dynasty Warriors: Origins is currently available on PS5, PC, and Xbox Series X/S.