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Dynasty Warriors 9

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Dynasty Warriors 9
Item: Dynasty Warriors 9
Author: Critik Editorial Team

2018

GenresAdventure, Action, Third Person Perspective, Open World, RPG, Fighting, Single Player, Multiplayer

AvailableFeb 13, 2018

PlatformXbox One, PC, PlayStation 4

DeveloperOmega Force, Koei Tecmo Games

Overview

The game will use an open world and have a reworked combat system. It will have all 83 characters from Dynasty Warriors 8: Empires and some new characters including Zhou Cang playable in Musou Stars. The original Japanese numbered titles in the series are behind the numbered series in the west.

Elsewhere

5.9

Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

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Story and Narrative

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive (80-100)

26%

Mixed (50-79)

68%

Negative (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the story and narrative.

In analyzing the opinions of the critics regarding the story of Dynasty Warriors 9, it is evident that there are both positive and negative aspects highlighted by the reviewers. Several critics, such as GameCritics and GameStar, appreciate the game's adherence to historical events and incorporation of Chinese history. They find the storyline engaging, with GameStar specifically mentioning the fast-paced interpretation and seamless transitions between battles. PlayStation Universe also praises the epic tale of The Romance of the Three Kingdoms, which serves as the franchise's inspiration. These positive comments indicate that the game successfully captures the essence of the historical events and provides an interesting narrative for players to experience. On the other hand, there are critics who express negative sentiments towards certain aspects of the story in Dynasty Warriors 9. Cheat Code Central criticizes the script and voice acting, stating that they ruin the gravitas and drama of the series. Metro GameCentral finds the story at odds with the camp presentation and magical lightning powers, suggesting a lack of coherence. These criticisms highlight potential shortcomings in the execution of the story, particularly in terms of dialogue delivery and tonal consistency. Overall, the consensus among the critics is that the story in Dynasty Warriors 9 has its strengths and weaknesses. While some critics appreciate the game's adherence to historical events and engaging narrative, others find issues with aspects like voice acting and tonal consistency. However, the positive comments from multiple critics, such as GameSpot and PlayStation LifeStyle, indicate that the story is generally well-received and adds value to the overall experience of the game. It is worth noting that the game's unique progression in the story mode, as mentioned by Twinfinite, contributes to its replayability and further enhances the positive reception of the story.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Critics have mixed feelings about Dynasty Warriors 9's story: some praise its historical accuracy and engaging narrative, while others criticize aspects like voice acting and tonal inconsistencies. Despite the flaws, many reviewers appreciate the game's storytelling and unique progression, adding value to the overall experience.

Gameplay Mechanics

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive (80-100)

39%

Mixed (50-79)

50%

Negative (0-49)

11%

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the gameplay mechanics.

In analyzing the opinions of multiple reviewers regarding the gameplay of Dynasty Warriors 9, it is clear that there are both positive and negative aspects to consider. Starting with the positives, many critics praised the combat system of the game. GameSpew, Cubed3, DarkStation, GameStar, Twinfinite, COGconnected, Cheat Code Central, Destructoid, Digital Chumps, GameSpot, Gamers' Temple, Gaming Age, GamingTrend, IGN, IGN Italia, Metro GameCentral, PSX Extreme, PlayStation LifeStyle, PlayStation Universe, Press Start Australia, Shacknews, TheSixthAxis, and VideoGamer all highlighted the satisfying and fluid combat mechanics. They mentioned the ability to perform flashy moves, chain combos, and experience the joy of mowing down hundreds of enemies. The introduction of new attack systems, such as Trigger Attacks and reactive attacks, were also appreciated for adding variety and strategy to the gameplay. However, there were also several criticisms raised by the reviewers. GameCritics, ZTGD, App Trigger, CGMagazine, Digital Chumps, GameSpot, PlayStation LifeStyle, and TheSixthAxis expressed disappointment with certain aspects of the gameplay. They found the battles to be repetitive and lacking the joy of huge-scale conflicts found in other Musou games. The open-world mechanics, such as crafting and hunting, were considered time-consuming and not worth the effort. Some critics also mentioned overwhelming and confusing progression and crafting systems, as well as a lack of diversity when playing different characters. Overall, the consensus among the critics is that the combat in Dynasty Warriors 9 is a strong aspect of the gameplay. The fluid and satisfying hack-and-slash mechanics, along with the introduction of new attack systems, were widely praised. However, there were concerns about the repetitive nature of the battles and the lackluster implementation of open-world mechanics. The overwhelming progression and crafting systems, as well as the lack of character diversity, were also mentioned as drawbacks. It is worth noting that while some critics were more positive about the gameplay changes introduced in Dynasty Warriors 9, others felt that the game strayed too far from its core and had ups and downs in terms of overall experience.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Critics praise Dynasty Warriors 9 for its fluid combat mechanics and flashy moves, but express disappointment in repetitive battles and lackluster open-world features. The game's new attack systems add variety and strategy, but overwhelming progression systems and lack of character diversity are drawbacks. Overall, opinions vary on whether the changes enhance or detract from the core experience of the game.

Graphics and Visual Design

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive (80-100)

Mixed (50-79)

59%

Negative (0-49)

37%

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the graphics and visual design.

The opinions of the critics regarding the Graphics and Visual Design of Dynasty Warriors 9 are varied. Some critics, such as App Trigger and GameStar, appreciate the open world depiction of Mainland China and famous landmarks, which give a greater sense of historical significance. They mention that the game features a large map with separate timelines and visually represents battles and strategic points. Additionally, the attention to detail in character design, as noted by COGconnected, is also praised. The characters are described as well-designed and visually appealing, with armor reflecting well off the world's lighting. However, the majority of critics express negative opinions regarding the Graphics and Visual Design of Dynasty Warriors 9. Many critics, including GameCritics, ZTGD, and CGMagazine, criticize the game for its poor textures, glitchy graphics, and stiff animations. They mention that the game's visuals are visually indistinguishable from an Xbox 360 game, lacking polish and not meeting the standards of a current generation game. The open world design is often described as empty, barren, and lacking a sense of discovery. The environments are criticized for being repetitive, with a muted color palette and vast stretches of bleak scrub land. Overall, the consensus among the critics is that the Graphics and Visual Design of Dynasty Warriors 9 are lacking. While some aspects, such as character design and the depiction of famous landmarks, receive praise, the majority of critics highlight the game's technical performance issues, including frame rate drops, pop-in, and graphical glitches. The open world is often described as empty, lacking variety, and not visually interesting to explore. The visuals are generally criticized for their lack of polish and not meeting the standards of a current generation game. Despite fleeting moments of beauty and diversity in the environments, the overall sentiment is that the Graphics and Visual Design of Dynasty Warriors 9 fall short of expectations.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Critics have mixed views on the Graphics and Visual Design of Dynasty Warriors 9. While some appreciate the open world depiction of Mainland China and character design, many criticize the poor textures, glitchy graphics, and empty environments. Overall, the game's visuals are deemed lacking, with technical issues and a lack of polish overshadowing its few highlights.

Music and Sound Design

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive (80-100)

Mixed (50-79)

62%

Negative (0-49)

31%

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the music and sound design.

In terms of positives, several critics praised the distinct sound design in Dynasty Warriors 9. COGconnected mentioned the use of different sound effects for various weapons, adding depth and immersion to the gameplay. GameSpot also commended the soundtrack, noting the shift from softer, traditional sounds to more intense drums and guitars, which enhanced the action-packed feel of the game. Additionally, PlayStation Universe highlighted the voice acting, describing it as fitting the overblown melodrama of the game's narrative and adding to the overall experience. On the negative side, the voice acting in Dynasty Warriors 9 received significant criticism from multiple reviewers. CGMagazine, DarkStation, Cheat Code Central, Metro GameCentral, and Shacknews all expressed disappointment with the voice acting. CGMagazine and Cheat Code Central specifically described it as bad and horrendous, respectively, with repetitive voice lines and generic phrases being repeated by allies. DarkStation and Metro GameCentral further criticized the voice actors for sounding bored and characterized the voiceovers as notably poor. These criticisms indicate a consensus among critics that the voice acting in the game was subpar. Overall, the opinions of the critics regarding the sound design and music of Dynasty Warriors 9 are mixed. While there are positive aspects, such as the distinct sound design for weapons and the fitting voice acting for the game's melodramatic narrative, the negative feedback on the voice acting is more prevalent. Critics like CGMagazine, DarkStation, Cheat Code Central, Metro GameCentral, and Shacknews all expressed disappointment with the voice acting, highlighting issues such as repetitive lines, generic phrases, and a lack of enthusiasm from the actors. However, it is worth noting that not all critics provided specific details about the sound design and music, with some focusing more on other aspects of the game.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Critics praised Dynasty Warriors 9 for its distinct sound design and immersive soundtrack, enhancing the gameplay experience. However, the game faced significant criticism for its poor voice acting, with multiple reviewers describing it as bad, horrendous, and lacking enthusiasm. While the sound design and music received mixed reviews, the consensus is that the voice acting fell short, overshadowing the game's positive aspects.

Voice Acting

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive (80-100)

Mixed (50-79)

46%

Negative (0-49)

54%

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the voice acting.

The opinions of the critics regarding the voice acting in Dynasty Warriors 9 are mixed. Some critics, such as PlayStation Universe, appreciate that the voice acting fits the overblown melodrama of the game's narrative, adding to the overall experience. This positive aspect is mentioned as a notable feature that enhances the game. Additionally, App Trigger mentions that the game offers three excellent voice options, although further details or evaluation are not provided. However, the overall sentiment towards the voice acting in Dynasty Warriors 9 is predominantly negative. Critics like GameCritics and CGMagazine criticize the lack of consistency and describe the voice acting as cringey and bad throughout the game. Twinfinite also mentions that the voice acting is still corny, indicating a lack of improvement from previous entries. Cheat Code Central goes as far as comparing the voice acting to a malevolent Kermit the Frog, emphasizing the poor quality of the performances. The consensus among the critics is that the voice acting in Dynasty Warriors 9 is subpar. The negative aspects mentioned by multiple critics, such as GameSpew's critique of terrible animation and lip-syncing during story scenes, contribute to the overall perception of the voice acting being of low quality. The mixed bag of performances, highlighted by COGconnected, further supports this sentiment. Critics like GameSpot and Shacknews express strong dissatisfaction with the English voice work, with the latter describing it as stupendously bad. TheSixthAxis adds that the new voice cast is weak, particularly pointing out the laughable secondary characters. In conclusion, the voice acting in Dynasty Warriors 9 receives mostly negative reviews from the critics. While there are some positive aspects, such as the fitting melodrama mentioned by PlayStation Universe and the availability of voice options, the overall sentiment is that the voice acting is lacking in consistency, quality, and delivery. The negative feedback from critics like GameSpew, GameSpot, and Shacknews, who describe the voice acting as terrible, abysmal, and stupendously bad, respectively, further solidifies the consensus that the voice acting in Dynasty Warriors 9 falls short of expectations.

TL;DR

voice acting

Critics have mixed opinions on the voice acting in Dynasty Warriors 9. Some appreciate its melodramatic fit, but most criticize its lack of consistency and quality. Described as cringey and bad by multiple critics, the overall sentiment is negative. The voice acting is compared to a malevolent Kermit the Frog and deemed subpar, with terrible animation and lip-syncing adding to the poor quality. Despite some positive aspects, the consensus is that the voice acting in Dynasty Warriors 9 falls short of expectations.

Technical Performance

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive (80-100)

Mixed (50-79)

37%

Negative (0-49)

63%

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the technical performance.

In terms of the Technical Performance of Dynasty Warriors 9, there are some positives and negatives across different gaming platforms. On the positive side, some critics mentioned improvements and updates that have addressed certain technical issues. Gamers' Temple noted improved framerate and shorter loading times after updates on the PS4. This suggests that the developers have actively worked on addressing some of the performance issues. Additionally, Press Start Australia mentioned that the game delivers a few bugs, which is expected in open-world games. However, the negatives regarding the Technical Performance of Dynasty Warriors 9 outweigh the positives. Multiple critics, such as GameCritics, GameSpew, ZTGD, Cubed3, Twinfinite, Cheat Code Central, Destructoid, GameSpot, Gaming Age, GamingTrend, Metro GameCentral, PSX Extreme, PlayStation LifeStyle, PlayStation Universe, Shacknews, and VideoGamer, criticized the game for various technical issues. These issues include framerate problems, screen-tearing, glitchiness, disappearing and reappearing enemies, performance problems during horse riding, graphical issues like pixelation and choppy visuals, low frame rates, slow texture loading, animation glitches, and frequent crashes. The PC version was specifically mentioned by Cubed3 and Twinfinite as being frustrating and difficult to control, hindering the fun combat. Overall, the consensus among the critics is that Dynasty Warriors 9 suffers from significant technical issues across all gaming platforms. The game is described as a technical disaster by GameCritics, with GameSpew and ZTGD also highlighting dire performance and glitchiness. The PS4 version, in particular, seems to have a multitude of issues, including unstable frame rates, pop-in problems, and uneven animations, as mentioned by PlayStation Universe and PSX Extreme. While there were some improvements mentioned by Gamers' Temple and Press Start Australia, the overall sentiment suggests that the technical performance of Dynasty Warriors 9 is subpar and negatively impacts the gameplay experience.

TL;DR

technical performance

Dynasty Warriors 9 faces major technical issues on all gaming platforms, with critics pointing out problems like framerate issues, glitches, and crashes. Despite some improvements, the consensus is that the game's performance hinders the overall gameplay experience.

Replay Value

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive (80-100)

44%

Mixed (50-79)

38%

Negative (0-49)

19%

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the replay value.

The opinions of the critics regarding the replay value of Dynasty Warriors 9 are varied. Several critics, such as DarkStation and GameStar, highlight the game's large roster of playable characters and the ability to spend numerous hours exploring their unique storylines and endings. This aspect of the game adds to its replayability, as players can experience different perspectives and narratives with each character. Additionally, GameSpot praises the variety of characters and activities, suggesting that these elements contribute to the game's replay value. PlayStation LifeStyle also mentions the game's different officers and skills, which further enhance the replayability factor. However, there are also criticisms regarding the replay value of Dynasty Warriors 9. IGN Italia mentions the lack of additional modes outside of Story mode, which may limit the game's replayability for some players. IGN also raises concerns about the mission variety and the inconvenience of changing characters mid-game. Metro GameCentral adds that unlocking different characters often involves repeating the same missions, and there is a lack of additional modes or multiplayer options. VideoGamer criticizes the optional quests and additional activities, stating that they do not add compelling or necessary replay value to the game. Overall, the consensus among the critics is that Dynasty Warriors 9 offers a decent amount of replay value due to its large roster of characters, multiple storylines, and the ability to explore different perspectives. The game's variety of characters and activities, as well as the ability to carry over acquired items, are mentioned as positive aspects contributing to its replayability. However, there are criticisms regarding the lack of additional modes, mission variety, and repetitive nature of some quests. Despite these drawbacks, the game still manages to provide enough content and fresh elements to warrant another playthrough, as mentioned by critics like Press Start Australia and PlayStation Universe.

TL;DR

replay value

Critics have mixed opinions on the replay value of Dynasty Warriors 9. Some praise its diverse characters and storylines for added replayability, while others criticize the lack of modes and repetitive missions. Overall, the game offers enough content and variety to warrant multiple playthroughs, despite its flaws.

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive (80-100)

17%

Mixed (50-79)

68%

Negative (0-49)

16%

Based on analyzing all available reviews that scored and critiqued the game.

Overall, the opinions of the critics regarding the Overall Verdict of Dynasty Warriors 9 are quite mixed. There are both positive and negative aspects highlighted by the reviewers. In terms of positives, some critics appreciate the game's combat system and the spectacle of warfare portrayed through the open-world map. GameSpot mentions that the new open-world format is a big improvement and is worth a look for fans and the curious. COGconnected praises the combat, intuitive design, and loads of content, while GamingTrend states that the game is a great choice for anyone who wants to feel powerful as they annihilate enemies on the battlefield. IGN Italia also mentions that the gameplay is fresh and engaging, and the graphics and visual design offer a vast and varied territory to explore. On the negative side, several critics criticize the game for its technical issues, repetitive nature, and clunky implementation. GameCritics describes Dynasty Warriors 9 as a complete mess and an embarrassment, suggesting that Omega Force should drop the open-world elements. ZTGD mentions that the game feels half-baked, with out-of-place systems and a lack of support from the development team. Cubed3 criticizes the PC version for its convoluted systems and poor implementation of the open-world. IGN mentions the lack of interesting content in the open world and the repetitive nature of combat encounters. Overall, the consensus among the critics is that Dynasty Warriors 9 has its flaws but still offers an enjoyable experience for fans of the franchise. Some critics, such as Twinfinite and GamingTrend, see potential in the game and hope for future refinements and improvements. However, there is a general sentiment that the game falls short in various aspects, with reviewers like CGMagazine and Digital Chumps suggesting that unless you are a die-hard Dynasty Warriors fan, you may not have a good time playing it. The overall sentiment leans towards disappointment, with critics like PSX Extreme and Shacknews expressing the need for changes in future installments.

TL;DR

Critics have mixed opinions on Dynasty Warriors 9. Positives include praise for the combat system and open-world spectacle, while negatives point out technical issues and repetitive gameplay. Some see potential for improvement, but overall, the game falls short for many critics who express disappointment and suggest changes for future installments.

MONSTER

Reviews

126 reviews found

Twinfinite

Feb 13, 2018

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The review states that Dynasty Warriors 9 is a defining moment in the series history and hopes that the game will be further polished to appeal to the mainstream market. It gives the game a score of 4/5, categorizing it as 'Great'.

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GamingTrend

PlayStation 4

Feb 13, 2018

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Dynasty Warriors 9 is a great choice for anyone that wants to feel powerful as they annihilate hundreds of enemies on the battlefield. The open world aspect and replayability make it worth playing, despite some graphical and repetitive issues.

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COGconnected

PlayStation 4

Feb 13, 2018

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The review describes Dynasty Warriors 9 as an experiment that over-delivers where it counts and retains and improves upon the original hack and slash experience. It praises the combat, intuitive design, and loads of content, but criticizes the side quests, RPG elements, graphical issues, and mediocre voice work/dialogue.

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PlayStation Universe

PlayStation 4

Feb 13, 2018

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The review concludes that the changes in Dynasty Warriors 9 freshen the series and provide a jumping off point for future refinement. Despite some technical issues and visual downgrades, there is plenty to enjoy in the game.

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IGN Italia

PlayStation 4

Feb 13, 2018

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Dynasty Warriors 9 represents a historical turning point for the series, combining its classic formula with an open-world structure. While the developers' ambitions may exceed their capabilities, the game manages to maintain the spirit of the series. The gameplay is fresh and engaging, although there are some uncertainties. The graphics and visual design offer a vast and varied territory to explore, but the overwhelming elements at the beginning can be destabilizing. The story is not particularly deep but still captivating. Overall, the game provides a notable sense of freedom and offers replay value through character progression and exploration.

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Gaming Age

PlayStation 4

Feb 13, 2018

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The review states that despite its flaws, Dynasty Warriors 9 is worth checking out for fans of the Warriors games, as it still offers the core experience of mowing down enemy armies.

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Gamers' Temple

PlayStation 4

Feb 16, 2018

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

A good step forward for the Dynasty Warriors series, but still needs improvement in open world design

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God is a Geek

Feb 13, 2018

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The game is fun and offers everything you would expect from a Dynasty Warriors game, but lacks difficulty and the map discourages exploration.

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Press Start Australia

PlayStation 4

Feb 13, 2018

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Dynasty Warriors 9 reinvents itself with an open world and offers a more enjoyable experience, but doesn't bring much new to the crowded market of open world games.

GameSpot

PlayStation 4

Feb 13, 2018

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Despite the graphical flaws and combat issues, Dynasty Warriors 9 is a big improvement with its new open-world format. It is a must for fans and worth a look for the curious.