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Official Dynasty Warriors 9 news is coming our way on the 11th May, but as predicted, the usual Japanese gaming publications - namely Famitsu - have leaked the goods before the designated date. The latest issue confirms that Koei Tecmo's long awaited sequel is a PlayStation 4 title, and there's some talk that it's going to be exclusive. We can certainly see that being the case in Japan at least.

As we've known for a while, Omega Force's next hack and slasher will incorporate open world elements. We thought that could just mean much bigger battlefields to wage war upon, but apparently you're going to have the whole of China to explore as one gigantic map. This completely open structure will supposedly allow you to alter your tactics on the fly. For example, you could attack an enemy fortress from high ground if there happens to be a mountain nearby. There's also mention of sneaking into bases and eliminating your targets quietly.

The workings of the world itself sound quite in-depth. Virtual China will have its own dynamic weather system, with conditions such as rain and fog making it easier to get the jump on your foes. As far as structure goes, it sounds like you'll be able to pick and choose your own missions. Main missions will advance the Three Kingdoms timeline, while completing side missions will allow you to lower the difficulty of important battles. Apparently the combat system's getting a rather dramatic overhaul too, so we're looking forward to seeing how that turns out. Much requested warrior Cheng Pu will also put in a playable appearance.

All in all it sounds like Dynasty Warriors 9 is taking the series in a largely new direction - we just hope that it doesn't take Omega Force several sequels to get the formula right.

[source blog.esuteru.com, via gematsu.com]