*Image Credit: KOEI TECMO GAMES CO., LTD.*

Running across massive battlefields in Dynasty Warriors: Origins can feel like a workout. Luckily, you don’t have to rely on your legs forever—this is where your horse comes in. Not only does it help you get around faster, but you can also fight from horseback for some satisfying hit-and-run action. Here’s how to unlock a horse, level it up, and switch to new or better ones as you progress.

How to Unlock Your First Horse

The first horse is basically handed to you for free (which is nice because you’ll need it).

When You Get It:
- You’ll unlock your first horse in Chapter 1 after completing the second major battle, Test of Zhang Fei.
Where to Find the Merchant:
- After finishing the battle, head northeast from Wan Castle toward the Battle of Guangzong.
- Look for a merchant standing next to his horse in the overworld. He’ll gift you your first horse, no strings attached.
How to Summon Your Horse:
- Console: Press down on the left joystick.
- Keyboard: Press V.

And just like that, you’re a proud horse owner.

How to Level Up Your Horse

Your horse doesn’t just sit there looking majestic—it can level up and gain unique buffs, making it even more useful in battle.

How It Gains XP:
- Completing missions or main story battles with your horse equipped (even if you don’t ride it) will earn it XP.
- Skirmishes don’t award XP for your horse, so don’t waste your time there if you’re trying to level it.
- The more you ride your horse and use it to charge into enemies, the more XP it earns.
Why It Matters:
- Each horse has unique buffs that unlock at higher levels. These perks can include better speed, increased damage, or defensive bonuses.

How to Switch Horses

Eventually, you’ll want to upgrade to a better horse. Here’s how to do it:

Where to Switch Horses:
- Go to the Battle Preparation menu and select the Horse option (it’s at the bottom of the list).
How to Get New Horses:
- Raise the peace level of a region to its maximum. When you do, a reward (usually a new horse) will appear at a nearby waypoint.
- Each horse has its own unique perks, so always compare them to see which one suits your playstyle best.

Why You Need a Horse

Faster Travel: Crossing battlefields on foot is fine—if you enjoy being late. A horse gets you where you need to go without the cardio.
Combat Utility: Charge into enemy crowds for quick knockbacks and satisfying chaos.
Style Points: Let’s face it—everything looks cooler on horseback.

Final Blurb

Unlocking and leveling up your horse in Dynasty Warriors: Origins isn’t complicated, but it makes a huge difference in how you play. Whether you’re zipping across the battlefield or trampling enemies, your horse will quickly become your best friend.

Now go out there, get your horse, and start dominating the battlefield like the mounted legend you were meant to be. Just don’t forget to say thanks to that merchant—you owe him one.