Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2 Faces Backlash, Developers Defend Historical Accuracy
Warhorse Studios, developers of Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2 (KCD2), are pushing back against recent online criticism regarding the game's increased diversity. In a February 3, 2025 interview with PC Gamer, PR Manager Tobias Stolz-Zwilling addressed the controversy, stating the team's focus remains on creating an engaging game, irrespective of external labeling. He highlighted the cyclical nature of criticism, emphasizing their commitment to game development over responding to every perceived "brand."
Senior Game Designer Ondřej Bittner echoed this sentiment, suggesting that extreme online voices are inherently difficult to satisfy. He attributed the game's diverse representation to the historical setting of Kuttenberg, Bohemia's financial center, which naturally attracted a multicultural population.
Bittner detailed the game's inclusion of various ethnicities, including Italians and German speakers, as well as a Jewish quarter, emphasizing the importance of representing not only diverse characters but also their unique perspectives. Stolz-Zwilling clarified that the game's content reflects meticulous research and historical accuracy, not external pressure from publishers Plaion or Embracer.
Addressing concerns about pre-order refunds and sales figures, writer Daniel Vávra stated on Twitter (X) that return rates remain consistent despite the controversy. He attributed recent lower Steam chart rankings to discounted competitor titles, citing the impact on Monster Hunter: Wilds pre-orders as a comparable example. Vávra also refuted rumors of a Saudi Arabian ban, clarifying that the game's LGBTQ+ representation is presented within the context of a role-playing game, allowing players agency in their choices and subsequent consequences.
Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2 is currently available on Xbox Series X|S, PlayStation 5, and PC.
