Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2 Faces Backlash, Developers Defend Historical Accuracy

Warhorse Studios, the developers behind Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2 (KCD2), are pushing back against recent 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, regardless of external pressures. He highlighted the cyclical nature of criticism, suggesting the studio is consistently targeted for various reasons.
Senior Game Designer Ondřej Bittner echoed this sentiment, attributing the negative feedback to a vocal minority who are inherently dissatisfied. He emphasized the team's commitment to their vision.

Historical Accuracy and Diverse Representation in KCD2
The game's setting in Kuttenberg, Bohemia's financial center, naturally lends itself to a more diverse cast than its predecessor. Bittner explained that the city's role as the royal mint attracted individuals from various ethnic backgrounds, including Italians and Germans, as well as a notable Jewish quarter. He stressed the importance of not only representing these groups but also accurately portraying their unique perspectives and experiences, a detail often overlooked in games claiming diversity.
Stolz-Zwilling clarified that the game's inclusivity wasn't mandated by the publisher (Plaion or Embracer), but rather a result of meticulous research and a commitment to historical accuracy. He emphasized the rigorous fact-checking process employed during development.

Pre-Orders and Sales Remain Strong
Addressing online rumors of widespread refunds, KCD2 Writer Daniel Vávra took to Twitter (X) to dispel these claims. He confirmed that return rates remain consistent with industry norms, attributing recent fluctuations in Steam chart rankings to promotional discounts on competing titles. He also debunked rumors of a Saudi Arabian ban, clarifying that the game's LGBTQ+ content is presented within the context of a role-playing game, leaving player choices and their consequences entirely in the player's hands.
Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2 is currently available on Xbox Series X|S, PlayStation 5, and PC. For more information, visit our Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2 page.