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 is simply focused on creating an engaging game. He highlighted the cyclical nature of criticism, emphasizing that the studio's goal remains consistent: to develop a compelling video game experience.
Stolz-Zwilling's comments followed criticism from some fans and critics who labeled the game's inclusion of LGBTQ+ content and other elements as "woke." Senior Game Designer Ondřej Bittner echoed Stolz-Zwilling's sentiments, suggesting that extreme viewpoints often overshadow constructive feedback. He pointed out that the team strives for accuracy, not to push any specific agenda.
Historical Context and Diversity in KCD2
The game's setting in Kuttenberg, Bohemia's financial center, naturally lends itself to a more diverse cast of characters. 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 representing not only these diverse populations but also their unique perspectives, a detail often overlooked in games claiming to be diverse.
Stolz-Zwilling further clarified that neither publisher Plaion nor Embracer Group influenced the game's content; the team's approach to KCD2 was shaped solely by community feedback and a commitment to historical accuracy. He emphasized that all elements included in the game underwent rigorous fact-checking.
Pre-orders Remain Strong Despite Backlash
Addressing rumors of refund requests following the controversy, writer Daniel Vávra stated on Twitter (X) that KCD2's return rate remains consistent. He attributed recent lower Steam chart rankings to discounted competing titles, citing the impact on Monster Hunter: Wilds pre-orders as a comparable example. Vávra also debunked rumors of a Saudi Arabian ban, clarifying that the game's LGBTQ+ representation is handled within the context of a role-playing game, leaving player choices and their consequences to the player's agency and the game's historical setting.
Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2 is available now on Xbox Series X|S, PlayStation 5, and PC. For more information, visit our Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2 page.
