Kingdom Come: Deliverance II builds upon the foundations of its predecessor with an ambitious new chapter of its medieval role-playing experience. Set once again in 15th-century Bohemia, the game continues the journey of Henry, refining and expanding the realism-driven mechanics and visuals that made the original stand out. Warhorse Studios has not only improved the visuals and world design but has also deepened the RPG systems, making every choice and action feel even more meaningful.
One of the most notable improvements is in the combat system. While the first game had a steep learning curve with its directional melee mechanics, the sequel refines these mechanics to feel more responsive and engaging. Swordplay is more fluid this time around, with better hit detection and enhanced AI behavior that makes enemy encounters less predictable. Additionally, improvements to archery and horseback combat help create a more balanced experience for different playstyles. New weapons and armor types also expand tactical possibilities, giving players greater flexibility in battle.
The world of Kingdom Come: Deliverance II is richer and more immersive than before, with enhanced NPC interactions and a dynamic world that reacts more believably to the player’s actions. The improved AI system ensures that townspeople follow more complex routines, making the settlements feel even more alive. Side quests are more varied, with deeper branching paths that reward different playstyles, from diplomacy to brute force to stealth. This strengthens the role-playing elements, making each decision carry weight beyond the main storyline.
Storytelling remains a highlight, with Henry’s journey continuing in a way that feels both personal and historically grounded. Warhorse Studios has refined its cinematic approach, delivering cutscenes that blend seamlessly into gameplay. The voice acting and writing have also seen improvements, making character interactions more engaging than they were in the first game. While the pacing can still be slow compared to mainstream RPGs, the detailed world-building and historical accuracy make for an immersive experience that rewards patience.
However, despite these enhancements, Kingdom Come: Deliverance II is not without its drawbacks. Some lingering technical issues, including occasional bugs and performance hiccups, can detract from immersion. Additionally, the game’s realism-focused mechanics -such as hunger, stamina, and the save system – may still frustrate players who prefer a more streamlined experience. While these mechanics have been slightly refined, they remain a divisive aspect of the game’s core design.
Overall, Kingdom Come: Deliverance II successfully builds upon its predecessor, offering a richer and more polished medieval RPG experience. With its improved combat, deeper role-playing elements, and a more reactive world, it stands as a worthy sequel. While some of the more punishing realism mechanics and technical quirks persist, fans of the original and those seeking an immersive, historically inspired adventure will find much to enjoy in this ambitious follow-up, and will likely look forward to the inevitable post-launch DLC chapters once they wrap up the lengthy campaign of this gorgeous game.
Score: 9.0/10
Press Play Media 