Overview
Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2 (KC:D2) builds on the success of its 2018 predecessor, enhancing its focus on historical accuracy, intricate role-playing systems, and an expansive open world. Set in 15th-century Bohemia, players once again take on the role of Henry, a blacksmith’s son navigating political intrigue, brutal warfare, and the daily struggles of medieval life. With a $69 price tag (Standard Edition) and availability on PC, PS5, and Xbox Series X, KC:D2 is essential for fans of slow-burn, realism-driven RPGs, though its demanding mechanics may deter newcomers.

Strengths

A Living, Breathing Medieval World
KC:D2’s open world is a standout, divided into two expansive regions (Trosky and Kuttenberg), filled with dynamic NPCs, bustling cities, and historically accurate landmarks. Kuttenberg, inspired by the real-life Kutná Hora, is one of the most immersive cities in gaming, where NPCs follow daily routines, react to the player, and remember past interactions—whether they’re heroic or criminal. The world feels truly alive, with unscripted events like tavern brawls and villagers’ reactions to the player’s bloodstained clothes enhancing its realism.

Quest Design and Player Choice
The game’s 100+ quests are a masterclass in storytelling, avoiding repetitive fetch tasks in favor of morally complex, multi-path narratives. For example, resolving a feud between a hag and a landowner can have unforeseen consequences, such as being branded a criminal for hiding a body. Side quests often intertwine, creating ripple effects that shape Henry’s reputation and the world around him. One reviewer highlighted a quest where helping a tavern owner bypass a speech check due to prior actions felt both organic and rewarding.

Combat: Brutal, Tactical, and Refined
Melee combat retains its directional attack system but adds smoother combos and smarter AI. Duels remain tense and skillful, while group fights remain challenging, requiring players to strategize or retreat. Archery and blacksmithing have been refined, though blacksmithing’s mini-game still feels somewhat shallow compared to the intricate mechanics of alchemy.

Historical Authenticity
KC:D2’s commitment to realism is unmatched, from period-accurate armor to the effects of food spoilage. Henry must eat, sleep, and maintain hygiene to survive, and dialogue checks are influenced by his cleanliness, reputation, and appearance. The game’s detailed focus on medieval culture—including crafting, politics, and even pilgrimages—immerses players in a world that feels genuinely lived-in.

Technical Improvements
Unlike its bug-prone predecessor, KC:D2 runs smoothly on modern hardware, with stable frame rates and minimal crashes. Minor glitches, such as texture pop-ins and NPC pathfinding issues, still occur but are less disruptive. The game’s CryEngine-powered visuals shine, especially in dense forests and sunlit castles. Upscaling options are available for lower-end PCs.

Weaknesses

Frustrating Save System
Manual saves require scarce "Saviour Schnapps" potions or owned beds, a design choice that severely punishes mistakes. Autosaves are inconsistent, often resulting in lost progress after unexpected deaths. While some praise this for adding tension, others find it archaic and frustrating.

Steep Learning Curve
New players may struggle with the game’s clunky mechanics, such as lockpicking, reputation management, and combat. The game offers little guidance, demanding patience to master its systems. One reviewer shared that they spent hours relearning swordplay after a narrative reset.

Narrative Pacing Issues
While the main story explores themes of revenge and morality, its pacing falters in later acts. A late-game quest that forces players to infiltrate a camp they’ve already destroyed highlights the disconnect between the game’s open-world freedom and its linear storytelling.

Underdeveloped Systems
Blacksmithing and armor customization feel less fleshed out compared to alchemy, and the opaque reputation system can lead to confusion—such as villagers turning hostile without clear cause.

Verdict
Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2 is a masterclass in immersive role-playing, offering unparalleled freedom and a richly detailed world. While its punishing mechanics and occasional technical hiccups may deter casual players, those willing to invest the time will find one of the most rewarding RPGs of the decade. With over 100 hours of content and a gripping narrative, it’s an early contender for Game of the Year 2025.

Score: 9/10
Perfect for: Fans of The Witcher 3, history buffs, and players craving a slow-burn, consequence-driven RPG.
Avoid if: You prefer fast-paced action or simplified mechanics.