Warhorse Studios continues to develop Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2 amidst ongoing controversies. The game’s incorporation of diverse characters and optional gay romance has ignited debates among its audience. This follows the studio’s efforts to enhance historical authenticity by expanding the narrative beyond the original game’s focus.
Warhorse Studios has a history of engaging in discussions about representation. Previously, the original game faced scrutiny over its portrayal of medieval Europe, questioning the absence of people of color. The sequel attempts to address these issues by introducing a wider range of characters, reflecting the diverse makeup of Kuttenberg, a significant city in Bohemia.
Initial Controversy Surrounds Kingdom Come: Deliverance
Before the release of the first Kingdom Come: Deliverance, critics questioned its historical accuracy regarding the lack of diversity. This led to polarized opinions, with some labeling the game as ahistorical and others defending it against perceived ‘woke’ criticisms. The game’s director, Daniel Vávra, further fueled the debate by supporting Gamergate, intensifying the scrutiny the studio faced.
Diversity Features Spark New Criticism
With the sequel, Warhorse Studios introduced features such as an optional gay romance and a broader array of non-white, non-Christian characters. These additions have prompted backlash from the same critics who previously questioned the game’s diversity.
“History rhymes. It’s not repeating itself. It rhymes.”
Tobias Stolz-Zwilling, global PR manager
Stolz-Zwilling expressed frustration over being labeled unfairly, emphasizing the studio’s intent to create an authentic gaming experience rather than promoting an agenda.
Warhorse Maintains Commitment to Historical Authenticity
Despite the backlash, Warhorse Studios asserts that their commitment to historical accuracy remains unchanged. The inclusion of diverse characters is explained by the historical setting of Kuttenberg, which was a melting pot in medieval Bohemia.
I think that it’s important to not just include these people, but their vision of the world.
Ondřej Bittner, senior game designer
Bittner highlighted that the diverse population of Kuttenberg reflects its status as the royal mint and a key city in the Holy Roman Empire, necessitating a more varied character representation.
The sequel delves deeper into the lives and motivations of its characters, moving beyond the simplistic portrayals seen in the original game. This approach aims to provide a richer and more nuanced narrative, allowing players to engage with a broader spectrum of perspectives within the game’s historical framework.
Warhorse Studios expresses a desire to be recognized for their work in game development rather than being embroiled in external conflicts over representation. The team continues to rely on extensive research and collaboration with historians to ensure the authenticity of the game’s setting and characters.
The ongoing controversy surrounding Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2 underscores the challenges developers face when balancing historical accuracy with modern expectations of diversity and inclusion. Warhorse Studios remains focused on delivering a compelling narrative while addressing feedback from a diverse player base.
Balancing historical representation with contemporary values is a complex task for game developers. Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2 exemplifies the efforts to create an inclusive yet historically grounded narrative. Players can expect a multifaceted exploration of medieval Bohemia that respects both historical context and diverse storytelling.
