Review Step into the Shoes of a Hero: Why Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2 is a Must-Play 👍

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Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2 is a game that demands to be played slowly. Every horseback ride, every dialogue, and every corner of its world deserves your attention. The developers didn’t start handing out review keys a month before release for no reason—this is a massive, multifaceted game that requires time to fully reveal its depth.

When I started playing on release day, I was reminded of a long-forgotten feeling—the joy of sleep deprivation and the desire to drop everything just to return to the adventure. After spending over 70 hours in the game, I can confidently say that it has the power to keep players engaged for even longer. This isn’t just a game; it’s a journey that leaves a lasting impression.

Should You Play If You Missed the First Game?​

Many players who skipped the first Kingdom Come: Deliverance are wondering: can you start with the sequel? Technically, yes. The game quickly brings you up to speed, explaining the world, characters, and backstory. However, it’s a bit like watching The Godfather Part II without seeing the first movie. You’ll still enjoy it, but the experience won’t feel complete.

The first game isn’t just a prequel—it’s the foundation upon which the entire story and emotional engagement are built. If you have the time, start with the original. It will help you better understand the world, the characters, and their motivations. Plus, returning to the first game after playing the sequel might feel underwhelming due to its more dated mechanics.

Return to Bohemia​

Starting Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2 feels like returning to your hometown after a long absence. Everything seems familiar, but upon closer inspection, you notice the improvements. The graphics are even more stunning, bugs are fewer, and the gameplay mechanics are more player-friendly. For example, the combat system, which was a point of contention in the first game, is now more intuitive and enjoyable.

The story unfolds against the backdrop of a civil war. The protagonist, Henry, is driven by a thirst for revenge after his village is destroyed and his loved ones are killed. As a player, you’ll have to decide how far you’re willing to go in your quest for justice. This isn’t just a tale of revenge—it’s a reflection on what it means to be a hero and how far one can go before losing themselves.

Characters and Voice Acting​

One of the standout features of Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2 is its deep character development. Even secondary characters receive more attention, and the villains feel more human. For example, Father Godwin, who was mostly a comic relief drunk in the first game, now has a more complex backstory and personal struggles.

The voice acting is top-notch. Even minor roles leave a lasting impression thanks to the emotional delivery and attention to detail. The main characters, in particular, shine. The scenes between Henry and his mentor, Sir Hans Capon, are filled with warmth and drama, making their relationship feel genuine and compelling.

Combat and Stealth Mechanics​

The combat system in Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2 has been streamlined and made more intuitive. Battles no longer feel frustrating, and the stealth mechanics are more engaging. Players must think carefully about every move to avoid detection. For example, some missions can be completed without combat if you’re cautious and use the environment to your advantage.

That said, fans of open combat won’t be disappointed. Large-scale battles and sieges add adrenaline and make you feel like a true warrior. The scenes where Henry fights multiple enemies at once are particularly thrilling. Here, it’s not just about skill—it’s also about tactics. Without the support of allies, your chances of survival drop significantly.

Character Progression and Development​

The progression system in Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2 allows you to develop skills based on your playstyle. The more you engage in a particular activity, the more bonuses you’ll earn. For example, if you frequently fight with a sword, you’ll eventually become a master of melee combat. The same goes for archery, alchemy, and even horseback riding.

However, some skills are essential for completing key quests. For instance, without sword-fighting skills, you won’t stand a chance in duels, and without stealth abilities, certain missions will be nearly impossible. This encourages players to step out of their comfort zones and try new approaches.

Role-Playing Elements and Choices​

One of the game’s strongest aspects is its role-playing depth. Players are constantly faced with choices that impact the story and their relationships with other characters. For example, during dialogues, you can try to persuade or intimidate your interlocutor, but success depends on your character’s stats and reputation.

Additionally, context matters. For instance, showing up to a formal dinner in clean, expensive clothing will earn you respect, while approaching bandits in simple, practical gear is more appropriate. These details add layers of realism and immersion to the game.

Technical Performance​

From a technical standpoint, Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2 is impressive. The game is well-optimized, and even on high graphics settings, the frame rate remains stable. However, there are still a few bugs here and there. For example, characters might get stuck in textures or behave oddly after loading a save. These moments aren’t game-breaking but can be amusing.

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Pros and Cons​

Pros	Cons
Stunning visuals and great music: The game’s graphics are breathtaking, and the soundtrack perfectly complements the medieval atmosphere.	Some parts feel drawn out: Certain sections of the game can feel unnecessarily lengthy, which might test your patience.
Memorable characters—even the side ones: From the main cast to the smallest roles, each character feels well-developed and engaging.	A couple of missions are a nightmare: A few quests are frustratingly difficult or poorly designed, leading to unnecessary headaches.
More player-friendly combat system: The combat mechanics have been refined, making battles more intuitive and enjoyable.	Minor but noticeable bugs: While not game-breaking, some glitches can break immersion or cause minor annoyances.
Freedom of choice in quests (including non-obvious options): Players have multiple ways to approach missions, with some choices having far-reaching consequences.
A vast, explorable world: The game’s world is rich in detail and rewards exploration, making it a joy to discover every corner.

Our Rating: 9/10
★★★★★★★★★☆​

Final Thoughts​

Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2 is an exceptional RPG that builds on the strengths of its predecessor while addressing many of its flaws. Despite a few pacing issues and minor bugs, it delivers a rich, immersive experience that will captivate fans of the genre. If you’re looking for a deep, story-driven adventure set in a beautifully crafted medieval world, this game is a must-play.

Read our reviews on OpenCritic