Stepping back into medieval Bohemia felt like returning home—if home was a beautifully crafted, war-torn land filled with political intrigue, sword fights, and the ever-present struggle for survival.
Kingdom Come: Deliverance II had a lot to live up to, and after spending countless hours exploring its depths, I can confidently say that Warhorse Studios has outdone itself.
But does it truly deliver the immersive, brutally realistic RPG experience fans were hoping for?
Or does it fall into the trap of being too ambitious for its own good?
Let’s dive deep into what makes this game both an absolute gem and, at times, a punishing endeavor.
Final Score: 9/10
Pros:
- Stunningly detailed world
- Deep and meaningful storytelling
- Improved combat mechanics
- Immersive audio and music
- Rewarding, player-driven progression
Cons:
- Occasional bugs
- Steep learning curve
- Some pacing issues
A Living, Breathing Medieval World
The moment you step into the game, you’re greeted by an environment that feels real. The developers have meticulously recreated 15th-century Bohemia, bringing to life dense forests, cobblestone roads, lively villages, and breathtaking castles. The attention to detail is nothing short of stunning.
The biggest improvement? The world feels alive. Villagers have daily routines, react naturally to your presence, and even remember past interactions. If you help a merchant fend off bandits, he might cut you a deal later. If you steal from a noble, expect consequences.
Every location is dripping with history, and it’s clear that Warhorse Studios has put immense effort into ensuring historical accuracy. The level of realism can be overwhelming—but for those who love deep immersion, this is an absolute treat.
The Story: A Tale of Revenge and Growth
Picking up where the first game left off, we step back into the boots of Henry, the blacksmith’s son who continues his journey of revenge, honor, and self-discovery.
Unlike many RPGs that hand you a grand destiny on a silver platter, Kingdom Come II makes you earn every bit of progress. Henry is not a chosen hero or a legendary warrior—he’s just a man trying to survive in a cruel world.
The writing is sharp, the characters feel human, and every decision you make carries weight. Side quests? Absolutely stellar. Even the smallest interactions can lead to branching storylines that feel as engaging as the main narrative.
If you love deep storytelling, this game won’t disappoint.
Combat: Brutal, Unforgiving, and Deeply Satisfying
Let’s get one thing straight: this is NOT a hack-and-slash game.
Combat in Kingdom Come: Deliverance II has been refined, yet it remains as challenging as ever. Every encounter requires skill, patience, and proper positioning.
The biggest changes?
- Smoother melee mechanics – The clunkiness from the first game has been reduced, making swordplay feel more fluid.
- New weapons – Crossbows and early firearms add new tactical depth.
- Improved AI – Enemies adapt, flank you, and fight smarter.
If you’re expecting to wade into battle and mow down enemies like a medieval John Wick, think again. Each fight is a test of skill, and death comes swiftly if you’re careless.
Audio & Atmosphere: A Symphony of Immersion
The sound design in this game is pure art.
From the rustling of leaves in the forest to the distant echo of a blacksmith’s hammer, everything sounds authentic. The dynamic soundtrack by Jan Valta and Adam Sporka adds emotional depth to every scene.
During battles, the music swells, enhancing the tension. In quiet moments, soft medieval melodies make you feel like you’ve been transported back in time.
The Downsides: A Few Bumps in the Road
No game is perfect, and Kingdom Come: Deliverance II has its share of flaws.
- Bugs & Glitches – While not game-breaking, occasional visual glitches and physics wonkiness can break immersion.
- Steep Learning Curve – This game is NOT beginner-friendly. Newcomers might struggle with its unforgiving mechanics.
- Pacing Issues – Some sections can feel slow, especially if you’re used to action-packed RPGs.
That said, the technical stability is miles ahead of the first game. PC Gamer acknowledged the improvements, saying:
I’ve not run into crashes, and all its ambitious systems seem truly to work, discounting a few oddities.
Final Verdict: A Love Letter to Hardcore RPG Fans
Kingdom Come: Deliverance II is a bold, uncompromising RPG that respects the intelligence of its players. It doesn’t hold your hand, and it doesn’t sugarcoat the brutal realities of medieval life.
Who Should Play This?
Fans of deep, historical RPGs like The Witcher 3 or Mount & Blade. ✅ Players who love immersion, realism, and meaningful choices. ✅ Gamers who enjoy challenging combat that rewards patience and skill.
Who Might Struggle?
Casual gamers looking for a fast-paced adventure. ❌ Those who dislike steep learning curves and brutal combat. ❌ Players who get frustrated by occasional bugs and realism-heavy mechanics.
For me, Kingdom Come II isn’t just a game—it’s an experience. A historical epic that immerses you in a world that feels tangible, alive, and absolutely unforgiving. If you’re up for the challenge, this journey through Bohemia is one you won’t forget.
