Daniel Vávra, the director of Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2 and co-founder of Warhorse Studios, recently addressed and dismissed rumors suggesting a decline in the game’s pre-orders fueled by public backlash. Slated for release in February 2025, this eagerly awaited sequel follows the original 2018 game. Players will once again join Henry as he navigates the chaos of a medieval civil war, exploring a world that boasts a map twice the size of its predecessor’s.
Vávra swiftly tackled the critics surrounding Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2’s inclusion of LGBTQ scenes. He noted the online chatter and the cultural tug-of-war over inclusivity, declaring that Warhorse Studios strives to steer clear of such conflicts. Despite the franchise’s shift towards greater inclusivity, Vávra assured fans that the game’s historical authenticity remains untainted.
On Twitter, Vávra countered claims about the game’s dropping pre-orders by sharing two screenshots. One showed a YouTuber labeling the game as “woke” and alleging that “mass pre-order refunds” were being processed. Vávra slammed the accuser as a “grifter” and confirmed that there has been no decline in pre-orders; the sales and returns ratios remain unchanged. He hinted that any perception of decreased pre-order numbers could be attributed to reduced hype and the introduction of nine heavily discounted games in the market. The YouTuber in question retaliated, arguing they had actually defended the game in their video while pointing to recent updates to the game’s Steam Code of Conduct as contentious.
In another Twitter thread, Vávra tackled a series of “wild claims” surrounding the sequel’s backlash. He emphasized the team’s desire to avoid Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2 becoming mere clickbait and expressed sorrow over the rampant negativity, which he fears could harm any cause linked to it. Vávra further clarified that there are no “unskippable” cutscenes in the sequel, dismissing such claims as misunderstandings from those unfamiliar with the game.
Additionally, Vávra debunked reports alleging that Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2 might face a ban in Saudi Arabia due to its LGBTQ content. He asserted that, to the studio’s knowledge, the game hasn’t been banned in any country. Furthermore, he reassured that Warhorse maintains full control over content decisions regarding inclusivity and allows players to make their own relationship choices.
Kingdom Come: Deliverance II offers an enthralling Action RPG experience set amidst the turmoil of a 15th-century Bohemian civil war. Step into the shoes of Henry of Skalitz—an ordinary blacksmith determined to right the wrongs of his world. Explore majestic medieval landscapes, from vibrant towns to serene forests, in a gripping story of revenge and self-discovery. The game promises an unforgettable journey in an open-world setting peppered with action and intrigue.
Scheduled for release on February 4, 2025, this game will be available for PlayStation, Xbox, and PC. Developed using CryEngine, it is optimized for the latest consoles, though its Steam Deck compatibility remains uncertain. Marketed as suitable for adults with Mature 17+ ratings for its intense themes, it promises solo gaming thrills in medieval Europe.
