Warhorse Studios Addresses Backlash Surrounding Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2's Increased Diversity
Warhorse Studios is pushing back against the negative online reaction to Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2 (KCD2), emphasizing their commitment to creating an engaging and historically accurate game. In a recent PC Gamer interview (February 3, 2025), PR Manager Tobias Stolz-Zwilling addressed the controversy surrounding the game's enhanced diversity.
Stolz-Zwilling stated, "We've faced various criticisms over the years. It seems there's always a new label attached to us, while our focus remains on developing a compelling game." This comment follows criticism from some fans and critics who labeled the game's inclusion of LGBTQ+ content and other elements as "woke."
Senior Game Designer Ondřej Bittner echoed this sentiment, stating, "We believe the extreme voices are perpetually dissatisfied."
The Historical Context of KCD2's Diversity
The game's setting in Kuttenberg, Bohemia's financial center, naturally lends itself to a more diverse population than previous installments. Bittner explained, "Kuttenberg's status as the royal mint attracted people from various ethnic backgrounds." This influx of individuals from across the globe contributed to a richer cultural tapestry than seen in earlier games.
Bittner highlighted the inclusion of diverse characters and cultures, including Italians, German speakers, and a Jewish quarter, emphasizing, "It's crucial not only to represent these groups but also to accurately portray their perspectives, a detail often overlooked in games claiming to be diverse."
Stolz-Zwilling clarified that Warhorse Studios' creative choices were driven by historical research and community feedback, not external pressure from their publisher, Plaion or Embracer. "Every element included has undergone rigorous verification," he confirmed.
Pre-Orders Remain Steady Despite Controversy
Addressing rumors of refund requests following the backlash, KCD2 Writer Daniel Vávra stated on Twitter (X) that return rates remain consistent. He attributed the game's lower Steam chart position to concurrent discounts on competing titles, citing Monster Hunter: Wilds as a similar example.
Vávra also refuted claims of a Saudi Arabian ban due to LGBTQ+ content, asserting that the game's role-playing nature allows players agency in their choices and that they are responsible for the consequences within the game's historical context.
Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2 is available now on Xbox Series X|S, PlayStation 5, and PC. Visit our Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2 page for more details.
