Kingdom Come: Deliverance II, set to release on February 4, 2025, continues the story of Henry, now a knight in a war-torn Bohemia. The sequel features improved combat mechanics, a rich open world for exploration, and a more engaging narrative. Players will navigate personal quests and moral choices while exploring two expansive regions. Enhanced user interfaces and a deeper dialogue system promise a more immersive experience, building on the strengths of its predecessor.
Kingdom Come: Deliverance II – A Promising Sequel
Following the tumultuous launch of the original Kingdom Come: Deliverance, Warhorse Studios shows a newfound confidence with the upcoming release of its sequel. With a fully playable version already in our hands, we share our initial impressions from the first few hours of gameplay.
Game Details:
- Genre: Action-RPG, Open World, Medieval
- Release Date: February 4, 2025
- Platforms: PC, PS5, Xbox Series
- Developer: Warhorse Studios
- Publisher: Deep Silver
- Price: €59.99
A New Adventure Unfolds
Kingdom Come: Deliverance II picks up shortly after the lackluster conclusion of its predecessor. Our protagonist, Henry, has evolved from a humble villager into a knight with purpose. Set against the backdrop of a civil war ravaging Bohemia, Henry is tasked with delivering a crucial diplomatic letter alongside the young lord, Hans Capon. For newcomers or those with foggy memories of the first game, the prologue serves as an excellent recap and tutorial.
Despite the intricate political landscape, Henry’s personal quest remains straightforward—he seeks vengeance for his parents and the recovery of his stolen sword. The narrative cleverly explains the loss of most of Henry’s previous skills and equipment, allowing players to experience the thrill of skill progression anew. Though he starts afresh, Henry retains some abilities, like reading and alchemy, while other skills have been streamlined for a smoother experience.
The combat system, which was a point of contention in the original game, has undergone significant improvements. While the AI remains challenging, the new mechanics simplify attack directions and combos, making combat more intuitive. The introduction of the master strike feature encourages players to take risks, adding depth to confrontations without sacrificing accessibility.
Archery in the game still lacks a precise aiming sight, but the addition of a crossbow offers a more user-friendly option for players. The balance between the two weapons enhances the overall combat experience, catering to various playstyles. Players can also unlock unique abilities and combos tailored to different weapon types, including the long-awaited possibility of mounted combat.
Exploration and Interaction in a Living World
Kingdom Come: Deliverance II presents two expansive regions, each boasting its own unique map. Although we can only delve into the first region in this preview, it promises to keep players engaged for around fifty hours. Expect a historically grounded environment rather than fantastical landscapes, with the city of Kuttenberg awaiting exploration in the second region, rich with life and opportunities.
The excitement of exploring hidden treasures, bandit camps, and castles enhances the game’s allure. However, players must navigate the challenges of being a criminal, as guards remain vigilant and will investigate suspicious behavior. The game introduces new mechanics for crime, including the resale of stolen goods and more severe consequences for wrongdoing, making every decision impactful.
The user interface has seen notable enhancements, streamlining the overall experience compared to the first installment. Players can now save multiple outfits for quick changes based on situational requirements, whether it be heavy armor for battle or elegant attire for city interactions. The dialogue system has also been expanded, offering more options for persuasion, further enriching the character interactions that fans loved in the original game.
As we await the final release, the game promises to deliver a captivating atmosphere that is both immersive and reflective of its medieval setting. With its combination of humor, drama, and the complexities of human nature, Kingdom Come: Deliverance II is shaping up to be an engaging addition to the genre. Let’s hope for a polished experience by launch day.