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 increased diversity.

Stolz-Zwilling stated, "We've faced various criticisms over the years. It seems there's always a new label attached to us, while we're simply focused on developing a compelling game." This comment follows criticism from some players and reviewers who labeled the game "woke" due to its inclusion of LGBTQ+ content and other elements.

Senior Game Designer Ondřej Bittner echoed this sentiment, stating, "We believe the extreme voices are perpetually dissatisfied."

The Historical Basis 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 Europe resulted in a richer, more diverse environment than previously depicted in the series.

Bittner highlighted the inclusion of diverse cultural elements, such as Italian characters, German-speaking individuals, and a Jewish quarter, emphasizing, "It's crucial to not only represent these groups but also to accurately portray their perspectives, a detail often overlooked in games claiming diversity."

Stolz-Zwilling clarified that neither publisher Plaion nor Embracer Group influenced Warhorse Studios' creative decisions. The team's approach to KCD2 was shaped solely by community feedback, with all elements thoroughly researched and vetted. "Everything included is historically grounded and meticulously verified," he confirmed.

Pre-Orders Remain Strong Despite Controversy

Addressing rumors of refund requests following the backlash, KCD2 Writer Daniel Vávra tweeted (X) that return rates remain consistent. He attributed the game's lower Steam chart position to concurrent sales of discounted titles, citing similar drops in pre-orders for Monster Hunter: Wilds.

Vávra also refuted claims of a Saudi Arabian ban due to unskippable LGBTQ+ scenes, clarifying that the game's RPG nature allows players agency in their choices and the subsequent consequences, reflecting the moral and social norms of the era.

Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2 is available now on Xbox Series X|S, PlayStation 5, and PC. Visit our dedicated page for more details.