Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2: Release, Features, and Henry's Journey
Anticipation is at a fever pitch for the return to 15th-century Bohemia in *Kingdom Come: Deliverance II*. Following the incredible success of the hyper-realistic 2018 role-playing game, developer Warhorse Studios is preparing to unleash a sequel that promises to be bigger, more brutal, and more immersive in every way.
While players are understandably eager to step back into the boots of Henry of Skalitz, we’re diving into everything we know so far about his next great adventure, from the expected release window to the groundbreaking new features that await.
When is the Release Date for Kingdom Come: Deliverance II?
The single most asked question by fans is when they can finally get their hands on the game. When it was officially revealed in April 2024, Warhorse Studios initially slated *Kingdom Come: Deliverance II* for a release later in the same year. However, as the scope and ambition of the project have grown, the launch window has been updated.
While a precise, locked-in date has yet to be announced by the studio, the current target is for an early 2025 release. This adjustment gives the development team the necessary time to polish the massive world, refine the new gameplay mechanics, and ensure the sequel lives up to the high standards set by its predecessor. The game is confirmed to launch simultaneously on PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X/S.
A Tale of Two Maps: Exploring a Larger Bohemia
One of the most exciting advancements in the sequel is the sheer scale of its world. *Kingdom Come: Deliverance II* will feature a game world that is roughly twice the size of the original. This expanded landscape is split between two distinct new maps, each offering unique environments and challenges.
Players will get to explore the magnificent city of Kuttenberg (now Kutná Hora), a bustling silver-mining metropolis that was one of the most important and wealthy cities in Europe during that period. This urban playground will offer a stark contrast to the rustic villages of the first game, promising intricate political intrigue, a thriving economy, and countless stories hidden within its walls.
The second map offers a more rugged and wild experience, known as the "Bohemian Paradise." This area is famed for its dramatic landscapes and the iconic Trosky Castle, a formidable fortress perched atop two volcanic plugs. This region will provide ample opportunity for exploration, conflict, and discovering the natural beauty and danger of the medieval countryside.
Evolved Combat: From Swords to Early Firearms
The challenging and rewarding first-person combat system was a hallmark of the original game, and Warhorse Studios is building upon that strong foundation. The goal is to make combat feel more authentic and accessible without sacrificing its depth. Players can expect a more refined and responsive melee system, but the biggest game-changer is the introduction of new ranged weaponry.
Key combat additions and improvements include:
- Crossbows: A much-requested weapon, crossbows will offer a powerful and easier-to-use alternative to the traditional bow, perfect for ambushes and sieges.
- Early Firearms: In a bold and historically accurate move, the game will feature primitive firearms like the arquebus. These powerful but slow-to-reload weapons will introduce a completely new tactical layer to combat, capable of piercing heavy armor but leaving the user vulnerable.
- Refined Melee: The core sword-and-shield combat has been tweaked to be more intuitive for newcomers while retaining the strategic "five-point star" attack system that veterans love.
Henry's Story Continues: From Blacksmith's Son to Knight
*Kingdom Come: Deliverance II* picks up where the first game left off, continuing the compelling journey of Henry of Skalitz. No longer a helpless peasant boy, Henry is now a man of action, entangled in the high-stakes politics of kings and nobles. The story throws players directly into the chaos of a brutal civil war, as King Wenceslas IV battles his ambitious and ruthless half-brother, Sigismund of Hungary.
Henry finds himself in the service of Sir Hans Capon, embarking on a quest that will test his loyalty, skill, and conscience. His personal quest for revenge for his murdered family becomes intertwined with a patriotic mission to help shape the future of Bohemia. The narrative promises a more cinematic and epic tone, moving from the struggles of a commoner to the grand-scale conflicts that define a kingdom, all while retaining the grounded, human element that made Henry’s first story so relatable.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is Kingdom Come: Deliverance II a direct sequel?
Yes, it is a direct continuation of Henry's story that begins shortly after the events of the first game.
Do I need to play the first game to understand the sequel?
While playing the original is highly recommended to fully appreciate Henry's character arc and the world's lore, the developers have stated that *KCD II* is being designed to be an excellent starting point for new players as well.
Will my save or progress from the first game carry over?
No, *Kingdom Come: Deliverance II* is a standalone title. All players will begin the new adventure fresh to experience the evolved character progression and new story.
What engine is the game being built on?
The game is being developed using the latest version of the CryEngine, promising stunning visuals and a highly detailed, immersive world.