Kingdom Come Deliverance 2: Director Addresses ‘Woke’ Backlash, Emphasizes Historical Accuracy

Kingdom Come Deliverance 2: Director Addresses ‘Woke’ Backlash, Emphasizes Historical Accuracy

Kingdom Come Deliverance 2’s director responds to criticism regarding the game’s portrayal of historical events and characters, clarifying the development team’s commitment to historical accuracy over modern sensibilities.

Following the announcement of Kingdom Come Deliverance 2, Warhorse Studios has faced a wave of criticism from some segments of the gaming community, accusing the game of being ‘woke’ and straying from its historical roots. Director Daniel Vávra has now issued a statement addressing these concerns. He emphasizes that the development team remains dedicated to portraying 15th-century Bohemia accurately, even if that means depicting aspects of the era that may be uncomfortable or challenge modern viewpoints.

Vávra acknowledges the criticism, stating that ‘some interpretations of our historical approach have been misconstrued.’ He explains that the team meticulously researches historical records, including primary sources like chronicles and legal documents, to ensure accuracy in the game’s setting, characters, and events. The aim is not to sanitize the past but to present it as it was, warts and all. This commitment extends to complex themes such as religious conflict, social inequality, and the realities of medieval life which may not always align with modern expectations.

The director specifically cites examples of elements in the game that have drawn criticism. One example mentioned involved the portrayal of female characters. Vávra clarifies that while women in 15th-century Bohemia certainly had limited roles in society compared to modern standards, the game aims to represent their lives and contributions accurately, even if they are less prominent than their male counterparts. This, he maintains, is not an attempt at ‘woke’ agenda-setting, but a truthful depiction of historical context.

He further emphasizes the importance of critical thinking and engagement with the game’s historical backdrop. Vávra suggests that players should consider the game not merely as entertainment, but as an opportunity to learn about a significant period of European history. He suggests the team intends for the game to provoke discussion and reflection, encouraging players to form their own informed opinions about the past. The game, he argues, aims to stimulate historical consciousness rather than imposing a particular viewpoint.

Vávra concluded by stating that Warhorse Studios will continue to focus on delivering a historically accurate and engaging sequel to Kingdom Come Deliverance. The team remains committed to its original vision and is unfazed by criticisms that misinterpret their intentions. The game, he stressed, will remain true to its historical underpinnings, even if some find aspects of that history uncomfortable or challenging.

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14 comments

comments user
HistoryBuff1987

Finally, a game developer who understands that historical accuracy shouldn’t be sacrificed for modern sensibilities! I appreciate Vávra’s commitment to portraying 15th-century Bohemia as it was, warts and all. It’s refreshing to see a game that encourages critical thinking and historical learning rather than just mindless entertainment.

Kudos to Warhorse Studios for standing their ground!

comments user
GamerGal64

While I understand the desire for historical accuracy, I’m still concerned about the potential for the game to perpetuate harmful stereotypes. I hope the portrayal of women, even within the historical context, is nuanced and avoids reinforcing limiting narratives.

I’ll be keeping a close eye on this one.

comments user
MedievalMind

I’m thrilled! The first Kingdom Come Deliverance was a masterpiece of historical immersion, and it’s fantastic to hear that the sequel will continue this tradition. The commitment to primary sources and rigorous research is exactly what makes this game stand out. Bring on the historically accurate brutality!

comments user
CriticalGamer92

This sounds like a blatant attempt to avoid criticism by hiding behind the banner of ‘historical accuracy’. Many games depict historical events without facing this level of backlash. I think this is damage control, and I’m not buying it.

They are avoiding a real conversation about representation and responsible game design.

comments user
JohnSmith88

I’m cautiously optimistic. The first game was great, but some aspects felt a little clunky. Hopefully, they’ve improved the gameplay mechanics while maintaining the historical fidelity. I’m excited to see how they handle the potentially sensitive topics mentioned.

comments user
AnyaPetrova

Good on them for sticking to their guns! Too many games shy away from depicting the realities of the past, focusing on sanitized versions that fail to engage with complex historical issues. I appreciate the commitment to historical accuracy, even if it means tackling uncomfortable subjects.

comments user
DarkAgesFan

As a history enthusiast, I’m incredibly excited about this. The attention to detail in the first game was impressive, and this commitment to accuracy in the sequel is fantastic. I can’t wait to explore 15th-century Bohemia once again!

comments user
TheGamingGuru

This response feels defensive. While striving for historical accuracy is commendable, the director’s explanation feels like justification for potentially problematic content. I hope the final product doesn’t fall into the trap of ‘historical realism’ as an excuse for harmful representations.

comments user
SarahPlaysGames

I’m all for historical accuracy, but there’s a difference between accuracy and perpetuating harmful stereotypes. I really hope the developers are aware of this distinction and have taken steps to ensure responsible representation of all characters, especially women.

comments user
RetroGamer77

Sounds amazing! I loved the first game. The level of detail and the historical setting were unparalleled. I’m fully on board with the commitment to accuracy, even if it means confronting uncomfortable truths about the past.

comments user
PixelPusherPro

While I applaud their dedication to historical accuracy, I’m concerned about potential ‘historical inaccuracies’ in their interpretation. History is complex and open to different interpretations. They need to be careful not to present a biased version of the past.

comments user
LadyJaneGrey

It’s refreshing to see a developer prioritising historical accuracy over pandering to modern sensibilities. Too many games sanitize the past, making it dull and unrealistic. I’m excited to see a game that’s willing to engage with the complexities of history, even if it means facing criticism.

comments user
GameCriticMark

The director’s response is a missed opportunity. He could have acknowledged the concerns about representation and outlined specific steps taken to mitigate potential issues. Instead, he doubled down on a potentially problematic approach.

This is a PR failure.

comments user
RPGAddict123

I’m excited for more Kingdom Come! The historical setting and immersive gameplay were fantastic in the first game, and I’m looking forward to seeing what they’ve done with the sequel. Hopefully, they’ve addressed some of the technical issues from the first game as well.