"Kingdom Come Deliverance 2's Historical Accuracy Rated 1/10 by Consultant"

Joanna Novak, the historical consultant for Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2, has provided valuable insights into her contributions to both games in the series. She candidly discussed the challenges and compromises that come with blending historical authenticity with engaging gameplay.

Novak pointed out that the game’s narrative, centered around the protagonist Hendrich, diverges significantly from the likely experiences of a real blacksmith's son in that historical period.

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She emphasized that the story leans more towards the realm of legend and folklore rather than historical accuracy, rating the plot's realism at a mere "1 out of 10." Novak explained that the developers opted for a more mythic tale to captivate players, who are often more interested in epic rags-to-riches stories involving interactions with historical figures and achieving greatness, rather than depicting the everyday struggles of a peasant.

Regarding the world-building and environment, Warhorse Studios strived for authenticity in Kingdom Come: Deliverance. However, they encountered limitations due to time and budget constraints, as well as the need to cater to modern player expectations. Some historical details were adjusted to ensure that the game remained enjoyable and engaging.

Despite these compromises, Novak is satisfied with the inclusion of numerous period-appropriate elements in the game. Nonetheless, she cautions against labeling the game as realistic or historically accurate, highlighting the balance between historical fidelity and player enjoyment.