Kingdom Come: Deliverance! A Brutal Yet Beautiful RPG That Plunges You Into Medieval Bohemia
Forget dragons and magic. Kingdom Come: Deliverance throws you headfirst into a gritty, realistic medieval world where the only fantastical element is the sheer scale and depth of its historical accuracy. Developed by Warhorse Studios and released in 2018, this action RPG eschews traditional fantasy tropes for a grounded experience that focuses on swordplay, social interaction, and survival in a tumultuous period of history.
The Plot: A Story Forged in Fire and Iron
Set in the Kingdom of Bohemia in 1403, you take on the role of Henry, the son of a blacksmith. Life takes a devastating turn when your village is attacked by mercenaries, leaving you orphaned and seeking vengeance. Thrust into the chaos of war, Henry must navigate a world torn apart by political intrigue and religious strife.
He’ll encounter a colorful cast of characters, each with their own motivations and agendas. From noble lords to cunning merchants and ruthless bandits, every interaction shapes Henry’s journey and influences his destiny.
The story unfolds through a series of quests that delve into the social and political complexities of the era. You’ll be tasked with everything from delivering messages and recovering stolen goods to participating in tournaments and defending castles against siege. As Henry progresses, he hones his skills as a warrior, learns the nuances of medieval society, and ultimately faces a choice that will determine the fate of Bohemia itself.
Gameplay: Mastering the Art of Medieval Combat
Kingdom Come: Deliverance distinguishes itself from other action RPGs with its complex and realistic combat system. Forget button mashing; success relies on mastering timing, footwork, and the nuances of each weapon type.
| Weapon Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Sword | Versatile for both offense and defense. Different types offer varying reach, speed, and damage. |
| Axe | Powerful but slow, ideal for breaking through armor or dealing devastating blows. |
| Mace | Blunt force weapon capable of crushing bone and disabling opponents. |
| Bow | Long-range option requiring precision and patience. |
Combat is a ballet of dodges, parries, and ripostes. You must read your opponent’s movements, anticipate their attacks, and exploit openings to deliver decisive blows. Dying is frequent, especially in the early game, but each encounter serves as a learning experience. The satisfaction of finally defeating a challenging opponent after countless attempts is unparalleled.
Beyond combat, Kingdom Come: Deliverance offers a wealth of other gameplay elements. You can hone your skills in blacksmithing, alchemy, and even speechcraft.
Interacting with NPCs plays a crucial role in the game. Dialogue choices influence relationships, unlock new quests, and shape Henry’s reputation.
A World Brought to Life
One of Kingdom Come: Deliverance’s greatest strengths lies in its meticulous recreation of 15th-century Bohemia. From the cobblestone streets of towns like Rattay to the sprawling forests and rugged mountains, the world feels alive and believable.
The attention to detail extends to every aspect of the game. Clothing, architecture, weapons, and even food reflect the historical period with remarkable accuracy.
While stunning visually, the world is also unforgiving. Hunger, thirst, and fatigue are constant threats that must be managed. Sleeping, eating, and drinking are essential for survival, adding a layer of realism rarely seen in RPGs.
A Challenging but Rewarding Experience
Kingdom Come: Deliverance is not for the faint of heart. It’s a demanding game that requires patience, persistence, and a willingness to embrace its complexities. However, the rewards are immense.
The sense of accomplishment you feel after overcoming a difficult quest or mastering a new combat technique is deeply satisfying. Moreover, the immersion provided by the game’s world and story is unparalleled.
For those seeking a truly unique RPG experience that breaks away from fantasy conventions, Kingdom Come: Deliverance is a must-play. Prepare to be challenged, amazed, and transported to a time long past.