Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2 Poised to Usurp Baldur’s Gate 3 with Record-Breaking Script

In the world of role-playing games (RPGs), narrative depth and immersive storytelling are often the key elements that distinguish a good game from a great one. For years, Baldur’s Gate 3 has held the crown for the video game with the longest script, boasting an impressive 2 million words. However, this record is set to be shattered by the upcoming Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2, developed by Warhorse Studios. Scheduled for release in February 2025, the sequel’s script is already confirmed to be a staggering 2.2 million words long, making it potentially the longest script in gaming history.

The original Kingdom Come: Deliverance, released in 2018, was celebrated for its historical accuracy, detailed world-building, and realistic combat mechanics. Set in medieval Bohemia, the game follows the story of Henry, a blacksmith’s son, as he seeks revenge for his family’s murder. The game’s dedication to realism extended to its combat system, which required players to master medieval weaponry and techniques. The game also featured survival elements and weapon crafting, adding layers of complexity to the gameplay. Given the success of the first installment, expectations for the sequel are sky-high.

Dan Vávra, the co-founder and creative director of Warhorse Studios, recently shared the monumental word count of the game’s script on Twitter. To put this into perspective, the 2.2 million words translate to approximately 11,000 screenwriting pages. This is equivalent to the combined length of 100 typical two-hour movie scripts or 25 average novels. Such an extensive script promises a rich and immersive experience for players, filled with intricate storylines, character development, and world-building details that will keep them engaged for hours on end.

The game’s sheer size and scope are further underscored by its ambitious gameplay duration. Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2 is expected to offer between 80 to 100 hours of gameplay, including side quests. This makes it roughly twice as large as its predecessor. Players can look forward to exploring a much larger world, complete with new skills, mini-games like blacksmithing, and even gunpowder weapons. The sequel will also feature bigger stages and more complex challenges, ensuring that both new and returning players will find plenty to engage with.

One of the most significant aspects of Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2 is its approach to character progression and storytelling. The game picks up where the first installment left off, with Henry now involved in larger political and social affairs alongside nobles. The developers have ensured that new players won’t feel left out, as the game will slowly reveal necessary information throughout the gameplay. Henry’s stats will also evolve to reflect the new challenges he faces, adding another layer of realism to the character’s journey.

The delay in the game’s release from 2024 to February 11, 2025, while disappointing for some fans, is seen as a positive move by many. This additional time allows Warhorse Studios to perfect the game and its massive script, ensuring a polished and refined final product. The studio’s commitment to quality is evident in their meticulous attention to detail, as showcased during a recent press event in Kutná Hora, the real-life inspiration for the game’s city of Kuttenberg. Journalists had the opportunity to play a four-hour demo and explore the intricately designed city, which features a mix of bustling markets, bureaucratic offices, and less glamorous elements like horse droppings and rats.

The combat system in Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2 remains one of its standout features. The game’s complexity requires players to learn and train in various medieval combat techniques to succeed. During the demo, players were challenged to a duel due to their character’s title from the previous game. The combat offers different weapon options and stances, providing a deep and engaging experience. Players also have the option to use stealth to complete quests, avoiding unnecessary conflict and adding another layer of strategy to the gameplay.

Warhorse Studios has significantly increased the amount of ambient dialogue and brief exchanges in the game, similar to the interactions found in Red Dead Redemption 2. This enhancement aims to prevent players from hearing the same sentences repeatedly, a common issue in many RPGs. The increase in dialogue not only enriches the game’s narrative but also contributes to a more immersive and realistic world. Players can expect to encounter a diverse cast of characters, each with their own unique stories and interactions.

The development of Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2 has been a massive undertaking for Warhorse Studios. Since the release of the first game, the studio has grown from 90 to 250 employees, allowing them to take on more ambitious projects. The success of the original game has also enabled the developers to conduct extensive historical research, gaining access to exclusive archives to ensure the game’s accuracy. This dedication to authenticity has even impressed present-day politicians in Kutná Hora, who were startled by the game’s detailed depiction of their city.

The game’s narrative depth is further enhanced by its cultural significance in the Czech Republic. Kingdom Come: Deliverance has become more than just a video game; it is a cultural phenomenon that resonates deeply with its audience. The sequel aims to build on this legacy by offering a more expansive and immersive experience. Fans of the original game, as well as newcomers, have much to look forward to in this highly anticipated release.

As the release date approaches, the excitement surrounding Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2 continues to build. The game’s reveal trailer and in-depth showcases have generated significant buzz in the gaming community. Even before its release, the game is breaking records and surpassing the success of other highly acclaimed titles like Baldur’s Gate 3. The promise of new mechanics, quests, and additions ensures that players will have plenty to explore and enjoy in this massive RPG.

In conclusion, Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2 is poised to set a new benchmark in the world of RPGs with its record-breaking script and expansive gameplay. The game’s dedication to historical accuracy, immersive storytelling, and complex combat mechanics make it a highly anticipated release. While the delay in its release may be disappointing for some, it ultimately allows Warhorse Studios to deliver a more polished and refined product. As fans eagerly await the game’s launch in February 2025, one thing is certain: Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2 is set to redefine what it means to create a truly epic and immersive RPG experience.