"Kingdom Come Deliverance 2's Storyline Gets a Harsh 1/10 for Realism from Historical Consultant"

Joanna Novak, the historical consultant for Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2, recently provided a detailed look into her contributions to both games in the series. She candidly discussed the intricacies and compromises necessary when blending historical authenticity with engaging gameplay.

Novak pointed out that the narrative of the game, which follows the protagonist Hendrich, diverges significantly from the probable life of a blacksmith's son during that historical period. She emphasized that the story tends more toward the realm of legend and folklore than a factual depiction of history.

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According to Novak, she rates the plot's realism at "1 out of 10." She understands the developers' rationale for this approach, explaining that players are more captivated by epic rags-to-riches narratives where the hero ascends through societal ranks, mingles with historical figures, and attains legendary status—rather than enduring the everyday struggles of a peasant.

Regarding the world-building and environment in Kingdom Come: Deliverance, Warhorse Studios strived for authenticity. However, Novak notes that they couldn't achieve perfection due to constraints such as time, budget, and the need to cater to modern gaming expectations. Certain adjustments were made to ensure that historical accuracy did not compromise the game's fun factor.

Despite these challenges, Novak expresses satisfaction with the inclusion of numerous details that reflect the period accurately. Yet, she cautions against labeling the game as entirely realistic or historically accurate, highlighting the necessary balance between historical truth and player engagement.