Joanna Novak, the historical consultant for Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2, provided an in-depth look into her contributions to both games in the series, shedding light on the challenges and compromises inherent in their development. She pointed out that the game's narrative, which revolves around the protagonist Hendrich, strays significantly from the likely experiences of a real blacksmith's son in that period.
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Novak explained that the storyline leans heavily into the realm of legend and folklore, rather than adhering strictly to historical truth. She humorously rates the plot's realism at a "1 out of 10," understanding the rationale behind the developers' creative decisions. The appeal lies in the classic rags-to-riches arc, where players can live out fantasies of rising through societal ranks, mingling with historical figures, and achieving legendary status—far removed from the everyday life of a medieval peasant.
In terms of world-building and environmental design, Warhorse Studios strived for authenticity in Kingdom Come: Deliverance, but Novak acknowledges that they couldn't achieve perfection due to constraints like time, budget, and the need to cater to modern gaming expectations. Some historical details were adjusted to enhance player enjoyment without compromising too much on the game's immersive quality.
Despite these adjustments, Novak is satisfied with the incorporation of numerous period-specific elements. However, she cautions against labeling the game as realistic or historically accurate, emphasizing the balance between entertainment and educational value.
