When developing Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2 for the Xbox Series S, the process ended up benefiting other platforms in unexpected ways, as shared by Warhorse Studios’ PR manager.
In a conversation on the Iron Lords Podcast, Tobias Stolz-Zwilling, the PR manager at Warhorse Studios, mentioned that the optimizations for the Xbox Series S had far-reaching advantages. He explained, “By trimming certain aspects and using innovative programming approaches, the gains were not just limited to one platform—they extended to all versions.”
Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2 utilizes a customized version of Crytek’s CryEngine, enhanced by Warhorse Studios with unique technology to manage its expansive medieval open world filled with simulation elements.
On the Xbox Series S, the game operates at a steady 30 FPS, while the Xbox Series X and PlayStation 5 offer both 30 FPS quality and 60 FPS performance modes. The PlayStation 5 Pro includes some extra adjustments for an even smoother experience.
### Xbox Series S Presents Both Hurdles and Advantages
Since the Xbox Series S hit the market, developers have had varying opinions. While some find the lower power a bit limiting, others see it as an opportunity to innovate and provide diverse visual modes.
A case in point is Larian Studios, who launched Baldur’s Gate 3 on the Xbox Series S in December 2023, initially minus the split-screen feature. However, over time, ongoing optimizations made it possible to introduce this feature in the upcoming Patch 8, which is open for testing right now.
Warhorse Studios isn’t unique in leveraging the Xbox Series S constraints to enhance overall game development. GSC Game World, the team behind STALKER 2: Heart of Chornobyl, spoke about how they managed to “optimize every scrap of system content,” which ultimately improved the PC version’s performance.
Although I haven’t had the chance to dive into Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2 yet, several of my colleagues are thoroughly enjoying it. Contributor Brendan Lowry praised the game in his review, highlighting its “immersive world, diverse quests, engaging combat, compelling storyline, and superb presentation—all the elements a Kingdom Come fan could wish for.”
You can experience Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2 now on Xbox Series X|S, Windows PC, and PlayStation 5.
