In an unexpected move, Warhorse Studios has announced that it will present a special version of Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2 at the Karlovy Vary International Film Festival, scheduled for July 9, 2025. This presentation is described as a “cinematic version,” although it is not a movie per se, but rather an edition of the game itself that will be showcased as part of the festival’s Special Screenings section.
They seek to give cinematic legitimacy to the game
The CEO of Warhorse, Martin Frývadlský, expressed his enthusiasm for this event, calling it a significant moment to demonstrate that video games can be a serious medium for storytelling. Frývadlský believes that the story of a blacksmith’s son could capture the interest of a cinematic audience, which could transform the perception of narratives in video games.
Despite the enthusiasm surrounding the presentation, uncertainty remains about how the game’s content will be presented. The question arises as to whether this “Cinematic Cut” will simply be a compilation of scenes or if it will include gameplay segments, where attendees could experience part of the narrative while controlling the protagonist, Henry. Some journalists have expressed their curiosity about how interactivity will be maintained, a key element that characterizes the game and that many consider essential for the narrative experience of Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2.
The question of how the gaming experience will translate to a cinematic format remains up in the air. Some critics, while appreciating the story, believe that the best way to enjoy it is through the gameplay itself; getting lost in side missions and making decisions that affect character development are aspects that may not translate well into a static presentation. However, given the growing interest, many are eagerly awaiting to see how this transition from video game to film will be realized in Karlovy Vary.