Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2: Console and PC Performance Deep Dive

Warhorse Studios' highly anticipated sequel, Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2 (KCD2), promises impressive performance across all platforms. Recent tests reveal smooth gameplay on both PlayStation and Xbox consoles, with options catering to different performance preferences. Let's delve into the specifics of KCD2's performance across various platforms and settings.

CryEngine's Photorealistic Prowess

KCD2 leverages the CryEngine, known for its performance-oriented approach. While employing older rendering techniques with limited shaders and basic lighting, the engine excels in delivering photorealistic visuals. This is achieved through the use of physically based materials and CryEngine's Sparse Voxel Octree Global Illumination (SVOGI), which realistically simulates indirect lighting, enhancing the visual fidelity of elements like torchlight and metallic reflections. The decision to retain CryEngine stems from the developer's familiarity, enabling them to build upon existing expertise and refine features for the sequel.

Console Performance Modes

PS5 and Xbox Series X offer two modes: a Fidelity mode (30fps at 1440p) prioritizing visual detail and a Performance mode (60fps at 1080p) prioritizing frame rate. Xbox Series S exclusively supports Fidelity mode. The PS5 Pro provides a single, high-performance option running at 60fps at 1296p with upscaling to 4K. Fidelity mode enhances visual elements like foliage and shadows, while the PS5 Pro further refines these aspects, adding sharper visuals and improved ambient occlusion.

PC Scalability and Upscaling

PC players enjoy full control over KCD2's settings, with upscaling options limited to FSR and DLSS. While CryEngine's focus on performance is evident, achieving high resolutions and maximum settings at 4K will still demand significant GPU power. To address this, the game offers five quality presets (Low, Medium, High, Ultra, Experimental), allowing players to optimize the experience based on their hardware capabilities. A comprehensive system readiness guide is available to assist players in configuring their PCs for optimal gameplay.

Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2 launches February 4, 2025, on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC. Visit our Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2 page for further details.