Warhorse Studios and Deep Silver have released a next-generation update for Kingdom Come: Deliverance on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X/S. The free upgrade for existing owners brings improved visuals and performance to the 2018 medieval RPG. It serves as an enhanced prequel to the recently launched Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2.
The update arrived a year after the release of Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2, offering console players significant technical enhancements developed in collaboration with Saber Interactive. Owners of the PlayStation 4 or Xbox One versions can upgrade at no cost, while new players can purchase the standard edition for £24.99 on PlayStation and Xbox stores. It is also available through Game Pass at no extra charge. The Kingdom Come: Deliverance Saga Bundle, including both games and all DLC, costs £43.99 on PlayStation, compared to £87.99 on Xbox. A physical Royal Edition launches on May 15.
On the latest consoles, the game now supports 4K resolution and a stable 60 frames per second, a marked improvement over the original 30 FPS cap that often caused stuttering. Reviewers note that high-resolution textures enhance environments and character models, with extended draw distances allowing villages to appear on the horizon without pop-in. Lighting in Bohemian forests appears more realistic, and foliage details are sharper, though dense bushes remain challenging to navigate.
Combat benefits most from the higher frame rate, making directional swordplay more responsive. Parrying and Master Strikes feel precise, reducing frustration from input lag in busier fights. Enemy animations are clearer, aiding timing and stamina management. Load times have shortened, smoothing transitions during travel and after deaths.
As a prequel, the game provides backstory for protagonist Henry of Skalitz, depicted as a young blacksmith's son before becoming a warrior in the sequel. Early in the game, Henry expresses his aspirations: “I don’t want to rot in this hole forever. I feel like I don’t belong here. I want to live and see the world.” The narrative arc traces his growth amid historical events in medieval Bohemia, emphasizing the series' emotional depth and role-playing elements.
While not a full remaster, the update modernizes the experience without altering core design, making it more accessible despite some dated interface and voice acting. It encourages replays or first-time plays, especially for the five million fans of Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2.
