Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2 Boasts Impressive Performance on Consoles
Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2 (KCD2) promises strong performance across PlayStation, Xbox, and PC platforms, showcasing impressive adaptability across various settings. This article delves into KCD2's performance characteristics on different systems and configuration options.
KCD2's Cross-Platform Performance: A CryEngine Triumph
Multiple sources report positive performance results for KCD2. PlayStation and Xbox consoles deliver smooth gameplay at both 30fps and 60fps, with the PS5 Pro leveraging its capabilities for enhanced visuals. The game's photorealistic rendering, a standout feature achieved using CryTek's CryEngine, sets it apart from many contemporaries.
Warhorse Studios' continued use of CryEngine, also employed in the predecessor, Kingdom Come: Deliverance 1 (KCD1), allows for familiarity and optimized feature development. PC Gamer highlights CryEngine's unique approach: prioritizing performance through old-school rendering techniques (simpler shaders and lighting).
Despite this approach, KCD2 achieves photorealism through physically based materials. Eurogamer notes the effective use of CryEngine's sparse voxel octree global illumination (SVOGI), realistically simulating indirect light bounces and enhancing lighting effects.
Console Performance Modes: Fidelity vs. Performance
PS5 and Xbox Series X offer two modes: a 30fps fidelity mode at 1440p and a 60fps performance mode at 1080p. Xbox Series S exclusively supports the fidelity mode. Conversely, the PS5 Pro runs at a native 60fps at 1296p, upscaling to 4K via PSSR.
Fidelity mode enhances visuals on PS5 and Xbox Series X with increased foliage detail and improved shadow casting. The PS5 Pro further refines this, boasting sharper visuals, superior ambient occlusion, enhanced object detail, and overall improved image quality.
PC: Customizable Upscaling and Extensive Settings
True to PC tradition, KCD2 provides extensive customization. Upscaling is optional, with FSR and DLSS available. However, XeSS, sharpening options, and frame generation are absent.
While CryEngine's performance focus is evident, high-end settings at 4K will still demand significant GPU power. Fortunately, the game offers five quality presets (Low, Medium, High, Ultra, and Experimental) for optimal PC configuration.
KCD2 includes a comprehensive system readiness guide, assisting players in verifying system specifications (CPU, RAM, GPU, Storage) and preparing 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 more details.
