Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2 can thank the Xbox Series S for its optimized graphics

Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2 is enjoying high player counts and positive reviews. Part of its success is due to the game running smoothly on multiple platforms. Those systems include the Xbox Series S, which forced developer Warhorse Studios to optimize the action RPG's visuals. Speaking on the Iron Lords Podcast, PR manager Tobias Stolz-Zwilling discussed how the Series S helped improve Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2 performance.

Ironically, the game uses CryEngine, which previously had a reputation for stressing lower-end systems. Still, Warhorse Studios co-founder Daniel Vavra criticized alternatives before the Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2 release date. While praised for its versatility, Vavra found that open-world games struggled on Unreal Engine. As it turns out, the developer made the right decision for Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2 and its expansive maps.

On the Xbox Series X and PS5, the Warhorse Studios medieval ROG offers a fidelity mode and performance mode. The fidelity option renders graphics at 30fps and 1440p, while performance mode bumps frame rates to 60fps but at 1080p. Meanwhile, the PS5 Pro maintains 60fps at 1296p, with PSSR upscaling, making the game appear sharper.

Without as much horsepower, the Xbox Series S is limited to a 30fps/1080p setting. However, instead of reducing quality on all systems, the Series S optimizations benefit PCs and more potent consoles. Most PC gamers know that lowering reflection and shadow levels is a quick way to increase frame rates in many games. The CryEngine's slightly less modern lighting has a positive impact on performance. Even so, Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2 maps are colorful and immersive.

Many recent releases suffer from choppy visuals, at least until developers release patches. Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2 players are experiencing smooth gameplay, even on the Xbox Series S and lower-end PCs.