A Decade of Dedication: Two Actors Reflect on Their Epic Video Game Journey

Two actors, Tom McKay and Luke Dale, have spent nearly a decade immersed in the world of Kingdom Come: Deliverance (KCD) and its sequel. The role-playing game, set in 15th-century Bohemia, boasts an unprecedented script that spans over three million pages. KCD 2, released last week, has already sold one million copies within 48 hours, marking a significant milestone for the franchise. Both actors shared their experiences working on this ambitious project and collaborating with the game's controversial director.

The Making of an Epic Saga

In the heart of Prague, where developer Warhorse Studios is headquartered, Tom McKay and Luke Dale embarked on a unique acting challenge. For nine years, they dedicated themselves to bringing the characters of Henry of Skalitz and Sir Hans Capon to life. The original KCD, launched in 2018, gradually built a passionate fanbase despite mixed initial reviews. The sequel, however, received widespread acclaim and immediate commercial success.

KCD 2 offers players an expansive, open-ended experience, allowing them to explore various storylines and outcomes. This complexity required meticulous attention to detail from both actors, who had to adapt their performances to accommodate numerous branching paths. Tom described it as "one of the most amazing and unusual acting challenges" he had ever encountered. The extensive script demanded hundreds of hours in the studio, with multiple trips to Prague becoming routine.

Secrecy was paramount during the development process. Both actors were bound by non-disclosure agreements for three years, making interactions with fans particularly challenging. Tom humorously recounted how he would tell fans he loved Prague and visited frequently for holidays. Meanwhile, Luke noted that many fans had almost given up hope for a sequel due to the six-year gap between releases. When KCD 2 was finally unveiled, it sparked immense excitement among the community.

The release also reignited debates surrounding the game's creator, Daniel Vávra. Known for his outspoken views on historical accuracy and inclusivity, Vávra faced criticism after the first game for its lack of diversity. However, the sequel introduced a black character and a gay love scene, shifting the discourse. Despite some backlash, both actors believe the complaints represent only a small, unrepresentative minority. They praised Vávra for his "forensic understanding" of the game's vision and emphasized the collaborative effort behind its creation.

Beyond their professional relationship, Tom and Luke developed a strong friendship through their shared experiences. Tom likened it to "putting on a really comfortable pair of clothes," while Luke joked about wearing head-to-toe lycra in the motion capture studio.

From a journalistic perspective, this story highlights the evolving nature of video game development and the dedication required from those involved. It underscores the importance of balancing artistic vision with audience expectations and the complexities of navigating public opinion in an increasingly polarized digital age.