(Image credit: Warhorse)
Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2 has impressed fans with its highly immersive NPCs, unveiling a complex feature crafted specifically for just two of the game’s many characters. Within its universe of 550 dynamic figures, only these two NPCs, who possess horses, required the introduction of enhanced pathfinding capabilities.
During a panel at GDC, Matej Marko, an AI programmer at Warhorse Studios, elaborated on a particular facet of NPC AI. He detailed: “There is a part [of the NPC AI behavior trees] that is called Long Distance Move. This, for example, handles longer moves such as from home to a workplace, or to the pub.” What initially seems fairly straightforward quickly evolves into a more intricate system.
Iconic games like Oblivion transformed our perception of NPCs, embedding them with sophisticated routines and desires rather than limiting them to repetitive tasks. Initially, such advancements had to be moderated since too many NPCs would venture out of cities on hunting expeditions, sometimes meeting untimely ends due to their newfound autonomy.
In the case of Kingdom Come: Deliverance, the challenge escalated as the system had to incorporate horse usage, revealing that “if they own a horse, they will use a horse to get to whatever place,” Marko explains. Interestingly, in its scope of hundreds, only two NPCs own horses, emphasizing, “If you want to have this feature, you have to support it.”
This feature exemplifies the duality of video game development—a fascinating addition for enthusiasts but a complex task for producers. Imagine the scenario: a developer proposes, “Wouldn’t it be intriguing if wealthy NPCs traveled on horseback for long distances?” Yet, the daunting reality of coding efforts emerges.
Nevertheless, this inclusion aligns perfectly with medieval themes, where horses were pivotal. Players frequently utilize horses within the game, and in the sequel, you can even dodge branches by looking down to prevent getting knocked off.
For those passionate about such transformative gameplay experiences, explore our curated list of top RPGs available today. While many feature horses, the uniqueness of each keeps players yearning for more adventures.