10 Pro Tips to Thrive in Medieval Bohemia: Kingdom Come Deliverance Survival Guide

Introduction

Kingdom Come: Deliverance is a brutally realistic RPG set in 15th-century Bohemia. Unlike other games, you start as a blacksmith's son with no combat experience. The world doesn't care about your level—it punishes every mistake. Whether you're struggling with combat, saving your game, or understanding the economy, these 10 pro tips will help you survive and thrive.

1. Master the Art of Saving

You can't save anywhere anytime—only at beds or by drinking Saviour Schnapps. Always carry a few bottles, but don't waste them. Rely on beds in inns or safehouses. Save before risky encounters or quests. Buy the recipe for Saviour Schnapps early to craft your own.

2. Train with Captain Bernard

After the prologue, head to Rattay and train with Captain Bernard. He teaches you master strikes, combos, and ripostes. Practice until you can parry consistently. Combat is all about timing—don't spam attacks. Use feints and dodges. Train with wooden weapons first to avoid injuries.

3. Keep Your Gear in Top Shape

Armor and weapons degrade with use. Visit armorers and blacksmiths to repair them, or use repair kits yourself (requires skill). Broken gear drastically reduces protection and damage. Also, maintain your clothes—being dirty lowers charisma. Wash in troughs or pay for a bath.

4. Eat Regularly, But Wisely

Hunger depletes stamina and health. Always carry dried food (doesn't spoil). Cook raw meat on campfires. Avoid spoiled food—it causes food poisoning. Eat only when hungry; overeating makes you slower. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner matter in this game.

5. Learn to Read

Reading unlocks ability to read skill books, quest texts, and recipes. Find the scribe in Uzhitz and pay him to teach you. Then, buy skill books to level up faster. Reading also reveals map locations and quest clues.

6. Choose Your Fights Wisely

You're not a hero. Early on, avoid groups of bandits or heavily armored foes. Use stealth and ranged weapons. Run away if needed—horses are fast. Even later, a group of three can overwhelm you. Pick off enemies one by one with a bow or stealth takedowns.

7. Invest in Horse and Saddle

A horse is your best friend. Save up for a decent horse (you get Pebbles for free, but it's slow). Upgrade saddlebags to increase carry capacity. Use the horse to haul loot and escape danger. Remember to feed and brush your horse to keep its stamina high.

8. Alchemy is Overpowered

Alchemy lets you brew potions that restore health, energy, and save your life. Learn the recipe for Saviour Schnapps, Lazarus Potion (heals over time), and Buck's Blood (stamina boost). Gather herbs and brew in bulk at alchemy benches. Leveling alchemy also gives perks like auto-brewing.

9. Use Charisma and Speech

Not every problem needs a sword. High charisma and speech allow you to talk your way out of fights, negotiate better prices, and persuade NPCs. Wear clean, fancy clothes when charming people. Keep a separate outfit for social encounters.

10. Explore and Do Side Quests

Main quests are tough. Level up by doing side quests, hunting, and exploring. Discover new locations, bandit camps, and treasure. Play dice (Farkle) for extra groschen. Rummage through nests and chests. Every skill point matters in the early game.

Kingdom Come: Deliverance rewards patience and preparation. By following these tips, you'll survive the brutal medieval world and become the knight you were meant to be. Henry has come to see us!