Daniel Vavra, the creative force behind the critically acclaimed Kingdom Come: Deliverance and its sequel, is leaving active game development. Warhorse Studios CEO Martin Fryvaldsky confirmed in an interview with CzechCrunch (via VGC) that Vavra will focus on adapting the franchise for film. He will not continue as creative director on Warhorse’s next game project.

From Game Director to Transmedia Visionary

As co-founder of Warhorse Studios, Vavra shaped the Kingdom Come: Deliverance series, leading both story and design. His guidance helped the series become known for realistic historical settings, immersive storytelling, and detailed role-playing systems. Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2, released in early 2025, followed this legacy and earned strong reviews and substantial sales.

Fryvaldsky explained that Vavra’s departure from daily game development was personal. “Dan himself wanted to move on,” Fryvaldsky said. “He made three games that were a global success and has been wanting to try something different for a long time.”

Leading the Kingdom Come: Deliverance Film

The cinematic project has been in the works for some time. Warhorse already drafted a script and is negotiating with production partners. Vavra will take on a “transmedia director” role, overseeing the franchise as it expands into films, comics, and other media.

While Vavra will not work in the office every day, he will continue guiding the franchise as a creative leader and ambassador. Meanwhile, Warhorse’s development team will continue current game projects without him at the helm.

A Storied Career in Gaming

Before co-founding Warhorse in 2011, Vavra worked on the Mafia series at Illusion Softworks, serving as lead writer for Mafia and Mafia 2. His focus on historical authenticity and immersive storytelling set the stage for his success with Kingdom Come: Deliverance.

Vavra’s move to film has sparked mixed reactions from fans. Some worry that future games may suffer without his guidance. Others are skeptical about turning video games into live-action movies. Still, many hope his talent for compelling narratives will translate well to cinema.

With Vavra now steering the cinematic adaptation, fans have more to anticipate beyond Warhorse’s next game release. His shift marks an exciting new chapter for the franchise and opens the door to new storytelling possibilities.

You can catch future updates on the studio by checking out their official X account.