In a recent statement, CI Games CEO Marek Tyminski announced a shift in direction for the upcoming sequel, Lords of the Fallen 2, indicating that the game will not prioritize a political agenda but will feature “attractive female characters.” This statement, made on social media platform X over the weekend, comes in response to criticisms regarding the game’s character designs and overall direction. As the studio transitions into a more integrated entity under Tyminski’s leadership, he emphasized the importance of real player feedback in shaping the game’s development.
Tyminski clarified the game’s early development struggles, noting that initial decisions were hindered by “political correctness and filtering.” He joined Hexworks, the studio behind Lords of the Fallen 2, in late 2020 and has since taken a more active role as both Head of Studio and CEO. The announcement follows the release of two trailers that aim to convey the game’s new vision, although some critics have suggested that these promotional materials largely consist of CGI content lacking gameplay substance.
Responding to inquiries from fans, Tyminski confirmed, “yes,” when asked if the game would include revealing outfits and armor for female characters. This straightforward approach has drawn mixed reactions from the gaming community, with some praising the commitment to appealing visuals, while others express concern that such focus detracts from the core gameplay experience.
The previous installment, launched in 2023, received a divided response, particularly on Steam, where technical performance issues marred its reception. Despite a unique world-switching mechanic and solid gameplay elements, the game struggled with pacing and coherence. However, CI Games has since turned the tide with numerous patches and a significant 2.0 update released in April 2024. This update introduced a dedicated jump button, streamlined co-op mechanics, and a friend pass system, allowing players to join friends without purchasing the game.
Recently, a 2.5 update further refined gameplay, adding polish and increased difficulty options, helping to improve player perception of the game. This turnaround reflects a strong commitment from CI Games to address early criticisms and enhance player engagement, positioning the studio for future success.
Despite the positive development trajectory, Tyminski’s comments have sparked discussions about the nature of game development in today’s landscape. One player voiced frustration over the studio’s focus on “political extra shit,” advocating for a return to prioritizing gameplay as the primary concern. This sentiment underscores a broader tension in the gaming community regarding the balance between artistic expression and player expectations.
As anticipation builds for Lords of the Fallen 2, the ongoing debates surrounding its design choices illustrate the challenges faced by developers in an increasingly polarized environment. With the studio promising to listen to player feedback while navigating cultural sensitivities, the upcoming title could serve as a litmus test for future projects in the genre. As CI Games moves forward, the balancing act between catering to a diverse audience and delivering a compelling gameplay experience will be critical for the success of Lords of the Fallen 2.
