In the highly anticipated upcoming DLC for Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2, titled Legacy of the Forge, players are finally given the chance to rebuild the family forge and become a master blacksmith. This is a monumental moment for the protagonist, Henry, as it brings his journey full circle, from a humble blacksmith’s son to a skilled artisan in his own right. However, for a game that prides itself on realism and a living, breathing economy, simply throwing money at a rebuilding project would be a jarring break in immersion. To address this, developer Warhorse Studios has introduced a new and innovative currency system: “Prestige.” This system is the heart and soul of the Legacy of the Forge DLC, ensuring that Henry’s rise through the blacksmithing guild is earned, not bought. It’s a brilliantly designed mechanic that ties directly into the game’s core philosophy and makes the DLC a meaningful addition to the player’s journey.

This article will delve into the details of the Prestige system, explaining what it is, how it works, and why it is a game-changer for Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2. We will break down how Henry can earn Prestige, what it unlocks, and how it prevents players from simply bypassing the DLC’s content with a large stack of Groschen. The new system is a clear indication of Warhorse’s commitment to creating a deep, immersive RPG experience that rewards dedicated gameplay over quick fixes.

What Is the Prestige System?

The “Prestige” system is a new stat and currency exclusive to the Legacy of the Forge DLC. Unlike money, which can be acquired through various means throughout the game, Prestige is earned specifically through activities related to Henry’s new role as a blacksmith. Its primary purpose is to gate content and upgrades for the forge and his personal quarters. While money is still required for the actual construction and purchase of materials, you cannot unlock the best upgrades and features without first reaching a certain Prestige level. This design choice is a brilliant move that prevents veteran players with hundreds of thousands of Groschen from completing the DLC in a single sitting.

The system is designed to simulate Henry’s rising reputation and influence within the blacksmithing guild and the wider community of Kuttenberg. As he proves his skill and dedication, he gains the respect and trust of the people, which in turn grants him access to better opportunities, better tools, and a more renowned forge. The system makes Henry’s journey from a newcomer to a master blacksmith feel earned and meaningful, rather than just a financial transaction.

How to Earn Prestige

Earning Prestige is tied directly to the core activities of the DLC. Here’s a breakdown of the primary ways Henry can increase his standing in the blacksmithing world:

  • Completing Guild Quests: The primary way to earn Prestige is by completing quests for the blacksmithing guild. These quests are not just limited to forging and crafting; they also include unique narrative missions that tie into the game’s story and characters, as well as daily rotational tasks that can be repeated for a steady stream of Prestige.
  • Blacksmithing Activities: While only two blacksmithing tasks are mandatory for the main quest, players who enjoy the mini-game can continue to craft and sell items. Fulfilling specific orders and creating high-quality, unique weapons will earn Henry a significant amount of Prestige and coin.
  • Restoring the Forge: As Henry invests his money and time into restoring his forge, he will naturally gain Prestige. Each upgrade, from fixing the workshop to adding a new stable, contributes to his overall standing in the community, as the people of Kuttenberg see his dedication to the craft.

The system is designed to be a slow and rewarding grind, ensuring that players will have to spend a considerable amount of time engaging with the new content to see all that the DLC has to offer. This also encourages players who have already completed the main game to return and engage with the new, repeatable activities, extending the game’s longevity.

What Prestige Unlocks

Prestige isn’t just a number; it’s a key that unlocks a wealth of new content and features. As Henry’s Prestige level increases, he will gain access to a variety of new opportunities and perks. Some of the notable rewards include:

  • New Blacksmithing Blueprints: High-level Prestige unlocks unique blueprints for new weapons and armor that only Henry can craft in his forge. These are not just aesthetic; they are some of the most powerful and unique items in the game.
  • Forge Customization: The DLC boasts an impressive home customization system with over 100 million combinations, and many of the best visual and functional upgrades are locked behind a Prestige requirement. This includes new workshops, decorative items, and even quarters for new people, including an armorsmith who can forge new items from Henry’s blueprints.
  • New Perks and Abilities: As Henry’s standing grows, he will also gain access to new quality-of-life features. For example, at a certain Prestige level, he can unlock a chest outside his house that allows him to sell items overnight without having to visit a merchant. He can also unlock new abilities or an animal companion, such as a raven, which will assist him in his adventures.

The Prestige system is a masterful addition to the game’s RPG mechanics. It takes a simple concept—rebuilding a forge—and turns it into a deep, rewarding progression system that is a perfect fit for the game’s realistic and immersive world. It ensures that Legacy of the Forge is not just another quest line but a true expansion of Henry’s life and a powerful new chapter in his story.