Warhorse Studios stepped into the Reddit AMA arena last week and immediately found itself fielding some sharp community pushback. According to Destructoid, the developer was quickly pressed on reports that it had replaced a human translator with AI, a decision that did not sit well with fans.

The studio didn't dodge the criticism. Warhorse acknowledged the community's concerns directly, stating that "We do not see AI as a substitute for human work." It's a firm-sounding position, though players will likely be watching closely to see how that philosophy holds up in practice going forward.

The AMA also touched on whether Warhorse might be developing a Lord of the Rings title, a rumor that has circulated in certain corners of the gaming internet. The studio addressed the speculation during the session, though given the sensitivity around unannounced projects, don't expect any firm confirmations either way just yet.

For a studio that built its reputation on the deeply human, painstakingly researched world of medieval Bohemia in Kingdom Come: Deliverance and its sequel, the AI controversy feels especially pointed. Fans invested in that franchise tend to value authenticity - whether in historical accuracy or in the craft behind the localization work that makes the game accessible globally.

Warhorse hasn't always had smooth sailing with community relations, but based on Destructoid's reporting, this AMA at least showed the team willing to engage directly with uncomfortable topics rather than issuing a canned PR statement and moving on. That kind of transparency goes a long way with an audience that's increasingly skeptical of studio communications.

Whether you're still riding through Bohemia in KCD2 or just keeping tabs on what Warhorse has cooking next, it's worth noting that the studio seems keenly aware of the expectations sitting on its shoulders heading into whatever comes next.