Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2 offers an intense narrative centered around the conflict between two monarchs. Players take on the character of Henry, a once humble blacksmith’s offspring who has risen to become a noble’s page and devoted protector. Upon reaching Kuttenberg, Henry becomes embroiled in the fray of the warring factions.
One of the key non-playable characters in Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2 is Matthew the Collector, who is crucial to a main quest known as The Devil’s Pack. Players may find themselves at a crossroads where they can decide to eliminate him. This guide will cover Matthew’s role in the story and the ramifications of this choice to help players make informed decisions.
Should You Eliminate Matthew the Collector in Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2?
Alongside a motley crew of bandits, Henry embarks on a quest to recruit men to support their cause, initiating with the followers of the Dry Devils. During the quest, The Devil’s Pack, Henry volunteers to track down each member.
Matthew the Collector is one of the elusive characters players will encounter in Kuttenberg. He has formed a new gang and extorts travelers for «taxes.» Players can easily locate him at his usual spot along the road to the east of Suchdol.
Players may encounter Matthew the Collector while fast-traveling, affording them the chance to challenge him.
When players engage with Matthew the Collector, they will discover he has no interest in rejoining his former group. Although he is initially non-hostile, he insists that Henry pay him 1000 Groschen as a tax. Players have the option to refuse payment or persuade him to waive it through two persuasion skill checks:
- MEDIUM The Devil will have his revenge? (Speech)
- HARD I’m not giving you anything! (Intimidation)
Should players refuse or fail these checks, Matthew and his gang will attack. This dilemma forces players to either kill or subdue him, as he is actively trying to harm them. A group of about five others will also be looking to do the same. Notably, there are no negative consequences for taking Matthew’s life; players will still complete the quest objective, and the Dry Devil reacts indifferently upon Henry’s return.
Strategies for Facing Matthew the Collector in KCD2
Engaging Matthew the Collector and his gang can be a challenging encounter, so here are some valuable tips for players to increase their chances of survival:
- Bring Mutt With You: Ensure that Henry’s loyal dog, Mutt, is present. His assistance can be critical, providing distractions and engaging enemies, which can tilt the odds in Henry’s favor.
- Maintain Your Gear: Prior to the confrontation, ensure that all weapons and armor are repaired. Having well-maintained equipment can significantly impact performance during the fight.
- Stay Agile: Keep Henry’s horse nearby for a potential retreat if the battle turns unfavorable. A timely escape can be crucial when facing overwhelming odds.
- Utilize the Environment: Luring enemies into confined spaces can reduce their numbers, or finding cover can help break the line of sight and provide opportunities to recover.
Ultimately, whether players choose to kill or spare Matthew the Collector does not alter their quest outcome, as long as they engage with him. Players who defeat him can also loot his body for the Rare Book from Sedletz.
