In the world of Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2, the beloved character Mutt, the loyal dog companion, wasn't brought to life through the expected method of motion capture with a real dog. Instead, the developers opted for an innovative approach by employing a human actor to mimic Mutt's movements. This unique decision was made particularly for scenes that required interactions between Mutt and other characters, proving to be a more practical solution than coordinating with a live animal.
A behind-the-scenes video released by the development team offers a fascinating glimpse into this process. It showcases how a human performer was used to represent Mutt during pivotal moments. This technique allowed actors portraying human characters to better understand the positioning of the virtual dog, facilitating more natural and believable interactions, even in the absence of an actual canine on set.
Although the developers have kept under wraps the identity of the actor who portrayed Mutt, as well as the frequency of their barking imitations during filming, their role underscores the ingenuity and flexibility inherent in game development. Courage, it seems, manifests in various forms, including that of a four-legged friend brought to life by a dedicated two-legged performer. This unsung hero's contribution has been pivotal in animating Mutt's character.
Thanks to this collaborative effort, the human actors were able to simulate the presence of the digital dog, achieving a seamless and convincing interplay. Yet, the details regarding the identity of the actor who embodied Mutt remain a mystery, leaving fans eager to learn more about the extent of their involvement in this creative endeavor.