The Gothic Remake Podcast Episode 02 is the only time when the lead game designer, Javi Untoria, addresses the issue behind the missing feature of helmets and shields

  
The motivations explained are quite ridiculous, It is clearly evident that this statement was made by someone who knows nothing about medieval equipment. There has been no in-depth research—as is often the case with many video games, TV series, or films that pass themselves off as "medieval." The fantasy element may certainly allow for some creative liberties, but not to the point of the sheer absurdity and ignorance of the subject matter displayed in the podcast



What exactly is a "combat direct and visceral"...? What do you mean with this, dear Javi Untoria...? Have you ever tried fighting in armor yourself? Try doing it without a helmet, and then we'll talk... If you mean that the combat is violent, well, then I can guarantee that your best friends in this case are a good helmet and a sturdy shield. The exact opposite of what you claim

  
"We didn't like the defence system that will make it more static". Presumably you are referring to the shields in this case or so I would hope. Well, if the defense system within the combat mechanics you developed sucks, that’s a problem for you as developers. All I see here is a lack of skill on the developers' part. If the combat becomes static, you work on it to ensure that doesn't happen. You certainly don't use such bullshit as an excuse not to include shields or helmets

  
Dear Javi Untoria, in the original Gothic 1, helmets and shields weren't included due to a lack of time and budget, as well as technical limitations of the era. It was 2001 not 2026! Yet, you try to pass this off as a "design choice" or an attempt to stay "faithful to the original". Your design choices are obsolete and make absolutely no sense

Gothic Remake: Alkimia Developers' absurd motivations for not adding Helmets and Shields