Crime and Punishment Mechanics in Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2 Revealed

In *Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2*, crime isn't just a minor inconvenience—it can significantly alter your interactions within the game world. Whether you're stealing, trespassing, or engaging in physical altercations, the consequences of your actions can be severe. Let's delve into how crime and punishment function in this immersive RPG.

Related: All Pre-Order Bonuses & Editions for Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2

How Crimes Work in Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2

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In KCD2, any action that disrupts the law-abiding world is classified as a crime. With improved AI, NPCs are now more vigilant and aware of criminal activities. Committing a crime will lead to consequences, whether you're caught in the act or hunted down later. The game recognizes the following actions as illegal:

• Murder – Killing innocent NPCs.
• Theft – Stealing from homes, shops, or unconscious NPCs.
• Lockpicking – Breaking into locked buildings or chests.
• Pickpocketing – Stealing directly from people.
• Assault – Attacking civilians or guards.
• Animal Cruelty – Hurting domestic animals.
• Trespassing – Entering private areas without permission.
• Disrupting Order – Causing trouble in towns.

The severity of your crime influences how guards and villagers react to you, potentially leading to suspicion, arrest, or worse.

What Happens When You’re Caught?

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If a guard witnesses your misdeed, you'll be reported on the spot. Civilians can also report you, triggering an investigation. When caught, you face several options:

1. Pay the Fine

The simplest solution is to pay a fine, the amount of which depends on the crime. Theft might cost you a few Groschen, but murder could lead to bankruptcy or harsher punishment.

2. Talk Your Way Out

With high Speech or Charisma skills, you might persuade guards to let you go, especially for minor offenses. Serious crimes, however, are much harder to talk your way out of.

3. Run for It

While not ideal, running away is sometimes your only option. Guards will pursue you, and escaping will make you a wanted man temporarily. If you return to town later, you might still be recognized unless you change your appearance or bribe officials.

4. Accept the Punishment

If you can't pay or escape, you must face the consequences, which vary based on the severity of your crime.

How Punishments Work in Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2

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Be prepared for the consequences of your actions, whether they were intentional or accidental. Punishments in KCD2 range from minor to severe, depending on your crime.

1. Pillory (Public Humiliation)

For minor offenses like trespassing or accidental assault, you'll be placed in the pillory for a few in-game days. This affects your reputation, and NPCs will mock you.

2. Caning (Physical Punishment)

Mid-tier crimes such as theft or assault result in caning, a public beating that temporarily reduces your health and stamina.

3. Branding (Permanent Criminal Status)

Reserved for repeat offenders or serious crimes like murder or significant theft, branding marks you as a criminal. NPCs will treat you differently, merchants may refuse to trade with you, and guards will watch you closely, potentially attacking if you act suspiciously.

4. Execution (Game Over)

The ultimate punishment, execution, is reserved for the gravest offenses, such as multiple murders, and results in a game over.

Related: How to Get the Best Ending in Kingdom Come Deliverance 2

How Crime Affects Your Reputation

Your reputation in KCD2 is more than just a number; it influences how NPCs interact with you. Committing crimes can make townsfolk suspicious or even hostile.

How Reputation Works

Each town and faction tracks your reputation independently. A low reputation can lead to NPCs refusing to talk, trade, or offer quests, while a high reputation can grant discounts, extra dialogue, and special opportunities. Guards may search you more frequently if you have a history of crime. To improve a tarnished reputation, you can perform community service, donate to the church, or pay off fines, similar to the Honor system in Red Dead Redemption 2.

How to Avoid Getting Caught

While crime is part of the KCD2 experience, getting caught can be detrimental. Here are some tips to avoid detection:

• Eliminate Witnesses – Always check your surroundings before committing a crime. If someone sees you, quickly change your disguise, perhaps by donning a hat or different clothes.
• Commit Crimes at Night – Nighttime is ideal for criminal activities as visibility is low, making it harder for others to spot you.
• Sell Stolen Goods Wisely – Stolen items are marked in your inventory. Avoid selling them to regular merchants; instead, find fences or black-market dealers far from the crime scene.

That’s a comprehensive look at how crime and punishment work in Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2.