Crime and Punishment Mechanics in Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2 Revealed

In *Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2*, crime isn't just a minor inconvenience—it can completely change how the world reacts to you. Actions like stealing, trespassing, or even roughing up a peasant can land you in serious trouble. Here's a comprehensive look at how crime and punishment work in this immersive RPG.

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How Crimes Work in Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2

In the meticulously crafted world of *KCD2*, any action that disrupts the law-abiding society is considered a crime. The sequel boasts improved AI, making NPCs more vigilant and responsive to criminal activities. Whether you're caught in the act or tracked down later, expect consequences for your actions.

The game categorizes 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.

Committing any of these acts can lead to suspicion, arrest, or worse. The reactions of guards and villagers vary based on the severity of the crime.

What Happens When You’re Caught?

If a guard witnesses your shady behavior, you'll be reported immediately. Civilians can also report you, triggering an investigation. When caught, you have several options to navigate the situation:

1. Pay the Fine

The simplest way out is to pay a fine. The amount varies depending on the crime—stealing might cost you a few Groschen, but murder could bankrupt you or lead to harsher punishment.

2. Talk Your Way Out

If your **Speech** or **Charisma** skills are high, you might persuade guards to let you go. This tactic works best for minor crimes, but for serious offenses, it's much harder to sweet-talk your way out.

3. Run for It

Running isn't the best option, but sometimes it's your only choice. Guards will chase you, and escaping will temporarily make you a wanted man. If you leave town and return later, people may still recognize you unless you change your clothes or bribe officials.

4. Accept the Punishment

If you can't pay and can't escape, you'll have to face the consequences. The severity of your punishment depends on the nature of your crime.

How Punishments Work in Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2

Whether your crime was a mistake or intentional, be prepared to face the consequences. Punishments vary based on the severity of your actions, ranging from a slap on the wrist to execution. Here are the punishments you can expect in *Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2*, each escalating in severity:

1. Pillory (Public Humiliation)

For minor offenses like trespassing, reckless driving, or accidental assault, you'll be locked in the pillory. The sentence typically lasts a few in-game days, damaging your reputation as NPCs mock you.

2. Caning (Physical Punishment)

Mid-tier crimes like assault and theft result in caning. This physical punishment involves public beating, reducing your health and stamina for a period.

3. Branding (Permanent Criminal Status)

Reserved for repeat offenders or serious crimes like murder or heavy theft, branding marks your neck with a criminal symbol. This permanent status affects how NPCs treat you, with merchants refusing to trade and guards keeping a close watch, ready to attack if you make suspicious moves.

4. Execution (Game Over)

As the name implies, execution means game over. This severe punishment is typically reserved for the most heinous crimes, such as multiple murders.

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How Crime Affects Your Reputation

Your reputation in *KCD2* isn't just a number—it directly influences how people interact with you. Committing crimes can make townsfolk suspicious or outright hostile.

How Reputation Works

Each town and faction tracks your reputation independently. A drop in reputation can lead to people refusing to talk, trade, or offer quests. Conversely, a rise in reputation can earn you discounts, extra dialogue, and special opportunities. Guards will search you more often if they suspect you of past crimes. To repair a tarnished reputation, you'll need to help the community through favors, church donations, and paying off fines. This system is somewhat similar to the Honor system in *Red Dead Redemption 2*.

How to Avoid Getting Caught

The crime system is an integral part of *KCD2*, and you can use it to your advantage. While committing crimes isn't morally right, this is an RPG where you have the freedom to choose your actions. However, if you're not careful, you can easily get caught. Here are some tips to avoid detection:

• Don’t leave witnesses—always check your surroundings before committing a crime. If someone sees you, change your disguise immediately, perhaps by putting on a hat or changing clothes.
• Commit crimes at night—nighttime is ideal for criminal activities, as it's harder for others to spot you.
• Sell stolen goods wisely—stolen items are marked in your inventory. Avoid selling them to regular merchants, as this can lead to your capture. Instead, take them to fences or black-market dealers far from the crime scene.

That’s how crime and punishment work in *Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2*. By understanding these mechanics, you can navigate the game's world more effectively, whether you choose to uphold the law or embrace a life of crime.