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 transform your experience in the game. Actions such as stealing, trespassing, or even roughing up a peasant can land you in serious trouble. Understanding how crime and punishment function in *KCD2* is crucial for navigating its world effectively.

How Crimes Work in Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2

In *KCD2*, any action that disrupts the law-abiding world is considered a crime. The sequel boasts improved AI, making NPCs more vigilant about criminal activity. If you commit a crime, be prepared for consequences, whether caught in the act or tracked 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.

Committing any of these acts can lead to suspicion, arrest, or worse. Guards and villagers react differently based on the severity of the crime.

What Happens When You’re Caught?

If a guard witnesses you engaging in shady activities, you will be reported immediately. Civilians can also report you, leading to an investigation. When caught, you have several options:

1. Pay the Fine

Paying a fine is the simplest way out, though the amount varies with the crime—stealing might cost a few Groschen, but murder could lead to financial ruin or harsher punishment.

2. Talk Your Way Out

If your **Speech** or **Charisma** skills are high, you might persuade guards to let you go, particularly for minor crimes. However, for serious offenses, sweet-talking is much more challenging.

3. Run for It

Running away is risky but sometimes necessary. Guards will pursue you, and escaping will temporarily make you a wanted man. Returning to town later may still result in recognition unless you change your appearance or bribe officials.

4. Accept the Punishment

If you can't pay or escape, you must 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 intentional or accidental, you must be prepared for the repercussions. The punishments in *KCD2* vary based on the crime's severity, ranging from a slap on the wrist to execution. Here are the punishments you might face, each escalating in severity:

1. Pillory (Public Humiliation)

For minor offenses like trespassing or accidental assault, you might find yourself in the pillory for a few in-game days. This will damage your reputation, and NPCs will mock you.

2. Caning (Physical Punishment)

Mid-tier crimes like theft or assault may 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, branding marks your neck, labeling you as a criminal. NPCs will treat you differently, and merchants may refuse to trade with you. Guards will also monitor you closely and might attack if you make suspicious moves.

4. Execution (Game Over)

Execution is the ultimate punishment, usually reserved for the most heinous crimes like multiple murders, leading to a game over scenario.

How Crime Affects Your Reputation

Your reputation in *KCD2* isn't just a number; it directly impacts how NPCs interact with you. Committing crimes can make townsfolk suspicious or hostile.

How Reputation Works

Each town and faction tracks your reputation separately. A low reputation may lead to NPCs refusing to talk, trade, or offer quests, while a high reputation can earn you discounts, extra dialogue, and special opportunities. Guards will search you more often if you're suspected of past crimes. To repair a tarnished reputation, engage in community service, donate to the church, or pay off fines. This system echoes the Honor mechanic in *Red Dead Redemption 2*.

How to Avoid Getting Caught

The crime system in *KCD2* is integral to gameplay, allowing you to strategize your actions within the RPG framework. To avoid getting caught:

• Don’t leave witnesses—always check your surroundings before committing a crime. If someone sees you, change your disguise immediately, perhaps by wearing a hat or different clothes.
• Commit crimes at night, as visibility is low, reducing the chances of being spotted.
• Sell stolen goods wisely. Items marked as stolen in your inventory can get you caught if sold to regular merchants. Instead, take them to fences or black-market dealers far from the crime scene.

Understanding and navigating the crime and punishment system in *Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2* is essential for a rich and immersive gaming experience.