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 the world's response to your actions. Engaging in activities like stealing, trespassing, or assaulting a peasant can lead to serious repercussions. Here's a comprehensive look at how crime and punishment function in the game.

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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 is considered a crime. The sequel introduces enhanced AI, making NPCs more vigilant and responsive to criminal activities. If you break the law, be prepared for consequences, whether immediate capture or a later manhunt.

The game categorizes the following actions as illegal:

• Murder – Taking the life of an innocent NPC.
• Theft – Stealing from homes, shops, or unconscious NPCs.
• Lockpicking – Breaking into locked buildings or chests.
• Pickpocketing – Stealing directly from individuals.
• Assault – Attacking civilians or guards.
• Animal Cruelty – Harming domestic animals.
• Trespassing – Entering private areas without permission.
• Disrupting Order – Causing trouble in towns.

Committing these acts can lead to suspicion, arrest, or even harsher penalties, with guards and villagers reacting based on the crime's severity.

What Happens When You’re Caught?

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

Paying a fine is the simplest way out, though the cost varies with the crime's severity. Theft might set you back a few Groschen, but murder could lead to financial ruin or worse.

2. Talk Your Way Out

With high **Speech** or **Charisma**, you might persuade guards to release you, especially for minor offenses. However, convincing them after committing serious crimes is much tougher.

3. Run for It

Fleeing isn't ideal, but sometimes it's your only option. Guards will pursue you, and escaping will temporarily make you a wanted man. Changing clothes or bribing officials can help you return to town unnoticed.

4. Accept the Punishment

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

How Punishments Work in Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2

Whether your crime was accidental or intentional, be ready for the consequences. Punishments in *Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2* range from mild to severe, depending on the crime's gravity:

1. Pillory (Public Humiliation)

For minor offenses like trespassing or accidental assault, you'll be locked in the pillory for a few in-game days. This public shaming affects your reputation, with NPCs mocking you.

2. Caning (Physical Punishment)

Mid-tier crimes like theft or assault result in caning, a physical punishment where guards beat you publicly, temporarily reducing your health and stamina.

3. Branding (Permanent Criminal Status)

Serious crimes like murder or repeated offenses lead to branding, marking your neck and labeling you a criminal. This permanent status causes NPCs to treat you with suspicion, and merchants may refuse to trade with you.

4. Execution (Game Over)

The ultimate penalty, execution, ends your game. It's typically reserved for the gravest offenses, like multiple murders.

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

How Crime Affects Your Reputation

Your reputation in *KCD2* isn't just a number; it directly affects 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 can lead to NPCs refusing to engage with you, while a high reputation offers discounts, extra dialogue, and unique opportunities. Guards may search you more frequently if you have a criminal history. To improve your reputation, help the community, 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 strategies to avoid detection:

• Eliminate Witnesses – Always check your surroundings before committing a crime. If seen, quickly change your disguise.
• Commit Crimes at Night – Nighttime reduces the likelihood of being spotted.
• 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 how crime and punishment work in *Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2*. Utilize the system wisely to navigate the game's intricate world.