In *Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2*, crime isn't just a minor hiccup—it can drastically alter your journey through the game. From petty theft to heinous murder, your actions have consequences that ripple through the world around you. Here's a comprehensive look at how the crime and punishment system functions in *Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2*.
Related: All Pre-Order Bonuses & Editions for Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2
How Crimes Work in Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2
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In the meticulously crafted world of KCD2, any action that breaks the law is considered a crime. With enhanced AI, NPCs are now more vigilant than ever, quickly noticing and reporting criminal activities. Whether you're caught in the act or hunted down later, expect repercussions for your misdeeds.
The game categorizes the following as illegal activities:
- Murder – Taking the life of innocent NPCs.
- Theft – Pilfering from homes, shops, or unconscious NPCs.
- Lockpicking – Forcing entry into locked buildings or chests.
- Pickpocketing – Stealthily stealing from individuals.
- Assault – Physically attacking civilians or guards.
- Animal Cruelty – Harming domesticated animals.
- Trespassing – Illegally entering private areas.
- Disrupting Order – Causing chaos in towns.
Engaging in these acts can lead to suspicion, arrest, or even more severe consequences, with guards and villagers reacting based on the crime's severity.
What Happens When You're Caught?
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If a guard witnesses your criminal behavior, you'll be reported on the spot. Civilians can also report you, triggering an investigation. When apprehended, you have several options to navigate the situation:
1. Pay the Fine
The simplest way to resolve the issue is by paying a fine, which varies depending on the crime. While stealing might cost you a few Groschen, murder could lead to bankruptcy or harsher penalties.
2. Talk Your Way Out
Leverage your Speech or Charisma skills to persuade guards to overlook minor transgressions. However, convincing them to ignore serious crimes is a much tougher challenge.
3. Run for It
Fleeing is risky but sometimes necessary. Guards will pursue you, and if you escape, you'll be temporarily wanted. Changing your attire or bribing officials can help you return to town undetected.
4. Accept the Punishment
If you can't pay or escape, you'll face the consequences, with the severity of punishment reflecting the nature of your crime.
How Punishments Work in Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2
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Be prepared to face the music if you're caught breaking the law, whether by mistake or design. The punishments in Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2 range from mild to severe:
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, damaging your reputation and inviting ridicule from NPCs.
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 serious or repeat offenders, branding marks you as a criminal. This permanent stigma affects how NPCs interact with you, potentially leading to refusal of trade and heightened guard scrutiny.
4. Execution (Game Over)
The ultimate penalty for the gravest offenses like multiple murders, execution means the end of your journey in Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2.
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 shapes how NPCs perceive and interact with you. Criminal acts can make townsfolk wary or even hostile.
How Reputation Works
Your reputation is tracked separately by each town and faction. A tarnished reputation can lead to NPCs refusing to engage with you, while a good reputation may earn you discounts, additional dialogue, and unique opportunities. Guards may search you more frequently if they suspect your past misdeeds. To repair a damaged reputation, contribute positively to the community through favors, donations to the church, and settling fines, similar to the Honor system in Red Dead Redemption 2.
How to Avoid Getting Caught
The crime system in KCD2 is integral to the game, and while crime is not condoned, you can use it strategically as part of your RPG experience. Here are some tips to avoid detection:
- Eliminate Witnesses – Always check your surroundings before committing a crime. If spotted, change your disguise immediately, perhaps by donning a hat or different clothes.
- Commit Crimes at Night – Darkness offers better cover, making it harder for others to see you.
- Sell Stolen Goods Wisely – Stolen items are flagged in your inventory. Avoid regular merchants and sell to fences or black-market dealers away from the crime scene.
This is how crime and punishment operate in Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2, adding depth and realism to your medieval adventure.
