Crime and Punishment System in Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2 Explained

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

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How Crimes Work in Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2

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In KCD2, any action that disrupts the law-abiding world is considered a crime. The sequel boasts improved AI, making NPCs more vigilant and responsive to criminal activity. Committing a crime can lead to immediate consequences or result in you being tracked down later.

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 trigger suspicion, arrest, or worse. The reactions of guards and villagers will vary based on the crime's severity.

What Happens When You’re Caught?

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If a guard catches you in the act, you'll be reported immediately. Similarly, civilians can report you, prompting an investigation. When caught, you have several options:

1. Pay the Fine

Paying a fine is the easiest way out, though the amount depends on the crime. Stealing might cost you a few Groschen, but murder could lead to financial ruin or harsher punishment.

2. Talk Your Way Out

With high Speech or Charisma, you might convince guards to let you go, especially for minor crimes. Serious offenses make this option much harder.

3. Run for It

While not ideal, running can be your only escape. Guards will pursue you, making you temporarily wanted. If you leave town and return later, changing your clothes or bribing officials might help you go unnoticed.

4. Accept the Punishment

If you can’t pay or escape, you'll face the consequences. The punishment's severity depends on your crime.

How Punishments Work in Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2

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In Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2, the consequences of your actions can range from minor to severe. Here are the possible punishments:

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 will damage your reputation as NPCs mock you.

2. Caning (Physical Punishment)

Mid-tier crimes such as assault and theft result in caning. Guards will publicly beat you, temporarily reducing your health and stamina.

3. Branding (Permanent Criminal Status)

Reserved for repeat offenders or serious crimes like murder, branding marks your neck with a criminal symbol. NPCs will treat you as a criminal, merchants may refuse to trade with you, and guards will keep a close watch on you.

4. Execution (Game Over)

The ultimate punishment for the most severe crimes, such as multiple murders, execution results in a game over.

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How Crime Affects Your Reputation

Your reputation significantly influences how NPCs interact with you. Committing crimes can make townsfolk suspicious or hostile.

How Reputation Works

Each town and faction tracks your reputation independently. A low reputation may result in people refusing to talk, trade, or offer quests. Conversely, a high reputation can earn you discounts, extra dialogue, and special opportunities. Guards may search you more frequently if you're suspected of past crimes. To improve a tarnished reputation, help the community, donate to the church, or pay off fines. This system mirrors the Honor system in Red Dead Redemption 2.

How to Avoid Getting Caught

The crime system in KCD2 is a core element of the game, allowing you to navigate it strategically. While committing crimes isn't morally right, in an RPG, you have the freedom to choose your actions. Here are some tips to avoid detection:

• Don’t leave witnesses—always check your surroundings before acting.
• Change your disguise—if someone sees you, quickly change your appearance with a hat or different clothes.
• Commit crimes at night—lower visibility makes 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 how crime and punishment operate in Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2.