In Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2, crime isn't just a minor setback—it reshapes how the world responds to you. Actions like theft, trespassing, or harming villagers can lead to serious consequences. Here's how the crime and punishment mechanics function in Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2.
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How Crimes Operate in Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2
Any act that disrupts the lawful order of KCD2 is deemed a crime. Compared to its predecessor, the sequel features enhanced AI, making NPCs more vigilant about illegal activities. Committing a crime brings consequences, whether you're caught on the spot or hunted down later.
The game classifies these actions as illegal:
- Murder – Killing innocent NPCs.
- Theft – Stealing from homes, shops, or unconscious NPCs.
- Lockpicking – Breaking into secured buildings or chests.
- Pickpocketing – Stealing directly from individuals.
- Assault – Attacking civilians or guards.
- Animal Cruelty – Harming domestic animals.
- Trespassing – Entering restricted areas without permission.
- Disrupting Order – Causing disturbances in towns.
Engaging in these acts can trigger suspicion, arrest, or harsher outcomes. Guards and villagers react based on the crime's severity.
What Happens When You're Caught?
If a guard spots you committing a crime, you'll be reported immediately. Civilians may also turn you in, sparking an investigation. When apprehended, you have several options:
1. Pay the Fine
Paying a fine is the simplest way to resolve the issue. The cost varies by crime—petty theft might require a small payment, but murder could drain your funds or lead to severe penalties.
2. Talk Your Way Out
High Speech or Charisma stats might persuade guards to overlook minor offenses. For serious crimes, convincing them becomes significantly more challenging.
3. Run for It
Fleeing is risky but sometimes necessary. Guards will pursue you, and escaping marks you as wanted temporarily. Returning to town later may still draw attention unless you change your appearance or bribe officials.
4. Accept the Punishment
If you can't pay or escape, you'll face the consequences. The punishment's severity depends on the crime committed.
How Punishments Function in Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2
Whether accidental or deliberate, crimes come with consequences. Punishments range from mild to severe based on the offense's gravity. From a minor reprimand to execution, here are the penalties you may face in Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2, each escalating in severity.
1. Pillory (Public Humiliation)
Minor offenses like trespassing or accidental harm to an NPC may land you in the pillory for a few in-game days. This public humiliation damages your reputation, with NPCs mocking you.
2. Caning (Physical Punishment)
Mid-level crimes like assault or theft result in caning. Guards publicly beat you, temporarily reducing your health and stamina.
3. Branding (Permanent Criminal Status)
Repeat offenders or those guilty of serious crimes like murder face branding. A mark on your neck labels you a criminal, causing NPCs to shun you, merchants to refuse trade, and guards to watch you closely, potentially attacking if you act suspiciously.
4. Execution (Game Over)
Execution, reserved for heinous crimes like multiple murders, ends your game.
Related: How to Get the Best Ending in Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2
How Crime Impacts Your Reputation
Your reputation shapes how NPCs interact with you. Criminal acts make townsfolk wary or hostile.
How Reputation Works
- Each town and faction tracks your reputation independently.
- A low reputation may lead to NPCs refusing to talk, trade, or offer quests.
- A high reputation unlocks discounts, extra dialogue, and unique opportunities.
- Guards may search you more frequently if you're suspected of past crimes.
To mend a tarnished reputation, contribute to the community through favors, church donations, or paying fines. This system mirrors the Honor mechanics in Red Dead Redemption 2.
How to Evade Detection
The crime system in KCD2 is integral to the RPG experience, allowing freedom to act as you choose. However, carelessness can lead to capture. Here are strategies to avoid getting caught.
- Ensure no witnesses—always check your surroundings before acting.
- If spotted, change your appearance immediately, such as wearing a hat or new clothes.
- Commit crimes at night when visibility is low, making detection harder.
- Sell stolen goods cautiously. Marked items can incriminate you if sold to regular merchants. Use fences or black-market dealers far from the crime scene.
That’s how the crime and punishment system operates in Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2.
