How Crime and Punishment Work in Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2

Crime in Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2 isn't a mere inconvenience; it's a game-changer. Stealing, trespassing, even roughing up a peasant can have significant consequences. This guide details how crime and punishment function in Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2.

Recommended Videos
**Related: All Pre-Order Bonuses & Editions for Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2**

How Crimes Work in Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2

Anything disrupting KCD2's law-abiding world is a crime. The sequel's improved AI makes NPCs far more observant. Expect consequences, whether caught red-handed or tracked down later. These actions are considered 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 can lead to suspicion, arrest, or worse. Guard and villager reactions vary based on the crime's severity.

What Happens When You’re Caught?

Guards will report you immediately if they witness criminal activity. Civilians can also report you, triggering an investigation. When caught, your options are:

1. Pay the Fine

The easiest escape, though the amount depends on the crime. Stealing might cost a few Groschen, but murder could lead to bankruptcy or harsher punishment.

2. Talk Your Way Out

High Speech or Charisma can convince guards to let you go, especially for minor crimes. Serious offenses are much harder to talk your way out of.

3. Run for It

A risky option. Guards will chase you, making you a wanted man. Leaving and returning later might still lead to recognition unless you change clothes or bribe officials.

4. Accept the Punishment

If you can't pay or escape, face the consequences. Punishment severity depends on your crime.

How Punishments Work in Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2

Prepare for consequences, whether intentional or accidental. Punishments range from minor inconveniences to execution.

1. Pillory (Public Humiliation)

Minor offenses like trespassing or accidental assault result in being locked in the pillory for a few in-game days. This damages your reputation.

2. Caning (Physical Punishment)

Caning is the punishment for mid-tier crimes like assault and theft. Expect a public beating, reducing your health and stamina.

3. Branding (Permanent Criminal Status)

Reserved for repeat offenders or serious crimes like murder or significant theft. A neck brand marks you as a criminal, impacting NPC interactions and guard behavior.

4. Execution (Game Over)

The ultimate punishment for severe crimes, usually multiple murders.

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

How Crime Affects Your Reputation

Reputation significantly impacts how people treat you. Crimes make townsfolk suspicious or hostile.

How Reputation Works

Each town and faction tracks your reputation separately. A low reputation hinders interactions, quests, and trade. A high reputation unlocks discounts, extra dialogue, and opportunities. Guards will search you more frequently if they suspect past crimes. Improving reputation requires community help: doing favors, donating to the church, and paying fines. This system is similar to Honor in Red Dead Redemption 2.

How to Avoid Getting Caught

The crime system is part of the game; use it wisely. Here's how to avoid getting caught:

• Minimize Witnesses: Check your surroundings before committing a crime. Change your disguise if spotted.
• Nighttime Operations: Commit crimes at night for better concealment.
• Wisely Sell Stolen Goods: Stolen items are marked. Sell them to fences or black-market dealers far from the crime scene.