Crime and Punishment Mechanics in Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2 Revealed

In *Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2*, crime isn't just a minor inconvenience—it can completely change how the world reacts to you. Whether you're stealing, trespassing, or even roughing up a peasant, these actions can land you in serious trouble. Here's a comprehensive look at 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 about criminal activities. If you commit a crime, be prepared for consequences, whether you're caught in the act or 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 lead to suspicion, arrest, or worse. The reactions of guards and villagers vary based on the severity of the crime.

What Happens When You’re Caught?

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If a guard witnesses your shady behavior, you'll be reported immediately. Civilians can also report you, triggering an investigation. When caught, you have several options:

1. Pay the Fine

Paying a fine is the easiest way out. The amount varies with the crime—stealing might cost you a few Groschen, but murder could bankrupt you or lead to harsher punishment.

2. Talk Your Way Out

With high Speech or Charisma, you might persuade guards to let you go. This works best for minor crimes, but serious offenses are much harder to talk your way out of.

3. Run for It

Running is not the best option, but sometimes it's your only choice. Guards will chase you, and escaping will temporarily make you a wanted man. If you leave town and return later, people may still recognize you unless you change your clothes or bribe officials.

4. Accept the Punishment

If you can't pay and can't escape, you'll have to face the consequences. The severity of your punishment depends on the crime committed.

How Punishments Work in Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2

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Whether your crime was intentional or accidental, be prepared to face the consequences. Punishments vary based on the severity of your actions, ranging from a slap on the wrist to execution. Here are the punishments you can face in Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2, each more severe than the last:

1. Pillory (Public Humiliation)

For minor offenses like trespassing, reckless driving, or accidental assault, you'll be locked in the pillory for a few in-game days. This will damage your reputation, and NPCs will mock you.

2. Caning (Physical Punishment)

Mid-tier crimes like assault and theft result in caning. Guards will publicly beat you, reducing your health and stamina for a while.

3. Branding (Permanent Criminal Status)

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

4. Execution (Game Over)

Execution is reserved for the most severe crimes, such as multiple murders, and results in a game over.

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

How Crime Affects Your Reputation

Your reputation isn't just a number—it directly influences how people treat you. Committing crimes can make townsfolk suspicious or outright hostile.

How Reputation Works

Each town and faction tracks your reputation separately. A low reputation may lead to people refusing to talk, trade, or offer quests. Conversely, a high reputation can earn you discounts, extra dialogue, and special opportunities. Guards will search you more often if they suspect you of past crimes. To improve a tarnished reputation, help the community by doing favors, donating to the church, and paying off fines. This system is somewhat similar to the Honor system in Red Dead Redemption 2.

How to Avoid Getting Caught

The crime system is an integral part of KCD2, and you can use it to your advantage. While committing crimes isn't right, this is an RPG where you can make your choices. However, if you're not careful, you can easily get caught. Here are some tips to avoid detection:

• Don’t leave witnesses—always check your surroundings before committing a crime. If someone sees you, change your disguise immediately, perhaps by putting on a hat or changing clothes.
• Commit crimes at night—nighttime is the best time for criminal activities, as it's harder to spot you.
• Sell stolen goods wisely—stolen items are marked in your inventory. Avoid selling them to regular merchants, as this can get you caught. Instead, take them to fences or black-market dealers far from the crime scene.

That’s how crime and punishment work in Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2.