Crime and Punishment Mechanics in Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2 Revealed

Crime in *Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2* isn’t just a minor misstep—it’s a game-changer. Actions like theft, assault, or trespassing don’t just go unnoticed; they shape how the world sees and treats you. Whether you're playing as a nobleman or a rogue, understanding the consequences of crime is essential to surviving in this immersive medieval RPG.

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How Crimes Work in Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2

The sequel introduces a more sophisticated crime system compared to the original, with smarter AI that heightens the realism. NPCs are now more observant and responsive to criminal behavior. If you commit a crime, expect real repercussions—whether caught red-handed or pursued later by town guards.

In *Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2*, the following actions are considered illegal:

• Murder – Killing innocent NPCs
• Theft – Stealing from homes, shops, or unconscious individuals
• Lockpicking – Breaking into locked buildings or chests
• Pickpocketing – Taking items directly from people
• Assault – Attacking civilians or guards
• Animal Cruelty – Hurting domestic animals
• Trespassing – Entering private areas without permission
• Disrupting Order – Causing disturbances in towns

Each offense increases your notoriety and may lead to suspicion, arrest, or harsher consequences depending on the severity and witnesses involved.

What Happens When You’re Caught?

If a guard catches you in the act, you’ll be arrested immediately. Civilians can also report your actions, triggering an investigation. Once caught, you have several options:

1. Pay the Fine

This is often the quickest solution. Fines vary based on the severity of the crime—minor theft might cost only a few Groschen, but murder could result in exorbitant penalties or even execution.

2. Talk Your Way Out

If your **Speech** or **Charisma** traits are high enough, you may convince guards to release you. This method works best for minor offenses, as serious crimes are rarely forgiven through words alone.

3. Run for It

Escaping is risky but sometimes viable. Guards will chase you, marking you as a wanted person temporarily. Leaving the town and changing your appearance—such as swapping clothes—can help you evade detection, though bribing officials might also be necessary.

4. Accept the Punishment

If you can't pay, talk, or run, you must face the full weight of justice. The punishment depends on the nature of your crime, ranging from public humiliation to execution.

How Punishments Work in Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2

Your fate after committing a crime hinges largely on its severity. Here's what you could face:

1. Pillory (Public Humiliation)

A sentence reserved for minor offenses such as trespassing, accidental violence, or disorderly conduct. You’ll be locked in the pillory for a few in-game days, mocked by NPCs, and suffer a hit to your reputation.

2. Caning (Physical Punishment)

Given for moderate crimes like theft or assault. Guards will publicly beat you, temporarily reducing your health and stamina. A painful but survivable consequence.

3. Branding (Permanent Criminal Status)

Repeat offenders or those guilty of severe crimes like murder or heavy theft face permanent branding. A mark on your neck labels you a criminal, leading to refusal of trade, increased suspicion, and potential aggression from guards.

4. Execution (Game Over)

The ultimate penalty. Reserved for heinous crimes like multiple murders, execution ends your current playthrough unless you manage to escape before judgment.

How Crime Affects Your Reputation

Your reputation in *KCD2* isn’t just a stat—it shapes every interaction. Committing crimes makes NPCs wary or openly hostile toward you. Each town and faction tracks your standing independently, so you might be a hero in one village and a wanted criminal in another.

• Low reputation leads to refused dialogue, denied quests, and higher scrutiny from guards.
• High reputation opens doors to discounts, special dialogue, and unique opportunities.
• Guards are more likely to search you if you have a history of crime.

To improve your reputation, engage in positive actions like helping locals, donating to the church, or paying off fines. This system mirrors the honor mechanic in games like *Red Dead Redemption 2*, rewarding lawful behavior while punishing misconduct.

How to Avoid Getting Caught

The crime system is deeply integrated into *KCD2*, offering both risk and reward. While committing crimes is never encouraged, the game allows you to explore darker paths—if you're smart about it.

• Avoid witnesses – Always check your surroundings before acting. If someone sees you, change your appearance immediately.
• Commit crimes at night – Darkness provides natural cover and lowers the chance of being spotted.
• Sell stolen goods wisely – Selling stolen items to regular merchants will get you caught. Instead, find black-market dealers or fences far from where the crime occurred.

*Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2* offers a realistic and dynamic crime system that adds depth to player choice. Whether you choose to play as a law-abiding citizen or a rogue outlaw, understanding how crime and punishment work ensures you’re always in control of your destiny.

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