Kingdom Come 2: Crime & Punishment Explained

In *Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2*, crime isn't a minor issue; it dramatically alters how the world interacts with you. Stealing, trespassing, or even roughing up a peasant can lead to significant repercussions. This guide explains the game's crime and punishment system.

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How Crimes Work in Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2

Any action disrupting KCD2's law-abiding world is a crime. The sequel's improved AI makes NPCs more crime-aware. Expect consequences, whether caught in the act or tracked later. Illegal actions include:

• 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.

These actions can lead to suspicion, arrest, or worse. Guard and villager reactions vary based on crime severity.

What Happens When You’re Caught?

Guards will report you immediately if they see you committing a crime. Civilians can also report you, triggering an investigation. Upon capture, you have options:

1. Pay the Fine

The easiest solution; the amount depends on the crime. Minor theft costs a few Groschen, but murder will be far more expensive or lead to harsher punishment.

2. Talk Your Way Out

High Speech or Charisma skills might convince guards to let you go. This works best for minor crimes; serious offenses are harder to talk your way out of.

3. Run for It

A risky option. Escaping makes you a wanted man, temporarily. Returning to town 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, varying in severity depending on the crime.

How Punishments Work in Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2

Punishments range from minor inconveniences to execution.

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, harming your reputation.

2. Caning (Physical Punishment)

Caning is given for mid-tier crimes like assault and theft, reducing health and stamina.

3. Branding (Permanent Criminal Status)

Reserved for repeat offenders or serious crimes like murder or significant theft. You'll be branded, treated as a criminal, and merchants will refuse to trade with you.

4. Execution (Game Over)

The ultimate punishment for severe crimes, resulting in a game over.

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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. Low reputation leads to refusal of quests and trade; high reputation offers discounts and special opportunities. Guards will search you more often if they suspect you of past crimes. Improving reputation requires community service, donations, and paying fines. This system is similar to Honor in *Red Dead Redemption 2*.

How to Avoid Getting Caught

While the crime system is part of the game, use caution. To avoid capture:

• Minimize witnesses: Check your surroundings before committing crimes.
• Change disguise: Change clothes or hats if seen.
• Commit crimes at night: Nighttime provides better cover.
• Sell stolen goods wisely: Use fences or black-market dealers, far from the crime scene.

This guide covers crime and punishment in *Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2*.