In *Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2*, crime isn't just a minor inconvenience—it can completely change how the world reacts to you. Engaging in activities like stealing, trespassing, or even roughing up a peasant can land you in serious trouble. Here’s a detailed look at how crime and punishment work in this immersive RPG.
How Crimes Work in Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2
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In the world of *KCD2*, any action that disrupts the law-abiding community is considered a crime. The sequel boasts enhanced AI, making NPCs more vigilant and responsive to criminal activity. Whether you're caught in the act or tracked down later, the consequences can be severe.
The game recognizes 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 crime's severity.
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, initiating an investigation. When caught, you have several options:
1. Pay the Fine
The simplest solution is to pay a fine, which varies based on the crime. Stealing might cost you a few Groschen, while murder could lead to financial ruin or harsher punishment.
2. Talk Your Way Out
If your **Speech** or **Charisma** skills are high, you might persuade guards to let you go, especially for minor crimes. However, serious offenses are much harder to talk your way out of.
3. Run for It
Running isn't ideal, but sometimes it's your only choice. Guards will chase you, and escaping will temporarily make you a wanted man. Returning to town later might still lead to recognition 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 severity of the punishment correlates with the crime committed.
How Punishments Work in Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2
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Whether your crime was accidental or deliberate, be prepared for the consequences. Punishments range from a slap on the wrist to execution, escalating with the crime's severity.
1. Pillory (Public Humiliation)
Minor offenses like trespassing, reckless driving, or accidental assault result in time in the pillory, typically lasting a few in-game days. This will damage your reputation, with NPCs mocking you.
2. Caning (Physical Punishment)
Mid-tier crimes such as assault and theft lead to caning. This public beating reduces your health and stamina for a period.
3. Branding (Permanent Criminal Status)
Reserved for repeat offenders or serious crimes like murder or significant theft, branding marks your neck with a criminal label. This affects how NPCs interact with you, with merchants refusing to trade and guards keeping a close watch.
4. Execution (Game Over)
The ultimate punishment for the most severe crimes, such as multiple murders, results in execution and a game over.
How Crime Affects Your Reputation
Your reputation is more than just a number—it shapes how people treat you. Committing crimes can make townsfolk suspicious or outright hostile.
How Reputation Works
Each town and faction tracks your reputation independently. A low reputation may lead to refusal of conversation, trade, or quests, while a high reputation can grant discounts, additional dialogue, and unique opportunities. Guards may search you more frequently if they suspect past crimes. To improve a tarnished reputation, help the community through favors, church donations, and paying fines, 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 strategically. While committing crimes isn't morally right, in this RPG, you have the freedom to act as you wish. To minimize the risk of getting caught:
- Eliminate Witnesses: Always check your surroundings before committing a crime. If someone sees you, change your disguise immediately, perhaps by donning a hat or different clothes.
- Commit Crimes at Night: Nighttime provides better cover, making it harder for others to spot you.
- Sell Stolen Goods Wisely: Stolen items are marked in your inventory. Avoid selling them to regular merchants; instead, find fences or black-market dealers far from the crime scene.
This comprehensive guide outlines how crime and punishment operate in *Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2*, offering insights into maintaining your character's integrity and navigating the game's intricate legal system.
