"Crime and Punishment Mechanics in Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2 Revealed"

In *Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2*, crime isn't just a minor hiccup—it can dramatically alter how the world around you reacts. Engaging in activities such as stealing, trespassing, or even assaulting a peasant can land you in serious trouble. Let's delve into how crime and punishment function within the immersive world of *KCD2*.

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 an improved AI system, making NPCs more vigilant and responsive to criminal activities. If you commit a crime, be prepared for consequences—whether it's immediate capture or being hunted down later.

The game categorizes the following actions as illegal:

• Murder – Taking the life of innocent NPCs.
• Theft – Stealing from homes, shops, or unconscious NPCs.
• Lockpicking – Breaking into locked buildings or chests.
• Pickpocketing – Stealing directly from individuals.
• Assault – Attacking civilians or guards.
• Animal Cruelty – Harming domestic animals.
• Trespassing – Entering private areas without permission.
• Disrupting Order – Causing chaos in towns.

Committing any of these offenses can lead to suspicion, arrest, or even harsher outcomes. Guards and villagers will react based on the severity of the crime.

What Happens When You’re Caught?

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If a guard witnesses your illicit activities, you'll be reported on the spot. Civilians can also alert authorities, triggering an investigation. When caught, you face several options:

1. Pay the Fine

The simplest way to resolve the situation is by paying a fine. The cost varies with the crime—petty theft might only set you back a few Groschen, but murder could bankrupt you or lead to severe punishment.

2. Talk Your Way Out

With high **Speech** or **Charisma** skills, you might persuade guards to let you off the hook, especially for minor offenses. However, serious crimes make it much tougher to sweet-talk your way out.

3. Run for It

Fleeing is risky but sometimes necessary. Guards will pursue you, and escaping will mark you as wanted temporarily. If you leave town and return later, disguising yourself or bribing officials might help you avoid recognition.

4. Accept the Punishment

If you can't pay or escape, you'll have to face the consequences, which vary based on your crime.

How Punishments Work in Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2

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Whether your crime was accidental or deliberate, be ready to face the consequences. Punishments range from a light slap on the wrist to execution, escalating in severity:

1. Pillory (Public Humiliation)

Minor offenses like trespassing or accidental assault may result in time in the pillory. You'll spend a few in-game days there, damaging your reputation as NPCs mock you.

2. Caning (Physical Punishment)

Mid-tier crimes like assault and theft warrant caning. This public beating reduces your health and stamina for a period.

3. Branding (Permanent Criminal Status)

Reserved for repeat offenders or severe crimes like murder or grand theft, branding marks you with a permanent criminal status. NPCs will treat you with suspicion, merchants may refuse to trade, and guards will keep a close watch on you.

4. Execution (Game Over)

The ultimate penalty for the gravest offenses, like multiple murders, execution means the end of your journey in *KCD2*.

How Crime Affects Your Reputation

Your reputation is more than just a number—it directly impacts how NPCs interact with you. Committing crimes can make townsfolk suspicious or hostile.

How Reputation Works

Each town and faction tracks your reputation independently. A low reputation can lead to NPCs refusing to speak, trade, or offer quests, while a high reputation can earn you discounts, additional dialogue, and unique opportunities. Guards may search you more frequently if they suspect past crimes. To mend a tarnished reputation, engage in community service, donate to the church, or pay off fines. This system shares similarities with the Honor system in *Red Dead Redemption 2*.

How to Avoid Getting Caught

The crime system in *KCD2* is a core element of the RPG experience, allowing you to navigate the game world in your preferred style. However, committing crimes without caution can lead to capture. Here are strategies to evade detection:

• Avoid Witnesses – Always check your surroundings before committing a crime. If someone sees you, quickly change your disguise with a hat or new clothes.
• Commit Crimes at Night – Darkness makes it harder for NPCs to spot you, making nighttime the ideal time for illicit activities.
• Sell Stolen Goods Wisely – Stolen items are marked in your inventory. Avoid selling them to regular merchants; instead, find fences or black-market dealers away from the crime scene.

This is how crime and punishment operate in *Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2*, adding depth and consequence to your actions within the game's rich world.