In *Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2*, crime isn't just a minor hiccup—it can dramatically alter how the world interacts with you. Whether you're stealing, trespassing, or engaging in physical altercations, the repercussions can be severe. Let's delve into the intricacies of crime and punishment within the game.
How Crimes Work in Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2
Screenshot captured by The Escapist. In *KCD2*, any action that disrupts the law-abiding community is considered a crime. With an enhanced AI system compared to its predecessor, NPCs are now more vigilant and responsive to criminal activities. Whether you're caught in the act or hunted down later, the consequences are inevitable.
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.
Engaging in any of these activities can lead to suspicion, arrest, or even more severe outcomes. The reactions of guards and villagers vary based on the crime's severity.
What Happens When You’re Caught?
Screenshot captured by The Escapist. If a guard witnesses your misdeed, you'll be reported on the spot. Civilians can also report you, triggering an investigation. When apprehended, you have several options:
1. Pay the Fine
The simplest way out is to pay a fine, which varies based on the crime. Stealing might cost you a few Groschen, but murder could lead to financial ruin or harsher penalties.
2. Talk Your Way Out
If your **Speech** or **Charisma** skills are high, you might persuade guards to let you go, especially for minor offenses. However, convincing them to overlook serious crimes is much more challenging.
3. Run for It
Fleeing is risky but sometimes necessary. Guards will pursue you, and escaping will temporarily make you a wanted man. Returning to town later might still result in 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, which vary in severity depending on your actions.
How Punishments Work in Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2
Screenshot captured by The Escapist. Whether your crime was accidental or deliberate, be ready to face the consequences. Punishments range from minor to severe, depending on the crime's gravity:
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. This will damage your reputation, and NPCs will mock you.
2. Caning (Physical Punishment)
Mid-tier crimes like theft or assault result in caning, a public beating that temporarily reduces your health and stamina.
3. Branding (Permanent Criminal Status)
Reserved for repeat offenders or serious crimes like murder, branding marks you as a criminal. NPCs will treat you differently, merchants may refuse to trade with you, and guards will keep a close watch on you.
4. Execution (Game Over)
The ultimate penalty for the gravest offenses, such as multiple murders, execution means the end of your game.
How Crime Affects Your Reputation
Your reputation in *KCD2* is more than just a number; it influences 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 talk, trade, or offer quests, while a high reputation can unlock discounts, additional dialogue, and special opportunities. Guards may search you more frequently if they suspect past crimes. To improve a tarnished reputation, engage in community service, donate to the church, or pay off fines. This system is somewhat akin to the Honor system in *Red Dead Redemption 2*.
How to Avoid Getting Caught
The crime system in *KCD2* is designed to be part of the gameplay experience. While committing crimes isn't morally right, in an RPG, you have the freedom to choose your actions. To minimize the risk of getting caught:
- Ensure no witnesses are around before committing a crime. If someone sees you, quickly change your disguise.
- Commit crimes at night when visibility is low.
- Sell stolen goods carefully. Stolen items are marked in your inventory, so avoid selling them to regular merchants. Instead, find fences or black-market dealers far from the crime scene.
Understanding how crime and punishment work in *Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2* can help you navigate the game's world more effectively, whether you choose to uphold the law or test its boundaries.
