How Crime and Punishment Work in Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2

Crime in Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2 is a significant gameplay mechanic, drastically altering NPC interactions. Actions like theft, trespassing, or assault have serious repercussions. This guide details the crime and punishment system.

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How Crimes Work

The improved AI in KCD2 makes NPCs more vigilant. Any infraction, from minor disturbances to violent acts, is considered a crime. Consequences range from immediate apprehension to later investigation. Crimes include:

• Murder: Killing innocent NPCs.
• Theft: Stealing from homes, shops, or unconscious individuals.
• Lockpicking: Illegally accessing buildings or containers.
• Pickpocketing: Directly stealing from people.
• Assault: Attacking civilians or guards.
• Animal Cruelty: Harming domestic animals.
• Trespassing: Entering restricted areas.
• Disrupting Order: Causing disturbances in towns.

Consequences of Apprehension

Guards and witnesses will report criminal activity. Upon apprehension, options include:

1. Paying a Fine: The cost varies depending on the crime's severity.
2. Talking Your Way Out: High Speech/Charisma skills can sometimes avoid punishment, particularly for minor offenses.
3. Fleeing: This makes you a wanted fugitive, requiring evasion and potentially disguise changes to avoid recapture.
4. Accepting Punishment: This results in penalties based on the crime committed.

Punishment Severity

Punishments range from minor inconveniences to execution:

1. Pillory (Public Humiliation): A short sentence for minor offenses, impacting reputation.
2. Caning (Physical Punishment): Public beating for more serious crimes, reducing health and stamina.
3. Branding (Permanent Criminal Status): A permanent mark for repeat offenders or severe crimes, affecting NPC interactions and trade opportunities.
4. Execution (Game Over): The ultimate penalty for egregious crimes.

Reputation System

Reputation impacts how NPCs interact with you. Crimes lower reputation, affecting dialogue, quests, and trade opportunities. Improving reputation requires community service, donations, and fine payments. This system mirrors the Honor system in Red Dead Redemption 2.

Avoiding Capture

While the crime system adds depth, careful planning is crucial. Strategies for avoiding capture include:

• Eliminating Witnesses: Ensuring no one observes criminal activity.
• Disguise: Changing appearance to avoid recognition.
• Nighttime Operations: Committing crimes under the cover of darkness.
• Discreet Sales: Selling stolen goods to fences or black-market dealers, away from the crime scene.

This comprehensive guide provides a detailed understanding of the crime and punishment mechanics in Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2.