Crime in Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2 isn't a mere inconvenience; it fundamentally alters how the world interacts with you. Stealing, trespassing, or even roughing up a peasant can have significant consequences. This guide details how crime and punishment function in Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2.
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How Crimes Work in Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2
Any action disrupting KCD2's law-abiding world is considered a crime. The sequel features improved AI, making NPCs far more perceptive of criminal activity. Expect repercussions, whether caught in the act or tracked down later. These actions are considered 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 these acts can lead to suspicion, arrest, or worse. Guard and villager reactions vary depending on the crime's severity.
What Happens When You’re Caught?
Guards will report you immediately if they witness your misdeeds. Civilians can also report you, triggering an investigation. When caught, your options are:
1. Pay the Fine
The easiest solution, though the cost depends on the crime. Minor theft might cost a few Groschen, but murder could bankrupt you or lead to harsher punishment.
2. Talk Your Way Out
High Speech or Charisma skills might allow you to convince guards to let you go. This works best for minor crimes; serious offenses are much harder to talk your way out of.
3. Run for It
A risky option. Guards will chase you, temporarily making you a wanted man. Leaving town and returning later might still result in recognition unless you change clothes or bribe officials.
4. Accept the Punishment
If you can't pay or escape, you'll face the consequences, varying in severity based on your crime.
How Punishments Work in Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2
Punishments range from minor inconveniences to execution, depending on the crime's severity:
1. Pillory (Public Humiliation)
Minor offenses like trespassing or accidental assault result in confinement in the pillory for a few in-game days. This damages your reputation, leading to public mockery.
2. Caning (Physical Punishment)
A physical punishment for mid-tier crimes like assault and theft, reducing your health and stamina.
3. Branding (Permanent Criminal Status)
Reserved for repeat offenders or serious crimes like murder or significant theft. You're branded, labeled a criminal, and treated accordingly by NPCs and guards.
4. Execution (Game Over)
The ultimate consequence for severe crimes, often multiple murders.
How Crime Affects Your Reputation
Reputation significantly impacts how people treat you. Each town and faction tracks your reputation separately. A poor reputation leads to hostility and limited opportunities; a good reputation unlocks discounts, extra dialogue, and unique quests.
How Reputation Works
Improve your reputation by helping the community: doing favors, donating to the church, and paying fines. This system is similar to Honor in Red Dead Redemption 2.
How to Avoid Getting Caught
The crime system is a game mechanic; use it wisely. To avoid capture:
- Minimize Witnesses: Check your surroundings before committing crimes and change your appearance if necessary.
- Nighttime Operations: Commit crimes at night for better concealment.
- Wisely Sell Stolen Goods: Avoid selling stolen goods to regular merchants; use fences or black-market dealers far from the crime scene.
This guide covers crime and punishment in Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2.
