In *Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2*, crime isn't just a minor hiccup—it's a game-changer that can alter the entire world's perception of you. Whether it's stealing, trespassing, or even roughing up a peasant, these actions can land you in hot water. Let's dive into how crime and punishment function within the rich world of *KCD2*.

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How Crimes Work in Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2

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In KCD2, anything that disrupts the law-abiding world is considered a crime. Thanks to improved AI over its predecessor, NPCs are now more vigilant about criminal activity. Commit a crime, and you'll face consequences, whether you're caught in the act or tracked down later.

The game deems the following actions 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. Guards and villagers will react based on the crime's severity.

What Happens When You’re Caught?

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If a guard spots you doing something shady, you'll be reported immediately. Civilians can also report you, prompting an investigation. When caught, you have several options:

1. Pay the Fine

Paying a fine is the easiest way out. The amount varies with the crime—stealing might cost you a few Groschen, while murder could bankrupt you or lead to harsher punishment.

2. Talk Your Way Out

If your Speech or Charisma is high, you might convince guards to let you go. This works better for minor crimes, but for serious offenses, it's much harder to sweet-talk your way out.

3. Run for It

Running isn't ideal, but sometimes it's your only option. Guards will chase you, and escaping will temporarily make you a wanted man. If you leave town and return later, people may still recognize you unless you change your clothes or bribe officials.

4. Accept the Punishment

If you can’t pay or escape, you’ll face the consequences. The punishment's severity depends on your crime.

How Punishments Work in Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2

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Whether your crime was intentional or accidental, you should be prepared for the repercussions. Punishments vary based on the crime's severity, ranging from a slap on the wrist to execution. Here are the punishments you might face in Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2:

1. Pillory (Public Humiliation)

For minor offenses like trespassing, reckless driving, or accidental punches, 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 assault and theft result in caning. Guards will publicly beat you, reducing your health and stamina temporarily.

3. Branding (Permanent Criminal Status)

Reserved for repeat offenders or serious crimes like murder or heavy theft, branding marks your neck and labels you a criminal. NPCs will treat you as such, merchants will refuse to trade with you, and guards will watch you closely, possibly attacking if you make suspicious moves.

4. Execution (Game Over)

As the name suggests, execution means game over. This punishment is usually reserved for the most severe crimes, like multiple murders.

Related: How to Get the Best Ending in Kingdom Come Deliverance 2

How Crime Affects Your Reputation

Your reputation isn't just a number; it directly influences how people treat you. Committing crimes can make townsfolk suspicious or hostile.

How Reputation Works

Each town and faction tracks your reputation separately. A drop in reputation may lead people to refuse to talk, trade, or offer quests. Conversely, a high reputation can earn you discounts, extra dialogue, and special opportunities. Guards may search you more often if they suspect past crimes. To repair a tarnished reputation, help the community by doing favors, donating to the church, and paying off fines. This system resembles the Honor system in Red Dead Redemption 2.

How to Avoid Getting Caught

The crime system in KCD2 is part of the game's fabric, allowing you to use it strategically. While committing crimes isn't moral, in an RPG, you have the freedom to make such choices. To avoid getting caught:

• Don’t leave witnesses—always check your surroundings before committing a crime. If someone sees you, change your disguise immediately, perhaps by putting on a hat or different clothes.
• Commit crimes at night—nighttime makes it harder for others to spot you.
• Sell stolen goods wisely—stolen items are marked in your inventory. Avoid selling them to regular merchants to evade detection. Instead, take them to fences or black-market dealers far from the crime scene.

That's how crime and punishment work in Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2.