How Crime and Punishment Work in Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2

Crime and Punishment in Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2: A Comprehensive Guide

Crime in Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2 (KCD2) is far from a trivial matter; it significantly impacts how the game world interacts with you. Actions ranging from petty theft and trespassing to violent assaults carry serious repercussions. This guide details the mechanics of crime and punishment within KCD2.

Defining Criminal Activity in KCD2

Any action disrupting the established order is considered a crime. KCD2's improved AI makes NPCs more perceptive to criminal activity, increasing the likelihood of detection. Consequences range from immediate apprehension to later investigation. Crimes include:

• Murder: Killing innocent NPCs.
• Theft: Stealing from residences, shops, or unconscious individuals.
• Lockpicking: Illegally accessing locked structures or containers.
• Pickpocketing: Directly stealing from NPCs.
• Assault: Attacking civilians or guards.
• Animal Cruelty: Harming domestic animals.
• Trespassing: Unauthorized entry into private property.
• Disrupting Order: Causing disturbances in towns.

Responding to Apprehension

Detection triggers immediate reporting by guards or civilians, initiating an investigation. Your options upon apprehension are:

1. Pay a Fine: The simplest solution, though the cost varies drastically depending on the severity of the crime.
2. Negotiate: High Speech or Charisma skills can sometimes persuade guards to overlook minor offenses. Serious crimes are far less forgiving.
3. Flee: A risky maneuver resulting in a temporary wanted status. Leaving and returning may still lead to recognition unless you alter your appearance or bribe officials.
4. Accept Punishment: If escape or bribery fails, you must endure the consequences.

The Spectrum of Punishment

Punishments escalate in severity based on the crime's gravity:

1. Pillory (Public Humiliation): A short sentence for minor offenses like trespassing or accidental assault, damaging reputation.
2. Caning (Physical Punishment): Public beating for more serious crimes such as theft or assault, reducing health and stamina.
3. Branding (Permanent Criminal Status): A permanent mark for repeat offenders or severe crimes (murder, grand theft), impacting reputation and interactions with NPCs.
4. Execution (Game Over): The ultimate penalty for extremely serious crimes, typically multiple murders.

Reputation Management

Reputation is not merely a statistic; it directly influences how NPCs treat you. Criminal activity diminishes your standing, affecting interactions, quests, and trading opportunities. Conversely, positive actions improve your reputation, unlocking benefits and opportunities. This system mirrors the Honor system in Red Dead Redemption 2.

Evasion Strategies

While the crime system is integral to KCD2, careful planning can minimize the risk of apprehension:

• Minimize Witnesses: Survey your surroundings before acting.
• Disguise: Change clothing or accessories to avoid recognition.
• Nighttime Operations: The cover of darkness hinders detection.
• Strategic Sales: Sell stolen goods to fences or black market dealers, avoiding legitimate merchants.

This detailed guide provides a comprehensive understanding of the crime and punishment system in Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2, enabling players to navigate the game world strategically.