Criminal activities in *Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2* significantly influence your gameplay experience – theft, violence, or even minor offenses can drastically alter how NPCs perceive and interact with you.
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Crime Mechanics in Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2
Any unlawful action disrupts the medieval world of *KCD2*. The sequel features enhanced AI that makes NPCs more vigilant about crimes. Whether caught red-handed or identified later, expect realistic consequences for your misdeeds.
The game recognizes these illegal actions:
- Murder – Killing innocent characters
- Theft – Taking property from homes or unaware NPCs
- Lockpicking – Illegal entry into secured areas
- Pickpocketing – Direct theft from individuals
- Assault – Violence against townsfolk or guards
- Animal Cruelty – Harming domesticated animals
- Trespassing – Unauthorized entry into private areas
- Public Disturbance – Causing chaos in settlements
Consequences When Apprehended
Guards immediately respond to witnessed crimes, while civilians may report offenses to authorities. When apprehended, you face several options:
1. Pay the Fine
The simplest resolution involves paying fines proportionate to your crimes – from small fees for petty theft to substantial penalties for serious offenses.
2. Use Persuasion
High Speech or Charisma skills may help negotiate your release for minor violations, though serious crimes prove difficult to talk your way out of.
3. Flee the Scene
A risky option involving pursuit by guards and temporary wanted status. Changing appearance or bribing officials may help avoid recognition upon returning.
4. Face Judgment
When all else fails, you must endure appropriate punishment for your actions.
Punishment System Explained
The justice system delivers scaled punishments matching crime severity:
1. Public Humiliation
Minor offenses like accidental assaults result in pillory confinement lasting several in-game days, damaging your standing in the community.
2. Corporal Punishment
Moderate crimes warrant public beatings that temporarily reduce health and stamina attributes.
3. Criminal Branding
Repeat offenders or perpetrators of serious crimes receive permanent neck markings that trigger merchant boycotts and constant guard surveillance.
4. Capital Punishment
The ultimate penalty awaits those committing heinous acts like multiple murders.
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Reputation Management Strategies
Criminal records affect how entire communities perceive you:
Reputation Dynamics
Settlements track reputation independently, influencing NPC interactions from trade availability to dialogue options. Suspicious guards may conduct frequent searches.
Redeem your standing through charitable donations, completing favors, or paying outstanding fines – similar to the honor system in *Red Dead Redemption 2*.
Criminal Activity Avoidance Tactics
While the system accommodates criminal playstyles, consider these precautions:
- Verify surroundings for potential witnesses
- Change disguises immediately after committing crimes
- Utilize nighttime's concealment advantages
- Sell stolen goods exclusively through shady merchants
These mechanics create an immersive crime-and-punishment experience in *Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2*.