Overview
Outlaw bounties are a repeatable side activity in Crimson Desert that tasks you with tracking down wanted criminals scattered across Pywel. Bounty posters start appearing on bulletin boards and posts in towns during Chapter 2 of the main story. Each poster marks a target on the world map once you read it. Completing bounties earns Silver Coins, Contribution points, and occasionally unique items.
Bounties are closely connected to the Bounty System and Wanted System. While those systems govern your own criminal behavior and the consequences of breaking the law, outlaw bounties put you on the other side: you are the hunter.
How Bounty Notices Work
Bounty notices are displayed on bulletin boards throughout major settlements. They appear as purple letter icons on the minimap. Walk up to a notice and interact with it to add the bounty to your journal. Press CTRL on keyboard or LB/L1 on a controller to read the notice and reveal the target's general location on the world map.
Each bounty notice includes a sketch of the outlaw, a brief description of their crimes, the region where they were last seen, and the reward amounts for capturing them alive versus bringing them in dead.
Capturing Bounties Alive vs. Killing Them
Every outlaw bounty offers two reward tiers. Capturing the target alive pays the full bounty, while killing them yields only half. The difference is significant enough that you should always attempt a live capture when possible.
Live Capture Process
Locate the outlaw in the marked area. They typically blend in with other NPCs or hide near camps.
Approach the target. When they spot you, most outlaws will attempt to flee.
Chase the fleeing outlaw on foot or horseback until you are close enough for a tackle prompt.
Tackle the outlaw by pressing the prompted button.
A confrontation plays out where you can punch the outlaw until the option to tie them up appears.
Tie them up and carry them to your horse. Kliff automatically carries the prisoner while mounted.
Ride to the constabulary in the region listed on the bounty notice to turn them in.
If you accidentally kill the outlaw during the confrontation, you can still turn in the body for the reduced reward.
Known Outlaw Bounties
The following table lists all known outlaw bounties. Rewards vary based on whether you capture the target alive or dead.
Outlaw | Region | Alive Reward | Dead Reward | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
20 Silver Coins | 10 Silver Coins | One of the earliest bounties available | ||
12 Silver Coins + Contribution | 6 Silver Coins | Found near the outskirts of Hernand | ||
Silver Coins + Contribution | Half reward | Relatively easy early bounty | ||
Silver Coins + Contribution | Half reward | May require some searching in the area | ||
Silver Coins + Contribution | Half reward | Check near the marked zone carefully | ||
Silver Coins + Contribution | Half reward | Bounty located in the Demeniss region | ||
Silver Coins + Contribution | Half reward | A tougher outlaw found later in progression | ||
Varies | Silver Coins + Contribution | Half reward | One of the more challenging bounty targets |
Where to Turn in Bounties
You must deliver captured outlaws to the local constabulary in the region specified on the bounty notice. The constabulary is typically located inside or near the town guard station. If you are wanted in that region yourself, be careful. Guards will attempt to arrest you on sight, and you cannot turn in a bounty while being actively pursued. Clear your own wanted status first, or use a Writ of Absolution to remove your bounty before turning in the outlaw.
Tips for Bounty Hunting
Always go for live capture. The reward difference between alive and dead is 2x. This adds up over multiple bounties.
Bring a fast horse. Outlaws often flee, and chasing them on foot wastes stamina. A leveled horse with high speed makes pursuits trivial.
Check bulletin boards after story progression. New bounties unlock as you advance through chapters and visit new regions.
Watch for QTE prompts during tackles. If a guard or the outlaw tackles you, a quick time event plays. Press the correct button within the zone to break free. You get 2 chances per tackle.
Use the bounty for Contribution. Bounty rewards include Contribution points, making them a reliable source of reputation alongside their monetary reward.
Save before difficult bounties. Some outlaws fight back aggressively. Saving beforehand lets you retry if you accidentally kill them.
Bounties and the Law System
Outlaw bounties interact with the broader Law System in Crimson Desert. Capturing bounties is a legal activity and does not incur any criminal penalties. However, be aware that collateral damage during a pursuit (such as hitting civilians or destroying property) can still raise your own wanted level. The safest approach is to isolate the outlaw before engaging.
For more information on how bounties affect your reputation, see the Bounty System and How to Pay Fines and Bounties articles.