Rep should have a higher impact, like if you're infamous enough any enforce you come across will try to arrest you, (give you a large fine and bring you to the nearest town), or attack you it you refuse, regardless on whether or not you have illegal goods on you, and if you're famous enough, you can't surrender to buccaneers, they'll try to kill you regardless, but if you're famous or infamous enough, the side you're on won't give you any trouble as you pass them. Press + if you agree.