10 Tough Truths Every Fan Must Acknowledge Before Red Dead Redemption 3 Releases

The captivating universe of Red Dead Redemption is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, intricate characters, and its vivid portrayal of the American frontier. The franchise has garnered a massive fan base, compelling players to carefully scrutinize every aspect of the games while engaging in lively debates over theories and interpretations of the narrative. Yet, sometimes, enthusiasts can become so enamored with a game that they overlook certain uncomfortable truths that challenge their perspectives.

This phenomenon is a ubiquitous aspect of fan culture; it’s about coming to terms with the complex realities embedded within our favorite stories. Embracing the multifaceted nature of the Red Dead series provides a more nuanced understanding. This reflection does not detract from the brilliance of the games or discourage passion but encourages dialogue that acknowledges the limitations and difficult truths that coexist with masterful storytelling. Just as Arthur’s family story reveals painful realities, so too must we confront the less glamorous aspects of this beloved franchise.

10 The Strange Man Will Probably Never Be Revealed

We’ll Never Truly Know Who He Is

Fans of the enigmatic Strange Man in Red Dead Redemption should temper their anticipation for a definitive revelation regarding his identity. Although there is a strong possibility that this character will return in RDR3, his purpose is to remain an enigma, fostering contemplation about morality, fate, and the human condition rather than presenting a clear label, such as good or evil. Attempting to fully identify him may undermine the depth he symbolizes.

The theories and debates perpetuated by fans only heighten the intrigue surrounding the game, benefiting the developers. It’s quite likely that Rockstar will maintain this ambiguity regarding the Strange Man’s identity.

9 John And Arthur Were Murderers and Robbers That Needed To Get Punished

They Were the Worst of the Worst

To truly grasp the essence of Red Dead Redemption, it is imperative to acknowledge that John Marston and Arthur Morgan are indeed murderers and robbers who must face the repercussions of their actions. While the narrative artfully displays their loyalty and occasional kindness, it does not erase the fact that they operated outside the law, perpetrating violence and causing significant harm to others.

Romanticizing their lives as mere rebels against authority neglects the devastation they brought upon others. Both characters’ endings—John’s ultimate sacrifice and Arthur’s tragic demise—serve as poignant reminders that the consequences of violence are an inescapable reality. The tales told throughout the games are not endorsements of their outlaw existence but rather sobering reflections on the inevitable fallout of their violent choices.

8 Jack’s Lifetime Is Too Close To the Industrial Revolution To Be a Protagonist

The Old West Would Be Dead In RDR3

Jack Marston’s life is set against the backdrop of the late 1800s and early 1900s, a period that is just too close to the Industrial Revolution to position him as the central character in Red Dead Redemption 3. This era lacks the adventurous essence vital to the franchise, as the Industrial Revolution fundamentally transformed societal structures, introducing heightened governmental authority, new technologies, and the decline of the classic cowboy lifestyle.

As an adult in this rapidly evolving landscape, Jack’s challenges are vastly different—confronting bureaucracy, social pressures, and a redefined sense of justice rather than wrestling with nature or adhering to old codes. Although his narrative could still captivate, it would likely lack the same sense of freedom and escapism that earlier titles provided.

7 Dutch Was Never Going To Get The Gang To Tahiti

There Would Never Be A Final Plan

Dutch van der Linde’s aspiration of relocating to Tahiti exemplifies mere fantasy rather than a viable strategy. It served as a semblance of control over a disintegrating gang. His notions of an escape were not grounded in reality but were instead driven by ego and an inability to recognize the changing circumstances around him.

Due to their reckless criminal undertakings and ever-increasing notoriety, a quiet getaway was virtually impossible. The persistent pursuit by the Pinkertons made any serene exit unlikely, especially since they lacked both a robust plan and tended to act without caution. Moreover, Dutch’s growing volatility and erratic choices exacerbated the hurdles, hindering their chances of successfully amassing the resources needed for a well-structured escape.

6 Andrew Milton and Edgar Ross Were Just Doing Their Jobs

They’re The Law, After All

Working for the Pinkerton National Detective Agency, Andrew Milton and Edgar Ross were fulfilling their duties when hired by the wealthy Leviticus Cornwall. Their primary objective was to dismantle the Van der Linde gang, notorious for their involvement in an array of illegal enterprises including theft, murder, and extortion. As private detectives, they wielded the authority to investigate and pursue those suspected of criminal activity within the scope of Red Dead Redemption.

While Milton and Ross often resorted to harsh tactics, their actions were propelled by contractual obligations rather than personal vendettas. They perceived the gang as a substantial threat to societal stability and economic security. Acknowledging their motivations sheds light on their methods, although the morality of their approach remains contentious.

5 Undead Nightmare 2 Seems Highly Unlikely

Rockstar Seems To Have Changed Its Focus

Developing a high-quality DLC like Undead Nightmare demands significant resources, including new gameplay elements, narratives, and a vibrant world teeming with undead. However, with limited financial incentives, Rockstar appears more reluctant to invest the necessary time and capital into crafting another expansive single-player expansion.

4 Red Dead Online Won’t Make A Comeback Until The Next Game

Rockstar Is Too Focused On GTA Online & GTA 6

For Red Dead Online to experience a significant resurgence, it likely needs to wait until the launch of Red Dead Redemption 3. The reasoning behind this lies in Rockstar’s decisively redirected focus toward Grand Theft Auto Online and their ongoing efforts to develop GTA 6, leaving little room for updates or support for Red Dead Online.

Despite the game’s intricate world, the gameplay mechanics have lagged behind. The pacing is plodding, and the lack of engaging new content fosters a repetitive grind, detracting from real exploration and role-playing opportunities. Addressing these shortcomings would require substantial reform, which seems implausible given Rockstar’s current emphasis on the Grand Theft Auto series.

3 Dutch’s Gang Were Outlaws, and Micah Bell Should Have Ratted Them Out

A Snitch Is A Hero In This Case

Dutch van der Linde’s gang is often idealized as champions of freedom; however, they are fundamentally criminals culpable of violent theft and murder. Their motivations stem not from altruism but from a skewed ideology. Their destructive behavior instilled fear in communities, masquerading as resistance against a flawed system within the context of Red Dead Redemption.

Dutch’s infatuation with his illusory ideals led to perilous circumstances that endangered his followers. In this context, Micah Bell’s betrayal emerges as a justified act, as he recognized the gang’s flaws and the inevitability of their downfall. His choice to leave and prioritize self-preservation, while morally complex, becomes comprehensible when viewed against the backdrop of the gang’s destructive trajectory.

2 Uncle Was Not Red Harlow

It Would’ve Been A Cool Idea Though

While the theory suggesting that Uncle from Red Dead Redemption and Red Dead Redemption 2 is actually Red Harlow from Red Dead Revolver is intriguing, it ultimately lacks strong supporting evidence. Although they both inhabit the same narrative universe, their timelines and characteristics do not align sufficiently to confirm their identity as the same individual. Uncle is noted to have been born prior to 1849, whereas Red Harlow likely emerged in the subsequent decades.

Additionally, Uncle’s absence of distinctive facial scars or the iconic scorpion tattoo found on Red Harlow further disproves this notion. Furthermore, Red Dead Revolver appears to exist in an alternate universe compared to the main storyline, suggesting that mentions of Red Harlow serve as playful homages rather than proof of an association between the two characters.

1 Sadie And Charles Will End Up Hanging If They Don’t Change Their Ways

These Two Could Be In Danger In RDR3

Despite their good intentions and formidable abilities, Sadie Adler and Charles Smith are on a perilous trajectory that could lead to a tragic conclusion if they do not alter their course in Red Dead Redemption 3. Fueled by a thirst for vengeance, Sadie frequently places herself in grave danger, potentially culminating in deadly encounters with either criminals or law enforcement.

Charles, though more cautious, remains entangled in crime and violence. His unwavering sense of justice often places him in danger while he strives to protect his allies and assist those in distress. However noble these instincts may be, they could just as easily result in his capture or demise. If both do not find a pathway to reform and abandon the cycle of violence, their futures appear grim, steeped in the potential for tragedy in the forthcoming chapter of the series.

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