How Red Dead Redemption 2 Changes Arthur Morgan With Player Choice

Red Dead Redemption 2 has been hailed by many as one of the best action-adventure games in recent memory, and this is partially due to the sheer realness of the world. There was a lot for Red Dead Redemption 2 to live up to due to the success of its predecessor, but Rockstar brought forth a beautifully crafted story that not only brings some great action, but tugs on the heartstrings. One of the biggest draws Red Dead Redemption 2 has is a compelling story seen through the eyes of its protagonist, Arthur Morgan. Not only is Arthur Morgan a complex and fascinating lead, but players are given a lot of agency in terms of how he progresses in the story. There is a static story arc that must be followed, but there is also a fun emphasis on player choice that offers a unique experience for each playthrough.

Player Choice Greatly Affects Arthur Morgan

Red Dead Redemption 2's story makes it pretty clear that Arthur and the other members of the Van der Linde gang live in a world of moral gray areas. However, the choice of players helps inform Arthur's moral standing within the story, which can greatly affect how his unfortunate end plays out at the end of the game. The game's morality system is well known, but there are even smaller details that showcase just how much freedom players are given when controlling Arthur.

Arthur Morgan's Habits Will Change Him Over Time

Rockstar is well known for its realism, but Red Dead Redemption 2 upped the ante. NPCs seem to have their own daily routines and lives, while weapons degrade and need repairing over time, and that's just the beginning. When it comes to Arthur, the habits players instill in him can actually change him over time. If players feed him too much, he gains weight. If players make him smoke cigarettes, he'll start coughing more frequently. The details in Red Dead Redemption 2 can truly get wild, and this is why the game is still being praised six years later.

Additionally, Arthur's hair and beard will grow over time if not kept up. Of course, the hair growth mechanic has its limits, but players are able to take Arthur's hair growth to crazy lengths by purchasing Hair Tonic. Arthur's hair and facial hair growth is more obvious of a change compared to the likes of cigarettes, causing him to cough, but it's still a good demonstration of how players can influence the character's appearance.

Arthur's Morality and How He Carries Himself

One of the most subtle, but brilliant, differences shown throughout the game depending on the player's choice is how Arthur carries himself. When players make Arthur live more of an outlaw life, which gives him a low honor score, his demeanor and posture become more intimidating, and he looks meaner overall. If Arthur has a higher moral standing in the game, the way he carries himself reflects that as well. Although his fate is sealed by the game's story, Arthur Morgan is surprisingly versatile in personality for a character who stars in a set narrative.

The Unmatched Realism of Red Dead Redemption 2

To this day, Red Dead Redemption 2 offers a truly unique adventure that can still easily go head-to-head with new releases in the genre. The game's balanced blend of realism and well-crafted story continues to make it one of the best games of the 21st century, and the detail that was put into Arthur's daily habits instilled by players is a perfect example of why it's still being talked about. The environment in Red Dead Redemption 2 is so detailed that players often find themselves lost in the sheer beauty and complexity of the world, making every choice feel significant and impactful.

Player-Driven Narrative

The player-driven narrative in Red Dead Redemption 2 means that no two playthroughs are exactly alike. This replayability is another reason why the game remains popular years after its release. Players can choose to be honorable or ruthless, and these choices not only affect Arthur's interactions with other characters but also how the world perceives him. The game masterfully incorporates these choices into the storyline, making each decision feel weighty and consequential.

Arthur's Relationships and Interactions

Arthur's relationships with other members of the Van der Linde gang and NPCs in the world are also influenced by player choice. How players choose to interact with characters like Dutch, John, and Sadie can lead to different dialogues and outcomes, enriching the overall narrative. These interactions add layers of depth to Arthur's character, showcasing the impact of player decisions on his relationships and the story as a whole.

The Legacy of Arthur Morgan

Arthur Morgan's journey is a testament to the power of player agency in video games. His character arc, influenced by the choices players make, leaves a lasting impression, making players reflect on their decisions long after the game is over. Arthur's legacy in the world of Red Dead Redemption 2 is shaped by the player's actions, making him one of the most memorable protagonists in gaming history.

Conclusion

Red Dead Redemption 2 is a game that excels in blending a rich, immersive world with a compelling narrative. The way Arthur Morgan's character evolves based on player choices is a testament to Rockstar's commitment to creating a dynamic and engaging experience. Whether players opt for honor or cruelty, each choice impacts Arthur's journey, crafting a distinct and memorable adventure with every playthrough.