The end of Red Dead Redemption 2 leaves many players with mixed emotions, particularly regarding the transition from Arthur Morgan to John Marston. One common frustration is the change in atmosphere and activities when the game’s focus shifts to John.
The gang’s camp, full of lively interactions and a sense of community, is replaced by the more solitary and mundane life on the ranch, and feels like a downgrade. The rich character interactions and daily routines that made the gang camp feel alive are sorely missed in the quieter ranch setting, making the epilogue somewhat anticlimactic.
Red Dead Redemption 2‘s Epilogue Switch from Arthur to John Leaves a Lot to be Desired
One of the best parts of Arthur’s story is the interaction with fellow gang members. One of Red Dead Redemption 2‘s writers even admitted to avoiding the voice actor for Arthur to preserve their own illusion. Spending time in camp, players enjoy spontaneous conversations and unique character moments that enrich the narrative.
For instance, listening to gang members chat by the campfire or witnessing personal interactions offers a deep sense of immersion. These moments create a living, breathing world in which players become emotionally invested.
Many fans expected to continue enjoying the interactions and vibrant atmosphere of the gang’s camp even after completing Arthur’s story. Instead, they found themselves in a quieter, less interactive environment with John Marston. Players like Reddit user u/Eso Teric420, have expressed regret in not spending more time interacting with the camp while they had the chance.
What was your biggest mistake when you first played the game
byu/gata_flaca inRDR2
A major complaint among players who finished Red Dead Redemption 2 is the anticlimactic nature of John’s ranch. The lively camp, filled with characters and daily routines, contrasts starkly with the quiet, isolated ranch life. This shift makes the chores feel pointless and the abundant money you’ve hoarded as Arthur seems excessive.
Players Bonded With Arthur and the Gang Throughout the Game
Red Dead Redemption 2‘s design choices in the epilogue led many players to restart the game, seeking to relive the rich experiences of Arthur’s journey. For some, this meant spending more time at camp and discovering new dialogues and interactions they missed during their first playthrough. Others appreciated the freedom to roam and hunt without the constraints of the storyline.
Another point of contention is the sheer amount of money players get by the endgame, which renders many activities pointless. In the gang camp, managing resources and contributing to the community pot are parts of the gameplay. When players reach the ranch, they often have more money than they can spend, and there’s less incentive to engage in chores or further exploration.
Additionally, some players find the epilogue missions underwhelming compared to the main storyline. While the journey with Arthur Morgan is filled with emotional highs and lows, the epilogue missions with John Marston lack the same intensity and sense of urgency.
Ultimately, Red Dead Redemption 2‘s endgame leaves a mixed legacy. And with rumors of a third installment to the series, fans could get an even more improved experience in the future. While the game is celebrated for its storytelling, characters, and immersive world, the transition to John Marston’s quieter life left many players feeling unsatisfied.
The contrast between the vibrant gang camp and the isolated ranch shows the importance of giving players a sense of community and purpose when there is an opportunity to do so.
