Can Arthur Morgan Avoid Death in Red Dead Redemption 2? The Definitive Answer
The burning question on every Red Dead Redemption 2 player’s mind, and likely the source of much online debate, is: Can Arthur Morgan avoid his inevitable demise? The straightforward answer, and one that might be heartbreaking for some, is a resounding no. No matter how skilled you are, how carefully you play, or what choices you make, Arthur’s death is an unchangeable plot point. It’s a core element of the narrative and is meticulously woven into the fabric of the game. This isn’t a case of player choice leading to different endings; Arthur’s story, tragically, ends with his death. The game makes sure of it.
The Inescapable Tuberculosis
How Arthur Contracts the Disease
Arthur’s fate is sealed by his contraction of tuberculosis. This isn’t a random event; it’s a crucial part of the storyline. He gets infected during a mission where he is forced to collect a debt from Thomas Downes. A violent encounter leads to Downes coughing blood into Arthur’s mouth and face, a moment clearly depicting the transfer of the deadly illness.
Why You Can’t Avoid It
Many players have attempted to circumvent this moment. They’ve tried to avoid the mission, tried to complete the mission in a different way, and tried to find a way to kill or avoid Downes altogether. However, the game’s design prevents any form of escape. Even if you were to somehow accomplish the mission earlier than the narrative intends, Arthur will still cough as a symptom, meaning the illness is inevitable regardless of order of gameplay. It is impossible to stop Arthur from getting tuberculosis. His declining health is a progressive part of the narrative and sets the stage for the game’s final act.
The Final Confrontation and Arthur’s End
The Micah Conflict
Beyond the tuberculosis, Arthur’s death also stems from a complex web of betrayals and conflicts. He becomes aware of Micah’s manipulations and the disintegration of the Van der Linde gang. The showdown between them becomes a pivotal moment, marking the end of Arthur’s journey. If you have high honor, Arthur succumbs to his injuries and disease peacefully while watching the sunrise. With low honor, Micah executes him directly. Either way, Arthur’s life concludes there.
The Story’s Conclusion
The narrative isn’t about avoiding death, but rather about Arthur’s redemption and the legacy he leaves behind. His death, while tragic, serves as a powerful and emotional culmination of his character arc. It is this finality that allows the story of Red Dead Redemption 2 to have the significant impact that it has on its players.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Arthur’s Death
1. Is it possible to prevent Arthur from getting TB by avoiding the Downes mission?
No. The tuberculosis storyline is a fixed part of the game’s narrative. Even if you attempt to skip the mission or encounter Downes earlier, Arthur will inevitably contract the disease.
2. Can I use in-game items to cure Arthur’s tuberculosis?
While certain items, like the Owl Feather Trinket, can alleviate some symptoms, there is no cure for Arthur’s tuberculosis. It’s a progressive illness that will ultimately lead to his death.
3. Does Arthur’s honor level change how he dies?
Yes. A high-honor Arthur will die peacefully while watching the sunrise. A low-honor Arthur will be executed by Micah.
4. Does Arthur admit he’s afraid of death in the game?
Yes. At several points in the game, Arthur admits he’s afraid to die, showcasing his vulnerability as a character.
5. Do you lose all of Arthur’s possessions when he dies?
When you transition to the epilogue as John Marston, you retrieve Arthur’s guns, clothing, and other personal items, but his money and provisions are gone.
6. What happens to Mary Linton after Arthur dies?
After Arthur’s passing, Mary Linton eventually marries another man, Barry Linton, who dies, leaving her a poor widow. Mary and Arthur do cross paths again, however they do not rekindle their romance.
7. Can you kill Thomas Downes before he infects Arthur?
No, despite many attempts and theories, it’s not possible to kill Thomas Downes in the game. His role is to be the source of Arthur’s infection.
8. Can Lenny Summers be saved from dying?
No, Lenny’s death during the Saint Denis bank robbery mission is unavoidable, regardless of gameplay choices. It’s another fixed plot point.
9. Why does Dutch eventually betray Arthur?
Dutch’s betrayal is a result of Micah’s manipulation and Dutch’s own growing paranoia. He believes Arthur’s doubts are detrimental to the group.
10. What happens if Arthur doesn’t eat in RDR2?
A malnourished Arthur will experience increased stamina but reduced resilience, his cores will drain faster, and he will look skinny.
11. Is there any sex or nudity in Red Dead Redemption 2?
While the game has mature themes, there is no explicit sex or nudity. There are however some scenes that involve one of Arthur’s former lovers.
12. How do you get the secret ending in RDR2?
To unlock a “secret” ending, you need to complete a long list of tasks, including finishing all stranger missions, finding every collectible, hunting every animal, and discovering every point of interest.
13. Will there be a Red Dead Redemption 3?
While there are hints and teases from Rockstar Games, there has been no official announcement. Speculation points towards a potential release after 2026.
14. What time period is Red Dead Redemption 2 set in?
RDR2 takes place in the year 1899, focusing on the decline of the Wild West and the struggles of outlaws.
15. Why did Micah spare Arthur?
There is no explicit in-game dialogue that explains why Micah spares Arthur. It’s likely that it was a combination of attempting to evade lawmen, or that he was too angry to focus on killing Arthur at that time.