Can I Stop Arthur Morgan from Getting TB in Red Dead Redemption 2?

The short answer is a resounding no. Arthur Morgan’s contraction of tuberculosis is a pivotal plot point in Red Dead Redemption 2, and there’s no way to completely prevent it within the game’s narrative structure. It’s an unavoidable part of Arthur’s character arc, driving much of the story’s emotional weight and thematic exploration. The game is intricately designed to ensure Arthur’s fate is sealed, regardless of player choices.

Why Can’t Arthur’s TB Be Avoided?

Story Integration

The development team deliberately integrated Arthur’s illness into the core narrative. It serves as a catalyst for his personal growth, moral reckoning, and eventual sacrifice. Removing this element would fundamentally alter the game’s intended emotional impact.

Mission Design

Even attempts to circumvent the inciting incident – the encounter with Thomas Downes – prove futile. Dialogue, plot progression, and even Arthur’s coughing animations are triggered irrespective of the order in which you complete missions. The game anticipates attempts to avoid the Downes Ranch and preemptively seeds signs of the illness.

Limited Player Agency

While Red Dead Redemption 2 offers a vast open world and numerous choices, certain aspects of the story are rigidly enforced. Arthur’s TB falls into this category, demonstrating that player agency, however extensive, has limitations when it comes to critical narrative beats.

Alternative Approaches and the Illusion of Control

While outright prevention is impossible, there are a few ways players try to mitigate the experience, albeit without true success:

Pausing Progression

Some players opt to remain in earlier chapters, before Arthur’s diagnosis, to extend the time they can play as a healthy version of the character. However, this simply postpones the inevitable and prevents access to later game content.

Roleplaying and Immersion

Focusing on roleplaying a virtuous Arthur, maximizing honor, and engaging in positive interactions can provide a sense of control and influence over Arthur’s final days, even if his physical fate is sealed.

Accepting the Narrative

Ultimately, many players find acceptance in the narrative, embracing Arthur’s journey and finding meaning in his struggle against the disease and his efforts toward redemption. Understanding the narrative design enriches the appreciation of the game’s complex story.

Red Dead Redemption 2: Tuberculosis FAQs

What is the first sign of Arthur’s TB?

The first obvious sign is a persistent cough, often triggered during missions or cutscenes after the encounter with Thomas Downes. Subtle signs, such as decreased stamina, may appear earlier, but the cough is the most prominent indicator.

How does Arthur contract TB in the game?

Arthur contracts tuberculosis by being splattered with blood from the sick Thomas Downes at his ranch when Arthur collects debts.

Can Arthur spread TB to other characters?

The game doesn’t explicitly depict Arthur spreading the disease to other members of the gang. However, the narrative acknowledges the unlikelihood of him not infecting others given the close living quarters and physical proximity within the camp.

How long does Arthur live after contracting TB?

A reasonable estimate suggests Arthur lives for approximately 3-6 months in-game after contracting TB.

Can medicine cure Arthur’s TB in Red Dead 2?

No, there is no cure for tuberculosis in the game. Potions and tonics may temporarily alleviate symptoms, but they do not alter the course of the disease.

Does Dutch acknowledge Arthur’s illness?

While Dutch sees Arthur is sick, he is consumed by his own obsessions and rarely acknowledges the severity of Arthur’s condition or offers genuine support. This further highlights Dutch’s descent into madness and self-absorption.

Does Arthur get weaker as the disease progresses?

Yes, Arthur progressively weakens as the TB advances. This is reflected in his stamina, health, and overall physical performance. His coughing also becomes more frequent and severe.

How does Arthur’s TB affect the gameplay?

Arthur’s TB significantly impacts gameplay by reducing his stamina, health, and ability to perform strenuous activities. It also influences his interactions with other characters and the overall tone of the game.

What is the “Fork in the Road” mission and its significance?

The “Fork in the Road” mission is in Chapter 5 and involves Arthur acquiring an item that permanently reduces core drain speed by 15%, which negates the effects of being sick.

Are there mods that can cure Arthur’s TB?

While mods exist that alter various aspects of the game, including Arthur’s health, modding can be unstable. It can affect the game’s system.

Is there a way to skip the Downes Ranch mission?

No, skipping the Downes Ranch mission is not possible. The game’s narrative structure mandates that Arthur encounters Thomas Downes, leading to his infection.

Does John Marston inherit Arthur’s belongings after his death?

John inherits Arthur’s guns, clothing, and other essential items. However, Arthur’s money and provisions disappear, which ensures John’s starting point aligns with his circumstances in the epilogue.

Could Arthur have defeated Micah if he wasn’t sick?

It’s highly plausible that a healthy Arthur could have defeated Micah more easily. The TB significantly weakened him, impacting his stamina and strength during their final confrontation.

Why does Hosea cough in Red Dead Redemption 2?

Hosea’s coughing suggests he suffered from some form of lung disease, potentially a chronic condition that weakened him throughout the game. This serves as foreshadowing of the dangers of the era and the fragility of life.

Will there be a Red Dead Redemption 3?

While nothing is confirmed, speculation suggests that Red Dead Redemption 3 may appear as early as 2026. Rockstar Games has hinted at future installments in the franchise, leaving fans hopeful for a continuation of the Red Dead saga. The Games Learning Society may have insights into the evolving landscape of game development and storytelling, as they explore the intersection of gaming and education. Check out GamesLearningSociety.org for more information.

The narrative constraints within Red Dead Redemption 2 serve a crucial purpose. They compel players to confront mortality and grapple with the complexities of moral choices within a harsh and unforgiving world. Even though the disease and Arthur’s eventual death can be an upsetting experience, it becomes a memorable moment.