Can You Avoid Arthur’s Death in Red Dead Redemption 2? A Definitive Guide

No, you cannot avoid Arthur Morgan’s death in Red Dead Redemption 2. His contracting tuberculosis and eventual demise are integral to the game’s narrative and thematic core. While you can prolong his existence by halting story progression, you cannot alter the ultimate outcome. This article dives into the intricacies of Arthur’s fate and answers frequently asked questions surrounding this poignant aspect of the game.

The Inevitability of Arthur’s End

Red Dead Redemption 2 is a story about mortality, redemption, and the decline of the Wild West. Arthur Morgan’s journey is central to these themes. He is a character caught between his loyalty to a fading way of life and a growing awareness of its moral bankruptcy. His illness serves as a catalyst for his personal growth and forces him to confront his past.

Arthur contracts tuberculosis (TB) from Thomas Downes while collecting a debt. This event, unavoidable within the narrative structure, sets in motion a chain of events that lead to his eventual death. The game mechanics and storyline are deliberately designed to make this outcome unchangeable.

While some players have explored the possibility of glitching or modding the game to circumvent Arthur’s death, these methods are often unreliable and can compromise the integrity of the gaming experience. Furthermore, they do not change the core narrative; they merely delay the inevitable.

Why Arthur’s Death is Essential

The narrative impact of Arthur’s death cannot be overstated. It serves several crucial functions:

• Character Development: Arthur’s illness and the realization of his mortality lead to significant changes in his character. He becomes more introspective, compassionate, and focused on helping those he cares about, particularly John Marston.
• Thematic Resonance: Arthur’s death reinforces the game’s themes of mortality, the futility of resisting change, and the importance of finding meaning in life.
• Passing the Torch: Arthur’s sacrifice allows John Marston to escape the outlaw life and build a better future for his family. This transition connects Red Dead Redemption 2 to the original Red Dead Redemption, creating a cohesive narrative arc.
• Emotional Impact: Arthur’s death is one of the most emotionally resonant moments in gaming history. It leaves a lasting impression on players and encourages reflection on the themes explored in the game.

Attempting to avoid Arthur’s death would undermine these crucial narrative elements and diminish the overall impact of the game.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Arthur’s Fate

Can Arthur’s TB be avoided altogether?

No. Arthur catches TB during the “Money Lending and Other Sins III” mission when collecting a debt from Thomas Downes. This mission is mandatory for story progression. Avoiding it means you cannot complete the game.

How do you keep Arthur healthy in RDR2?

Maintaining a balanced diet will keep Arthur at a healthy weight. Eat regularly, aiming for a weight between “bulky” and “scrawny”. Avoid excessive eating or starvation to manage Arthur’s size effectively.

Can you free roam as Arthur after beating RDR2?

No. You cannot free roam as Arthur after the epilogue without using mods. The storyline dictates that John Marston becomes the playable character after Arthur’s death.

Will I lose all my horses when Arthur dies?

Yes. All horses owned by Arthur are lost upon his death, including special horses like Buell, if you obtained him from Hamish Sinclair’s missions. There is no way to transfer ownership to John Marston within the game’s mechanics.

What Happens If You DON’T Go Visit Thomas Downes In Red Dead Redemption 2?

You cannot progress the main storyline. Visiting Thomas Downes is part of a mandatory mission chain, and refusing to do so will halt your progress through the game.

What do I lose after Arthur dies?

After a few missions in the epilogue, you will receive Arthur’s outfits, clothes, and weapons. However, all horses are permanently lost. Some crafted items and certain valuables might also not carry over.

Will there be a rdr3?

While nothing is confirmed, Rockstar Games has hinted at the possibility of a Red Dead Redemption 3 in the future. If we look at release patterns, expect Red Dead Redemption 3 in 2026 at the earliest.

Can you save Arthur from dying?

Sadly, the short answer is no. Arthur Morgan is destined to die, either due to Micah or, if you have high honor, to tuberculosis.

Can you let Arthur live?

Unfortunately, you cannot change the main story. Part of the Red Dead Redemption 2 storyline entails Arthur getting sick.

Can you cure Arthur’s tuberculosis?

It is impossible to cure Arthur’s tuberculosis within the game. The story is crafted in a way that makes it terminal, with no available cures or remedies.

Would Healthy Arthur beat Micah?

Yes. A healthy Arthur would likely defeat Micah. Arthur was physically stronger and a more skilled fighter. His illness significantly weakened him during their final encounter.

Is it better to be good or bad in RDR2?

The choice between good and bad depends on your preferred playstyle. High honor makes the game easier, with discounts and easier interactions, while low honor offers a challenging, outlaw-focused experience.

Why did Dutch betray Arthur?

Dutch did not necessarily betray Arthur in the traditional sense. Dutch’s increasingly erratic behavior and paranoia led him to distrust Arthur and prioritize Micah’s influence, ultimately contributing to the gang’s downfall.

What triggers Arthur’s TB?

Arthur’s TB is triggered during the “Money Lending and Other Sins III” mission when he contracts it from Thomas Downes.

Can you get a happy ending in RDR2?

While Arthur’s ending is tragic, choosing to help John Marston provides the most honorable and hopeful conclusion, allowing John to escape the outlaw life and start anew. You can have a happy “ending” after the original story arc is over.

The Beauty in Tragedy: Accepting Arthur’s Fate

Red Dead Redemption 2 is a masterpiece not just because of its gameplay and open world but because of its compelling narrative and characters. Arthur’s death is a pivotal moment that underscores the game’s themes of mortality, redemption, and the changing landscape of the American West.

While the desire to change Arthur’s fate is understandable, accepting his death allows you to fully appreciate the game’s narrative depth and emotional impact. Arthur’s legacy lives on through John Marston, and his sacrifice paves the way for a new beginning.

To learn more about the impact of gaming on individuals and society, visit the Games Learning Society website at GamesLearningSociety.org. It explores how games can be used for education, research, and positive social change.