Does Arthur Morgan Always Get Tuberculosis in Red Dead Redemption 2?

Yes, in the main storyline of Red Dead Redemption 2 (RDR2), Arthur Morgan inevitably contracts tuberculosis (TB) and succumbs to the disease by the game’s conclusion. There is no way to cure or prevent Arthur from getting TB if you progress through the core narrative. His illness is a critical plot point and a driving force behind his character development and eventual demise.

The Inevitable Fate of Arthur Morgan

While the vast world of Red Dead Redemption 2 is open to free exploration and countless side activities, Arthur’s core narrative is fixed. The contraction of TB, after a confrontation with Thomas Downes at the Downes Ranch, is a non-negotiable event woven into the fabric of the game. Even if a player delays visiting Downes, or alters their in-game actions, Arthur’s fate remains the same. This inevitability is a testament to the game’s powerful storytelling, forcing players to confront the harsh realities of the late 19th-century American West.

The disease progresses over time, impacting Arthur’s physical abilities and forcing him to confront his own mortality. This allows players to witness a profound shift in Arthur’s perspective, leading to moments of introspection, redemption, and a renewed focus on helping those around him, particularly John Marston.

Exploring the “Loophole”

While a cure is impossible, there is a “loophole” – stopping story progression altogether. By never triggering the mission where Arthur interacts with Thomas Downes, players can technically prevent him from contracting TB. However, this means forgoing the vast majority of the game’s story content, effectively freezing Arthur in time before his fateful encounter.

FAQs: Arthur Morgan and Tuberculosis in RDR2

Here are frequently asked questions regarding Arthur Morgan, tuberculosis, and the implications within Red Dead Redemption 2.

Can Arthur avoid getting TB?

No. Assuming you are progressing through the main storyline, Arthur will inevitably contract tuberculosis after interacting with Thomas Downes. It is an unavoidable and integral part of the story. There is no “cure” or way to prevent it.

How did Arthur contract tuberculosis?

Arthur contracts tuberculosis from Thomas Downes, a farmer he shakes down for debt money. During the encounter at Downes Ranch, Thomas coughs blood directly into Arthur’s face, exposing him to the disease.

Can you kill Thomas Downes to prevent Arthur from getting sick?

No. Even if you attempt to kill Thomas Downes, either during the mission or after, he is unkillable until the story allows him to die. Eliminating him early will not prevent Arthur’s infection.

How long does Arthur live after contracting TB?

The game provides a timeframe of approximately 3-6 months between Arthur’s diagnosis and his death. This period allows for the progression of the story, as well as Arthur’s physical decline.

Did anyone else in the gang get TB from Arthur?

For narrative reasons, Arthur is the only member of the Van der Linde gang who contracts TB. While the game doesn’t explicitly explain why others weren’t infected, it’s likely due to story constraints. Realistically, given the close proximity within the gang, it would have been highly probable for the disease to spread.

Did Dutch know Arthur was sick?

Dutch witnesses Arthur’s declining health, but either ignores it due to his own increasing paranoia and obsession with his plans, or simply dismisses it. He is too consumed by his own agenda to genuinely care for Arthur’s well-being.

How old was Arthur when he died?

Arthur Morgan dies at the age of 35 or 36 from complications related to tuberculosis.

Can tuberculosis be cured in the game’s time period?

In the late 19th century, tuberculosis was a devastating and often fatal disease with no effective cure. This historical context adds weight to Arthur’s situation and underscores the grim realities of the time.

Does Arthur’s gameplay change after he gets sick?

Yes. After contracting TB, Arthur’s gameplay is noticeably affected. He experiences persistent coughing, reduced stamina, health, and dead eye cores, reflecting his deteriorating physical condition. Furthermore, his aiming can be harder to manage and his crosshair swings a lot, even in dead eye.

Can you play as Arthur after he dies?

No. After Arthur’s death, the game transitions to playing as John Marston. There are no official ways to continue playing as Arthur Morgan beyond reverting to an earlier save point before his death.

What carries over to John Marston after Arthur’s death?

Many items carry over to John Marston, including weapons, outfits, kit items, trinkets, talismans, valuables, and documents. Character progress, such as known recipes and completed challenges, also transfers, although core stat progress is reduced.

Is it better to play as Arthur or John?

This is subjective. Arthur is often considered a more complex and nuanced character, while John is more aligned with classic Western archetypes. Both offer unique gameplay experiences and contribute significantly to the overall narrative. Ultimately, the preferred character is a matter of personal preference.

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

Many players believe that a healthy Arthur would have had a significant advantage against Micah. Arthur was physically strong and a skilled fighter. His illness severely weakened him, contributing to his defeat.

Why does Arthur cough so much after getting TB?

The persistent coughing is a realistic symptom of tuberculosis. It reflects the damage the disease inflicts on Arthur’s lungs, making it increasingly difficult for him to breathe.

What is the significance of Arthur contracting TB in the game?

Arthur’s illness serves as a catalyst for his character arc. It forces him to confront his own mortality and reassess his values. His journey towards redemption becomes more profound as he grapples with his impending death, impacting his relationships with other characters and shaping the game’s overall themes of morality and legacy. It’s a powerful example of how games can explore complex emotions and philosophical questions, a topic often explored by the Games Learning Society. Visit GamesLearningSociety.org to learn more.