Does Arthur Have to Get TB in RDR2? The Unavoidable Fate and Its Implications
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Yes, unfortunately, Arthur Morgan’s contraction of tuberculosis (TB) is a fixed plot point in Red Dead Redemption 2. Regardless of your choices, actions, or playstyle, Arthur will inevitably contract TB after a mission involving Thomas Downes. There is no way to avoid this fate within the game’s narrative structure. The question isn’t if Arthur gets TB, but rather how his illness shapes the rest of the story and the player’s experience.
The game developers at Rockstar Games made a deliberate narrative choice to give Arthur TB, and it profoundly impacts the themes and the emotional weight of the game. Understanding the unavoidable nature of this event allows players to prepare for the changes in gameplay and appreciate the storytelling.
Understanding Arthur’s Inevitable Fate
The Narrative Significance of TB
Arthur’s tuberculosis isn’t merely a random ailment; it’s a critical element in his character arc. It forces him to confront his mortality and re-evaluate his life choices. As his physical health deteriorates, Arthur’s moral compass begins to shift. He starts questioning Dutch’s leadership and contemplating the true meaning of loyalty and redemption. The disease serves as a catalyst for his personal growth.
Gameplay Mechanics Affected by TB
The onset of TB has several impacts on gameplay:
- Core Drain: Arthur’s core stats, like health, stamina, and Dead Eye, drain much faster.
- Reduced Benefits: Food and tonics provide less significant buffs.
- Visual and Audio Cues: Arthur coughs frequently, and his physical appearance changes, reflecting his deteriorating health.
- Limited Activities: Certain activities become more challenging due to Arthur’s weakened state.
These changes create a palpable sense of urgency and reinforce the narrative of Arthur’s declining health. While frustrating at times, these limitations serve to immerse the player more deeply into Arthur’s plight.
Exploring Alternative Scenarios: A ‘What If?’
The fact that Arthur’s fate is predetermined raises many questions for players. What if Arthur never contracted TB? What if he could have been cured? While these questions are intriguing, they ultimately highlight the power of the narrative choice that Rockstar made. The game wouldn’t be the same without this tragic element.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Arthur’s TB
1. Can I cure Arthur’s tuberculosis in Red Dead Redemption 2?
No. There is no cure for Arthur’s tuberculosis within the game’s mechanics. The doctor explicitly states that it is incurable, reinforcing the game’s historical accuracy and tragic narrative.
2. Does Arthur getting TB affect the ending of Red Dead Redemption 2?
Yes, Arthur’s TB is a driving force in the narrative leading to the ending. The game’s storyline wouldn’t be the same without this tragic element.
3. Is there any way to avoid the mission where Arthur contracts TB?
Unfortunately, no. The mission involving Thomas Downes is a mandatory part of the main storyline, and it is where Arthur contracts the disease. There’s no way to progress in the game without completing this mission.
4. Does Arthur’s honor level affect his TB or its symptoms?
No, Arthur’s honor level does not affect the fact that he has TB or the severity of its symptoms. While honor impacts other aspects of the game, TB is a fixed story element.
5. Will my actions in the game change how Arthur’s TB progresses?
No, Arthur’s TB will always progress in the same way.
6. Could Arthur have defeated Micah if he didn’t have TB?
It is possible that Arthur’s weakened state contributed to his inability to defeat Micah during their final confrontation. However, Micah’s ruthlessness and fighting skills also played a significant role. It’s a complex scenario, and Arthur’s TB was undoubtedly a disadvantage.
7. How long does Arthur have TB for in Red Dead Redemption 2?
Arthur is diagnosed with TB roughly halfway through the game’s story. A reasonable estimate for the total amount of time that Arthur was sick in RDR2 is around 3-6 months.
8. Does Arthur getting TB affect gameplay?
Once this mission is completed, Arthur will be sick with tuberculosis for the remainder of his playthrough, which will increase the core draining speed by 20%. He will also gain a limited amount of benefits from food and drinks, resulting in only coughing and a pop-up reminder of being sick if he has too much.
9. Why didn’t other gang members catch TB from Arthur?
The lack of TB transmission to other characters is a point of contention among players. While the game doesn’t explicitly address this, it’s possible that the developers prioritized narrative impact over strict realism. It could also be argued that other characters possessed stronger immune systems, or that Arthur’s infection wasn’t always contagious.
10. What were the historical treatments for TB during that time period?
In the late 19th century, treatments for TB were limited and often ineffective. They typically involved rest, fresh air, a nutritious diet, and sometimes experimental therapies. Sanatoriums were common places for TB patients to seek treatment.
11. Does the “Owl Feather Trinket” cure Arthur’s TB?
No, the Owl Feather Trinket does not cure TB. It provides a passive bonus to Arthur’s stamina and helps slow down core drain, but it doesn’t eliminate or reverse the effects of the disease.
12. Is Arthur mentioned in Red Dead Redemption (RDR1)?
No, Arthur is not mentioned in Red Dead Redemption. This absence has led to much speculation and fan theories, suggesting various reasons why John Marston and other characters don’t discuss Arthur.
13. What is the significance of Arthur contracting TB from Thomas Downes?
Arthur contracted TB from Thomas Downes during the initial interaction where Arthur shakes down Thomas. This event adds layers of complexity to Arthur’s character arc, forcing him to confront his own actions and consider their impact on others.
14. Did Dutch know Arthur was sick?
While Dutch likely noticed Arthur’s declining health, his preoccupation with his own plans and his increasing paranoia prevented him from truly acknowledging the severity of Arthur’s condition.
15. Are there any fan theories or alternative interpretations of Arthur’s TB?
Numerous fan theories exist, ranging from speculation about potential cures to interpretations of the disease as a metaphor for the decline of the Wild West. The ambiguity surrounding certain aspects of the story encourages players to engage in creative analysis and discussion. Learning about these narratives and storytelling is why it is important to understand the impact that games have. Check out Games Learning Society at GamesLearningSociety.org for more information.
Embracing the Narrative, Despite the Tragedy
While Arthur’s fate may be predetermined, the player still has agency in how they navigate his final journey. Focusing on completing side missions, exploring the open world, and building relationships with other characters can provide a sense of purpose and meaning in the face of adversity.
Arthur’s tragic story is a testament to the power of video game narratives. By understanding the game’s themes and embracing the emotional impact of Arthur’s fate, players can experience a truly unforgettable and profound gaming experience.