How Many Years Passed in Red Dead Redemption 2?

Red Dead Redemption 2 spans approximately 12 years, encompassing the period from 1899 to 1911. This includes the main story set in 1899 and the epilogue, which is set in 1907. The game then briefly shows Jack Marston in 1911, thus covering the years mentioned. The epilogue itself shows around 2-3 years passing as John Marston builds his home and settles down with his family.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Time in RDR2

Here are 15 frequently asked questions concerning the time period and progression of Red Dead Redemption 2, offering deeper insights into the game’s timeline and character arcs.

What year does Red Dead Redemption 2 primarily take place in?

The core narrative of Red Dead Redemption 2 unfolds in 1899. This is a pivotal year marking the decline of the Wild West era as civilization rapidly advances.

How long is the time skip between Arthur’s death and the epilogue?

There’s a significant seven-year time skip between the tragic demise of Arthur Morgan at the end of the main story and the beginning of the epilogue. The epilogue sees John Marston attempting to forge a new life for himself and his family.

Why did Rockstar Games choose this timeframe for RDR2?

Rockstar Games deliberately situated Red Dead Redemption 2 on the cusp of the 20th century to explore themes of change, modernization, and the death of the outlaw era. This era allowed for a powerful narrative about characters struggling to adapt to a rapidly evolving world. The deliberate pacing, which many players noted, underscores the beauty and vastness of the game world.

How old is Arthur Morgan during the events of RDR2?

Arthur Morgan is 36 years old during the main events of Red Dead Redemption 2. He was born in 1863, which highlights his role as a man caught between the old ways and the new world order.

How old is John Marston in RDR2, both during the main story and the epilogue?

During the main story of Red Dead Redemption 2, John Marston is 26 years old. By the time the epilogue rolls around, set in 1907, John is 34 years old, showcasing his growth and maturation after the tumultuous events he experiences.

How does Arthur’s age compare to John’s in RDR2 and RDR1?

Arthur is 10 years older than John during RDR2’s main story. In the original Red Dead Redemption, which takes place in 1911, John is 38, demonstrating that the events of RDR2 precede his journey for redemption in the first game. For further studies of the game, consider visiting GamesLearningSociety.org.

How long does Arthur have tuberculosis (TB) in RDR2?

The timeline of Arthur’s TB is deliberately ambiguous, but it’s generally estimated that he is symptomatic for approximately 3-6 months within the game’s narrative. The disease progresses visibly, impacting his health and appearance.

Can players prevent Arthur from contracting TB?

Unfortunately, the contracting of tuberculosis by Arthur is a pivotal story element and cannot be avoided. It’s integral to his character arc and the overall narrative. Rockstar integrated it into the storyline to provide a compelling emotional experience and deeper exploration of the human condition.

How old is Jack Marston during the story of Red Dead Redemption 2?

Jack Marston is 4 years old at the beginning of Red Dead Redemption 2, as the game starts in 1899. During the epilogue, he ages to about 12 years old. In a brief flash-forward at the very end of the game, the year is 1911 and Jack is 16 years old.

How old is Jack Marston when he avenges his father in Red Dead Redemption?

In the first Red Dead Redemption (set in 1914), when Jack Marston finally avenges his father by killing Edgar Ross, he is 19 years old. This act marks a tragic end to his youth and solidifies the cyclical nature of violence in the Red Dead universe.

Is Micah Bell older than Arthur Morgan?

Yes, Micah Bell is indeed older than Arthur Morgan. Micah is 39 years old, while Arthur is 36 during the main story. Despite this, Micah’s character often appears less mature and more impulsive than Arthur.

How does the timeline of RDR2 connect to the events of Red Dead Redemption?

Red Dead Redemption 2 serves as a prequel to Red Dead Redemption. It establishes the backstories and relationships of key characters, providing context to John Marston’s actions and motivations in the first game. Many loose ends are tied up and backstories established.

What is the significance of the year 1911 in relation to Red Dead Redemption’s timeline?

1911 is the year that Red Dead Redemption begins. It finds John Marston forced by the government to hunt down his former gang members, including Bill Williamson and Javier Escuella. The game explores John’s attempt to escape his past and protect his family.

How does the time period of RDR2 contribute to the overall themes of the game?

The late 1890s setting of Red Dead Redemption 2 perfectly encapsulates the themes of decline, change, and the clash between the old and new. The Van der Linde gang’s struggles reflect the broader societal shifts occurring at the time, highlighting the loss of freedom and the rise of modern civilization. The game underscores that the life of an outlaw is no longer a feasible option, reflecting the harsh realities of an evolving America.

What is the significance of time and aging on the characters in RDR2?

The passage of time in Red Dead Redemption 2 deeply impacts its characters, affecting their health, relationships, and outlook on life. Aging is a prominent theme, highlighting the deterioration of the outlaw lifestyle and the challenges of adapting to a rapidly changing world. Characters such as Arthur, John, and Dutch grapple with their mortality and legacies, influencing their decisions and shaping their destinies.

By understanding the timeline and chronology of Red Dead Redemption 2, players gain a richer appreciation for the game’s intricate story, the compelling characters, and the significant historical context.