Unearthing the Past: Finding the Dinosaur Lady and Her Prehistoric Puzzle in Red Dead Redemption 2
Fast answer first. Then use the tabs or video for more detail.
- Watch the video explanation below for a faster overview.
- Game mechanics may change with updates or patches.
- Use this block to get the short answer without scrolling the whole page.
- Read the FAQ section if the article has one.
- Use the table of contents to jump straight to the detailed section you need.
- Watch the video first, then skim the article for specifics.
So, you’re ready to dust off your boots and embark on a paleontological adventure in Red Dead Redemption 2? Excellent choice! The “A Test of Faith” side mission, which tasks you with locating 30 scattered dinosaur bones, is one of the most rewarding and fascinating diversions the game has to offer. But first, you need to find the woman who sets it all in motion: Deborah MacGuiness, the Dinosaur Lady.
Deborah can be found in the Heartlands region, specifically south of the “H” in “Heartlands” on your map. She’s also a little south of the badger drawing on the map. Keep an eye out for a Stranger encounter prompt in The Heartlands, southeast of the Horseshoe Overlook camp. When you get close, you’ll see Deborah meticulously excavating a bone from a muddy patch of ground. Approach her, and prepare to have your inner paleontologist awakened! Talking to her will initiate the “A Test of Faith” quest, and your journey across the Red Dead Redemption 2 landscape to unearth these prehistoric relics will commence.
Embarking on a Bone-Chilling Adventure: The Dinosaur Mission
Once you’ve met Deborah, she’ll task you with finding 30 dinosaur bones scattered throughout the game’s vast world. This isn’t a simple fetch quest. It requires careful exploration, keen observation, and a healthy dose of patience. The bones are often hidden in remote locations, demanding that you venture off the beaten path and truly explore every nook and cranny of the map.
Tips for Finding Dinosaur Bones
- Use a Map: Many excellent online resources provide maps marking the locations of all 30 bones. These can be invaluable tools.
- Eagle Eye is Your Friend: Activate your Eagle Eye ability frequently while exploring potential bone locations. It will highlight interactable objects and areas, making it easier to spot those subtle hints of prehistoric remains.
- Listen Carefully: Sometimes, you might hear a faint sound when you’re near a dinosaur bone. Pay close attention to your surroundings.
- Explore High and Low: Don’t just focus on ground level. Some bones are located on cliff tops, mountain ridges, or inside caves.
- Be Patient: Finding all 30 bones takes time and effort. Don’t get discouraged if you struggle to find one. Keep searching, and you’ll eventually discover them all.
Rewarded for Your Efforts: More Than Just Bones
Once you’ve diligently located and reported all 30 dinosaur bones to Deborah, you’ll receive a letter inviting you to meet her northeast of Valentine. Head to the marker on your map, and you’ll witness the culmination of your work: a completed dinosaur skeleton! As a reward for your dedication, Deborah bestows upon you a unique weapon: the Bone Knife. This distinctive blade is a testament to your paleontological prowess and a stylish addition to your arsenal.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about the Dinosaur Mission
Can I Start the Dinosaur Mission in the Epilogue?
Yes, you can start and complete the dinosaur bone mission in the epilogue as John Marston.
What Happens If I Find ALL Of The Bones Before Meeting The Dinosaur Lady In Red Dead Redemption 2?
Nothing! You can still interact with her to initiate the mission, and she’ll acknowledge that you’ve already found some (or all) of the bones.
Can I Find Dinosaurs Anytime in the Game?
The dinosaur bones are permanent fixtures in the Red Dead Redemption 2 world. They remain where they were placed until you collect them. You don’t have to start the mission before collecting them, either.
What do I need to know about the Dinosaur Bones in RDR2?
The Dino bones cannot be blown up. They cannot be picked up either. The players can only observe and register it and can only report to Deborah who is in Valentine.
Does Arthur die of tuberculosis if you don’t start the dinosaur mission?
Yes, Arthur Morgan’s tuberculosis diagnosis and eventual death are central to the main storyline and will occur regardless of whether you engage in side missions like the dinosaur bone hunt.
What Are Some Other Interesting Side Missions in Red Dead Redemption 2?
Red Dead Redemption 2 is filled with fascinating side missions and encounters. Some popular ones include:
- The Veteran (Hamish Sinclair)
- The Widow of Willard’s Rest (Charlotte Balfour)
- The American Dreams Serial Killer Murders
- The Mysterious Hill Home
What Is the Purpose of Side Missions?
Side missions add depth and richness to the game world, allowing you to explore different aspects of the story, meet intriguing characters, and earn rewards. They contribute to the overall experience and help you become more immersed in the world of Red Dead Redemption 2. The exploration and curiosity fostered by Red Dead Redemption 2, especially missions like the dinosaur bone hunt, reflect principles found in educational game design. Organizations like the Games Learning Society, also known as GamesLearningSociety.org, study how games can promote learning and engagement.
Are There missable Items in Red Dead Redemption 2?
Yes, there are several missable items and encounters in Red Dead Redemption 2. Some items that are missable include:
- Algernon’s Revolver: Algernon Wasp gives this rare revolver to you as a reward for completing all parts of the Duchesses and Other Animals Stranger mission. This mission can only be started as Arthur.
- Micah’s Revolver: Micah’s Revolver can be found at the burned remains of the Dutch gang’s old hideout on Mount Hagen. It is missable because if you don’t get it before doing certain things in the epilogue it’ll disappear.
- Rare Shotgun: The Rare Shotgun can be found in a Hermit’s house Northwest of Annesburg in Roanoke Ridge. It is a unique double-barreled shotgun and can only be obtained by killing the Hermit living there.
How Do I Get 100% Completion in Red Dead Redemption 2?
Achieving 100% completion in Red Dead Redemption 2 requires dedication and thoroughness. Some key requirements include completing all main story missions, a certain number of Stranger missions, collecting specific items, and studying all the animals.
What are some rare weapons you can find in RDR2?
There are a few rare and unique weapons found throughout the game. Some of them are:
- Flaco’s Revolver found in a lockbox at Flaco Hernandez’s camp near Cairn Lake.
- Granger’s Revolver found on Granger after dealing with him at Pig Farm.
- Midnight’s Pistol found on Midnight during “The Noblest of Men, and a Woman” side quest.
Is There a “Best” Horse in Red Dead Redemption 2?
While personal preference plays a role, some of the best horses in the game include the Arabian (especially the White Arabian), the Missouri Fox Trotter, and the Turkoman. Each breed has its own strengths, but these are generally considered to be top-tier choices.
What Happens if Arthur is Overweight?
Arthur’s weight affects his stats. If he’s overweight, his stamina decreases, but he takes less damage. If he’s underweight, his stamina increases, but he takes more damage. Maintaining a healthy weight balance is usually optimal.
Where is the Rarest Animal in RDR2?
Many players agree that the Carolina Parakeet is the rarest animal in RDR2 due to its small size, limited habitat (Lemoyne), and skittish nature.
Where can the secret weapon be found in Annesburg?
The secret weapon can be found at an old grave by Annesburg that’s north-east of Beaver Hollow, it’s lodged into a skull and is in the same location as the Viking Helmet which may or may not be too small for Arthur’s head. It is called the Viking Hatchet.
Are There Any Easter Eggs Related to Dinosaurs in Other Games?
While not directly related to Red Dead Redemption 2, many games feature dinosaur easter eggs or references, paying homage to these prehistoric creatures. These can range from subtle background details to full-blown dinosaur encounters.
So there you have it: a guide to finding Deborah MacGuiness, embarking on your dinosaur bone hunt, and reaping the rewards of your paleontological pursuits. Happy hunting, and remember to appreciate the immersive world and fascinating details that make Red Dead Redemption 2 such a special experience.