Red Dead Redemption 3’s Protagonist is a Real Hedgehog’s Dilemma

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It remains uncertain whether we’ll see a third installment of “Red Dead Redemption,” but it’s safe to say that if there is, it will likely be successful. The “Red Dead Redemption” games, particularly the second one, are often praised as among the greatest narrative-driven open-world games ever made. They stand out due to their exceptional writing and mission design. Given the series’ reputation for excellence and profitability, it seems reasonable to expect that Rockstar would be eager to continue this highly esteemed video game franchise.

In other words, developing a third installment of “Red Dead Redemption” could pose numerous challenges that Rockstar Games might find difficult to manage. The original game and its prequel, “Red Dead Redemption 2,” both revolve around John Marston’s struggle with his past and encounters with old gang members. As such, creating a new story featuring similar characters in the next game could be problematic because these games have already explored this theme extensively. While some might suggest that Sadie should lead “Red Dead Redemption 3,” such ideas are often driven more by fan affection for these characters rather than what would create an engaging narrative.

Why Red Dead Redemption Is Facing Down the Barrel of a Hedgehog’s Dilemma

The Hedgehog’s Dilemma, attributed to Arthur Schopenhauer, can be roughly described as follows:

  • Two hedgehogs wish to huddle together for warmth during the winter months, but cannot do so without harming each other with their quills.

Schopenhauer compares human relationships to a constant dance with thorns, suggesting they’re inherently harmful. He proposes that we connect due to shared needs for companionship or amusement, but ultimately recoil from each other because of our flaws. However, these repulsions are temporary; the desire for comfort and entertainment often wins out over the fear of being pricked again. So, in essence, every connection between humans carries a price tag.

In a somewhat somber perspective, it fits surprisingly well with the hypothetical “Red Dead Redemption 3”. While fans might yearn for characters like Sadie and Charles to reappear, the aspects that make them endearing or captivating may not translate effectively into this fresh installment. This is because “Red Dead Redemption 3” would likely be detached from the narrative framework of its predecessors, thus losing some of the strengths it previously enjoyed.

Red Dead Redemption Is Replete with Great Characters, but Their Stories Are Over

Discussing potential characters for a hypothetical “Red Dead Redemption 3,” Jack Marston is often proposed due to his strong connection with the series, but this choice might conflict with John’s objectives in the first game and blur Jack’s individuality. Some fans advocate for Sadie Adler as the protagonist, venturing into South America for bounty hunting exploits. However, this could diminish the enigmatic and conclusive nature of her story in “Red Dead Redemption 2,” transforming her character into a typical action heroine. This issue also applies to other popular characters like Charles.

The most beautiful flower may appear gaudy when placed in an unsuitable setting, while even the simplest weed can lend elegance to a bouquet – it all depends on where these elements belong. Characters such as Sadie, Jack, and Charles are standouts from the Red Dead series, but they’re part of a larger, intricate mix. They can’t be easily transplanted into another game and still retain their charm and depth; instead, they could lose their essence and become mere commodities rather than integral parts of a bigger picture.

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2025-07-29 00:35