Red Dead Redemption 2: Why You Should Start Over in 2026

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Players are drawn to games with strong stories. This is why Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 was named Game of the Year in 2025, and why even simpler games like Dispatch can become incredibly popular. However, while many games offer engaging narratives, none quite match the quality of the story in Red Dead Redemption 2, which is still considered one of the greatest stories in gaming. That alone is a great reason to play it again, but if you need more convincing, here’s everything you need to know.

It might sound like a strong statement, but after playing Red Dead Redemption 2 again and again this year, I’m convinced it holds up incredibly well. While most games start to feel stale after multiple playthroughs, RDR2 actually improves with each one. Its story and dialogue aren’t just better than most games—they rival those found in many movies, TV shows, and books. Some people argue the game is overrated, perhaps because of its popularity, but that doesn’t make sense. Red Dead Redemption 2 connects with a wide range of players, from newcomers to experienced gamers, because its powerful story overcomes any flaws in gameplay or structure. This is rare for big, story-focused games, which often rely on simpler narratives to appeal to everyone.

Spoilers ahead for Red Dead Redemption 2.

Every Playthrough Reveals Something New in Red Dead Redemption 2

Red Dead Redemption 2 is known for its large cast of characters, each with unique connections to Dutch and Arthur. What’s truly remarkable is how Rockstar made even the less sympathetic characters compelling and realistic. However, the game’s most impactful feature is the intricate network of relationships between these characters, which becomes clearer and more meaningful with each playthrough.

I’ve been noticing a lot more about how Dutch behaves with each member of the gang in my current game. It’s become clear that Dutch is constantly manipulating people, and it’s obvious in almost every conversation he has. For instance, he’ll scold John right in front of Abigail when she’s already upset with him. He brings in people who are down on their luck, offering them a home, but he always expects something in return – their loyalty isn’t freely given, it’s a trade.

Red Dead Redemption 2 resonates with a wide range of players, from newcomers to experienced gamers, because its compelling story overcomes any flaws in the game’s mechanics or design. Unlike many other big-budget, story-focused games, it doesn’t rely on simple or predictable narratives to connect with players.

Throughout Red Dead Redemption 2, Dutch frequently criticizes and yells at his gang members when he feels they’ve wronged him, questioned his leadership, or interfered with his plans. This raises a question: is he a manipulative narcissist who only shows affection when people obey him? Or is he a deeply traumatized criminal, fearful that his closest companions will abandon him as modern society closes in? Your initial impression might change significantly upon replaying the game, leading you to a completely different understanding of his actions.

Despite any good qualities, Dutch’s dishonesty is clear. You can see it in specific instances, such as when he manipulates Arthur by denying he almost left him to die at the Cornwall Kerosene and Tar factory. It’s also apparent in his general behavior – he often claims to have a plan when he’s actually making things up as he goes along.

Red Dead Redemption 2 Can Be Blinding at First

Some people might disagree with what I’ve said, perhaps thinking they instantly understood the complex relationships and psychological depth in Red Dead Redemption 2. That’s great if they did – it means they’re good at analyzing stories. Personally, I just got completely lost in the game’s amazing story, world, dialogue, and performances when I first played it, and I suspect many others did too.

One of the greatest strengths of Red Dead 2 is how fully it immerses you in its world, especially during your first time playing. It’s easy to get caught up in the story and initially see the game as a classic western tragedy, much like the characters are drawn in by Dutch’s charisma. However, Red Dead 2 is much more than that – it’s a complex psychological drama with a sprawling family story at its heart. While you can appreciate these layers on your first playthrough, a second time through reveals even more meaning and context. For these reasons, it’s well worth revisiting the game this year.

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2026-01-15 20:06