Red Dead Redemption 3 May Be Sitting on a Powder Keg with One Character

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Red Dead Redemption 3 May Be Sitting on a Powder Keg with One Character

Key Takeaways

  • Dutch Van der Linde plays a crucial role in the
    Red Dead Redemption
    series, serving as a complex character with both good and bad qualities.
  • Dutch’s story has been concluded by the first two
    Red Dead Redemption
    games.
  • The franchise’s future games face a challenge if they take place after Dutch’s story, as they will need to introduce a character who is as charismatic and enigmatic.

As a gamer who has spent countless hours roaming the wild west with the Van der Linde gang, I can wholeheartedly say that Dutch Van der Linde is undeniably one of the most captivating characters I’ve ever encountered. His complex nature, his charisma, and his enigmatic aura have left an indelible mark on me.

Spoilers for
Red Dead Redemption
and
Red Dead Redemption 2
are ahead.

The “Red Dead Redemption” series revolves around the Van der Linde gang, exploring how they navigate complex moral issues. In the original game, players join John Marston in his mission to rescue his kidnapped family, as the government seeks to enlist him for their campaign to apprehend the disbanded Van der Linde gang. The prequel, “Red Dead Redemption 2”, centers around Arthur Morgan and the gradual decline of the gang.

The critically acclaimed open-world game, Red Dead Redemption 2, has been incredibly profitable for Rockstar Games and left gamers yearning for more. However, the upcoming installment of the Red Dead Redemption series finds itself in a tricky situation regarding one character: Dutch Van der Linde. As the leader of the gang, he plays a crucial role in the storyline. Yet, if the next game isn’t another prequel, the franchise might have to bid farewell to him.

Dutch’s Role in the Red Dead Redemption Series

In the game “Red Dead Redemption 2”, Dutch van der Linde is an influential figure with persuasive skills. He manages to convince his gang that their actions, which often involve theft and violence, are for a righteous cause. Arthur Morgan initially looks up to Dutch as a mentor, but as the story unfolds, their relationship starts to shift.

Gradually, it appears that Dutch is losing control and developing an intense desire for retribution. This becomes evident as he targets Colm O’Driscol, the head of the O’Driscoll gang, ensuring his execution. Similarly, Dutch seeks revenge against Angelo Bronte, the Italian mobster, by handing him over to alligators. However, Dutch is not entirely malicious and has his positive aspects, providing thought-provoking social commentary that encourages players to contemplate the impact of modernization and the function of law enforcement.

Red Dead Redemption Concludes Dutch’s Story

In the initial “Red Dead Redemption” game, his narrative unfolds as he connects with a Native American tribe. Post the dissolution of his gang, led by Dutch, there’s a palpable disdain towards modernization and its impact. Eventually, John Marston confronts Dutch, who, rather than being captured, elects to jump from a cliff and meet his end in a fall.

The Importance of Dutch in the Red Dead Redemption Franchise

A significant portion of the franchise’s key themes are expressed through the character of Dutch. Players experience the futility of revenge as portrayed by him, who remarks, “revenge is a fool’s game.” Dutch also showcases the negative impacts of modernization, revealing how it marginalizes certain individuals and communities. He exploits this situation to gain support from Native Americans, albeit with questionable intentions.

Dutch, a character in the series, is intriguing and sparks diverse views among players. Some see him as a flawed hero, who stumbles because of his excessive greed, ambition, thirst for vengeance, and violent temperament. To others, he’s an unforgivable antagonist, being ruthless and misguiding. However, his complexity makes him the focal point of the series and a vital component of the Van der Linde gang that cannot be easily replaced.

Dutch Van Der Linde is a Tough Act to Follow

To create a new “Red Dead Redemption” game set in a different time period, particularly one after the events of the original game, the creators must handle Dutch’s absence effectively. Since Dutch is such a captivating and mysterious character, they would need to introduce a new figure who can embody those traits. This is no simple task. One option to address this challenge could be developing another prequel, but this approach might lead to repetition, potentially boring players by rehashing familiar territory.

Dutch has long been one of the most intricate characters in gaming within the Red Dead Redemption franchise, making it hard to envision the series without him. However, if Rockstar wants to maintain the franchise’s appeal, they might need to make a change. This predicament leaves developers torn between featuring Dutch again in the next game or leaving him behind. Both decisions come with risks, underscoring the significant impact Dutch has on the entire series.

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2024-09-07 13:33