RDR2: Arthur’s Optional Camp Therapy Sessions, Explained

One of the strongest aspects of Red Dead Redemption 2 is its ability to weave complex, multifaceted characters. Arthur Morgan is a conflicted, fascinating outlaw who experiences many highs and lows as RDR2‘s protagonist. When exploring the Van der Linde gang’s campsites throughout the story, Arthur can sit down with various gang members to have one-on-one, therapy session-like conversations with them. These not only give insight into the typically strong and silent Arthur’s thoughts and feelings, but they also reveal details about his associates.

Interestingly, many of RDR2‘s character interactions are completely optional and can be missed entirely. Taking the time to hang out around camp, perform chores, and observe other gang members can provide unique insights into the people who make up the Van der Linde gang, shedding light on some of the saddest RDR2 character backstories that rival even Arthur’s tragic journey – such as Kieran Duffy, a former O’Driscoll who is decapitated not too long after finally being accepted by the Van der Linde gang.

Talking with Mary-Beth in Red Dead Redemption 2 reveals Arthur’s fears about how the Wild West is changing around them. Outlaws are no longer accepted within society and are viewed as degenerate criminals. Arthur isn’t sad about the coming change, however; instead, he’s realistic in his outlook on the fate of the gang’s future. Arthur foresees the gang running into a dead-end situation that will result in the dissolution and end to the gang itself. Arthur’s logical realism differs from an in-denial Dutch, who frequently reiterates how he has “a plan,” even as the gang’s situation becomes increasingly dire towards RDR2’s final chapter. He also expresses a desire to help random people in need, but he simply doesn’t know how and sometimes resorts to ignoring them, although some odd RDR2 stranger missions are worth taking the time for.

Speaking with Karen or Tilly shows Arthur feels guilt and remorse about a range of topics, from ignoring people in need and murdering innocents to killing animals for fun. This is actually a point of complaint for some players, who lament that, during high Honor playthroughs, Arthur will still vent about murdering animals for no reason, even though they’ve only hunted animals for food. Still, whether some of Arthur’s conversations were meant to change dynamically based on player actions or not, it’s interesting to see him confessing his perceived wrongs, considering he is regularly witness to the actions of RDR2’s worst gang members.

What RDR2’s Campsite Conversations Reveal About Arthur

Another fascinating detail of RDR2‘s wagon-side therapy sessions is that Arthur mainly talks to the women of camp. Considering he grew up without his mother, who died when he was a child, these interactions show another side to the outlaw – someone truly concerned with the events happening around him. Additionally, this detail demonstrates that Arthur feels more comfortable opening up to women on a deeper level than men in the gang, with an exception of John Marston.

Arthur does confide in John Marston, with whom he shares a somewhat troubled brotherly relationship, towards the end of Red Dead Redemption 2, although their conversations still differ from the vulnerable moments Arthur shares with the women of the gang. These moments show it would certainly be interesting to see how Rockstar would handle a tough-as-nails female character like Sadie Adler as the protagonist of RDR3.

Red Dead Redemption 2 is packed to the brim with details, showcasing a dynamic and complex world that doesn’t hide the grim realities of Western life. Arthur’s story is full of the cruelties of living as an outlaw on the run, but it also allows for sweeter moments, showing that, despite a tough bravado, even gunslingers need someone to talk to from time to time.

About The Author

Olivia Johnson
(15 Articles Published)

Olivia Johnson is a freelance writer from California. She has been an avid gamer since the age of 5, and is passionate about writing both personally and professionally.

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