The Untold Brilliance of Hosea - Red Dead Redemption 2's True Hero

Highlights

Red Dead Redemption 2 is more of a community story than its predecessor, introducing players to the Van Der Linde Gang and their journey through different locations.

Hosea emerges as a remarkable figure in the game, possessing remarkable complexity and playing a crucial part in the narrative. His tragic end firmly establishes him as one of the game's uncelebrated champions.

As Dutch's trusted lieutenant and the gang's stabilizing force, Hosea's passing deeply affects Dutch's persona, pushing him towards insanity and ultimately endangering the gang's well-being.

In the critically acclaimed Red Dead Redemption 2, the focus shifts from an individual's struggle with their criminal past in the previous installment to a more collaborative experience. The game introduces players to the Van Der Linde Gang, a group of key characters, and invites them to join their journey through various locations, all part of Dutch's enigmatic 'plan'. Though the gameplay and progression in this 2018 sequel can be challenging, the compelling story and well-developed characters make it a highly satisfying and memorable experience from the past decade.

While some characters, such as Bill, Uncle, and Javier, are familiar to fans of the first game, newcomers Arthur and Hosea quickly establish themselves as integral figures in the game's lore, thanks to their rich complexity. Hosea, in particular, plays a significant role in the narrative, and his contributions go beyond mere background decoration. Tragically, his demise further solidifies him as one of the unsung heroes of Red Dead Redemption 2.

Hosea is One of Red Dead Redemption 2's Brightest Sparks

Each member of the gang possesses a distinct and fascinating personality. Sadie exudes a captivating blend of vindictiveness and charm, making her an easy character to root for. Charles, on the other hand, radiates a genuine kindness and goodness. It is this diversity that makes their interactions so memorable and captivating. Among them, Hosea stands out as a likable character, a former outlaw who has mellowed with age and now prefers a quieter approach to breaking the law. It was through a fortuitous encounter between Hosea and Dutch that the gang began to expand, eventually welcoming Arthur into their midst.

Hosea held the position of Dutch's trusted right-hand man and confidant. His tragic demise, gunned down by Andrew Milton of the Pinkerton Detective Agency, left players mourning the loss of a beloved character. Dutch, too, suffered a profound blow, losing not only a steadfast friend but also his own grip on sanity. Subtly but undeniably, Hosea's presence played a significant role in maintaining Dutch's leadership within the gang. In Hosea's absence, the once unshakable Dutch became increasingly swayed by the manipulative influence of Micah Bell, ultimately leading to the unraveling of their world.

Dutch van der Linde is Unstable, but Hosea is his Anchor

The Dutch presented in the beginning of Red Dead Redemption 2 undergoes a significant transformation by the end of the game, and this change is even more pronounced compared to the Dutch in RDR1. Initially, he is ambitious and possesses strong leadership qualities that make him persuasive in leading the group into precarious situations. However, as the game progresses, his ambition transforms into gullibility and outright madness. He becomes noticeably more anxious and paranoid upon arrival in Guarma, but the root of these changes can be traced back to the tragic death of Hosea during a failed heist in Saint Denis.

Hosea, not only a beloved character famous for his development, but also a crucial figure that held the Van Der Linde Gang together. Once he is gone, everything begins to unravel for Dutch, who rapidly loses control and becomes a burden for the gang. Eventually, Dutch becomes a major nuisance for John Marston during the events of Red Dead Redemption in 2010. Hosea acted as the adhesive that kept the rag-tag gang intact, and although the Van Der Linde Gang's tragic story is one of the most compelling in gaming, his absence proves detrimental.

Red Dead Redemption 2 is available now on PC, PS4, and Xbox One.