Highlights
Red Dead Redemption 2 incorporates hidden elements, such as the dreamcatchers puzzle, that contribute to the game's immense replay value.
Finding and uncovering the mysteries of dreamcatchers is an exhilarating and fulfilling endeavor, requiring players to utilize the Dead Eye ability in order to pinpoint the elusive trees. Embarking on a lengthy adventure to locate these dreamcatchers unveils breathtaking landscapes and presents an opportunity to unearth the elusive Ancient Arrowhead, a hidden gem that remains undiscovered by many players.
RPGs have traditionally included Easter Eggs for players to discover during their adventures, providing unique items, special cutscenes, and achievement plaques as rewards for observant gamers. This feature spans across various genres, including fantasy and action. It comes as no surprise that Red Dead Redemption 2, one of the popular games of the past decade, incorporates this mechanic into its gameplay. Known for its mind-boggling enigmas like the Whiskey Tree and Mystery Tree Faces, this Wild West-themed title also conceals numerous other intriguing features. One particular side quest does not require players to activate a mission in order to unravel its secrets, making it one of the best-kept secrets of the game.
Uncovering all the collectibles available in Red Dead Redemption 2 is no easy task, and even the most skilled completionists have encountered obstacles trying to exhaust the game's content. The dreamcatchers puzzle proves to be a frustrating experience for many players, as there are 20 such items scattered across the expansive map. Locating these keepsakes is just the beginning of the challenge, as players must also decipher the ancient secrets they hold. The clues needed to solve the puzzle often go unnoticed by those who aren't fully attentive. The way Red Dead Redemption 2 incorporates hidden elements is highly commendable and adds to the game's significant replay value.
Solving the Dreamcatchers Conundrum Holds Rewards for Players
Players can begin their search for dreamcatchers in Chapter 2 as soon as they arrive at camp. However, these items are difficult to spot as they are located randomly and can blend in with their surroundings. Dreamcatchers are usually found on trees that have unique characteristics, such as being slightly further away from other trees or having an unusual shape. However, these differences are not easily visible to the naked eye, so players often use the Dead Eye feature, which is typically used for hunting, to locate these hidden trees.
When using the Dead Eye, the decorated tree will be highlighted with glowing yellow lights. By investigating this anomaly, the dreamcatcher is added to Arthur Morgan's Log for further examination once all 20 items have been found. In New Hannover, there are 14 dreamcatchers to be found, while Ambarino and Lemoyne each have four and two dreamcatchers, respectively. Some dreamcatchers can be found near town markings on the map, such as Annesburg and Valentine. Once all the dreamcatchers have been located, Arthur will create a map in the shape of a buffalo that shows the locations of each dreamcatcher for future reference.
This drawing marks the beginning of the quest to unlock the secret behind the dreamcatchers. Upon examining Arthur's sketch, a peculiar detail emerges, leading to the resolution of the puzzle. All the locations on the map are connected to form an image of a buffalo, with the exception of the spot above the Elysian Pool. By heading to the Elysian Pool and entering the waterfall, players are taken into a cave that requires a lantern to navigate. Inside the cave, the walls are adorned with stunning cave paintings, including a depiction of a buffalo similar to Arthur's sketch. Interacting with both pictures rewards players with the Ancient Arrowhead.
In RPGs like Red Dead Redemption 2, lengthy treasure hunts are common, often offering substantial rewards. Despite the effort required to complete these side quests, the captivating scenery encountered throughout the search for dreamcatchers provides a pleasant viewing experience. Each location presents a unique challenge, making it challenging for players to uncover hidden objects, even with the assistance of walkthroughs and Dead Eye. As a result, many players of Red Dead Redemption 2 have yet to discover the Ancient Arrowhead and its bonus of increased bow stamina, making it one of the game's best-kept secrets.
Red Dead Redemption 2 is available now for PC, PS4, and Xbox One.