Highlights
Red Dead Redemption 3 could explore a time period set after the events of the first game, potentially following Jack Marston and his experiences in World War 1.
One option for Red Dead Redemption 3 is to explore the earlier years of Dutch and Hosea in order to give more background on the origins of the Van der Linde gang.
Another possibility is for the game to go back to the time period of Red Dead Revolver, giving players a detailed look into the authentic Wild West and including beloved characters such as Red Harlow.
Fans eagerly anticipating a possible Red Dead Redemption 3 are left wondering about the game's potential time setting. The previous two installments effectively delved into the decline of the Wild West, cleverly capturing the spirit of outlaws in an era gradually being overtaken by industrial progress. Covering a span of approximately two decades, Red Dead Redemption 3 would likely need to venture further in time to maintain the familiar themes of its predecessors. Therefore, only a limited number of specific time periods remain viable options that align with the successful framework of the overall franchise.
The Possible Timeframes of Red Dead Redemption 3
Diverging from its predecessor, Red Dead Redemption 2 tactfully opts to unfold its storyline before the events of the initial game, thus leaving an evident opportunity for RDR3 to progress chronologically. Although this potential time frame may present challenges in replicating the gameplay dynamics of the franchise, Rockstar indisputably possesses ample creative space to craft a compelling narrative.
Given the conclusion of Red Dead Redemption in 1914, the next installment in the series could seamlessly pick up from this point in time to further develop the overarching narrative. Red Dead 3, set in 1914, could center around Jack Marston, with players assuming control of him during the epilogue of RDR in 2010. Initially, the game could focus on the final days of the Wild West, eventually progressing to Jack's involvement in World War I around 1917.
After experiencing the horrors of war, Jack would return to a world that has rapidly embraced industrialization, forcing him to adapt to the new challenges and the evolving nature of criminal activities. Although this would mean the end of quintessential Wild West elements such as horseback riding and classic shootouts, it would allow for a compelling and impactful narrative that continues to explore the themes of change that were so successfully depicted in both RDR and RDR2.
Red Dead Redemption 3 has the potential to explore different time periods, allowing for various storylines. One possibility is delving into the younger years of Dutch and Hosea, where they form the Van der Linde gang and mentor a young Arthur Morgan. This would provide further context to the gang's history, but may lack the same impact as the previous Red Dead titles.
Alternatively, Red Dead 3 could return to the time period of Red Dead Revolver, set in 1880. With the advancements in scale and detail seen in modern RDR games, this era would provide a comprehensive and immersive depiction of the true Wild West. Familiar characters from Revolver, like Red Harlow, could also make an appearance.
Although Red Dead Redemption and its prequel were cleverly connected through a common storyline, the franchise now finds itself in a challenging position in terms of what it can delve into next while meeting the same level of expectations. Red Dead Redemption 3 is anticipated to either venture deeper into the 20th century or immerse itself in the essence of the Old West. Both options carry significant risks and rewards unique to each time period.