The Red Dead Redemption franchise has received acclaim for its immersive open-world, set in the Old West, over the past 13 years. The level of detail in the second game was so extensive that it required a separate disc for download on home consoles. However, the games in the Red Dead Redemption series have not explored northern settings and the unique challenges they present.
The precise locations of the game settings are somewhat vague. While the states and territories depicted are fictional, the general concept suggests that they are in the American Southwest, near the Mexican border. The map of Red Dead Redemption 2 included the entire map from the first game and expanded upon the expansive world of the setting. Characters ventured farther north, exposing players to colder environments, particularly in the mountains. By pushing the boundaries even further north in a potential Red Dead Redemption 3, players could experience greater variety and capitalize on the opportunities provided by these colder surroundings.
The Vast Open World Of the Red Dead Redemption Franchise
The Red Dead Redemption games already boast a wide range of environments. In the first game, John Marston embarked on his journey through three distinct regions. Initially, he traversed a desert area that embodies the quintessential imagery of the Old West. Afterwards, he found himself amidst the chaos of the Civil War in Mexico, before concluding his adventures in The Great Plains.
Red Dead Redemption 2 takes the essence of the Old West even further, presenting characters who venture into rugged mountainous terrain, where the biting cold becomes a formidable challenge. They also explore a relatively modern city before venturing into the treacherous swamps, investing a substantial amount of time in this perilous territory before moving forward.
The Benefits of Taking the Red Dead Redemption Franchise North
Red Dead Redemption 2 begins with a challenging introduction as its first chapter serves as a lengthy tutorial. The Van der Linde gang seeks refuge in the mountains following a disastrous heist. The player character must navigate this winter landscape, engaging in activities such as hunting, searching for other survivors, and combating rival gangs. While this wintery setting is short-lived, it could potentially be explored in a future game if the story ventured further north.
Many may not realize that the territories considered part of the Old West spanned across most of the land west of the Mississippi and east of California. Therefore, it wouldn't be unrealistic for a Red Dead Redemption game to be set even further up north. This would distinguish the game from its predecessors and give a potential third installment its unique and distinct identity.
Furthermore, by emphasizing the survival aspect and introducing additional obstacles, players would face a greater challenge in the game. They would need to navigate through harsh northern environments, taking into account the need for shelter, clothing, and other essential resources. Moreover, the snowy conditions would pose difficulties for players during heists or when evading the authorities. Given the glimpse of the snow in Red Dead Redemption 2, it could become a compelling permanent hazard if the developers decide to set the story farther north.
Although Red Dead Redemption 3 is not expected to be released until the 2030s, its direction remains uncertain. Some propose another prequel or a sequel focusing on Jack Marston. However, regardless of the chosen direction, the game would undeniably benefit from incorporating the northern setting.
Red Dead Redemption 3 is rumored to be in development.