10 Video Game Side Missions That MASSIVELY Change The Main Story

Red Dead Redemption 2 has been an undeniable success since it first launched, reaching 29 million copies and received critical acclaim. Playing as Arthur Morgan, member of the Van Der Linde Gang, it showed the gang in its peak years, amidst the declining Wild West.

Set within an open world, the main quest sees you confronting Thomas Downes, a farmer in debt to Leopald Strauss and Arthur’s out to collect. No matter your approach though, this visibly ill farmer doesn’t have it and Arthur leaves upon intervention by his wife Edith and son Archie.

Not long after, Thomas passes away and Arthur is now sent to collect from Edith. Later discovering they’ve become financially unstable, it forces Edith to resort to prostitution, moving to Annesburg. As Arthur becomes progressively more ill, he feels remorse for his actions and sets out to make amends.

Initially asking to be left alone, Mrs Downes informs Arthur her son Archie is working within the mines but the Foreman is bullying him. Saving Archie from this, Arthur offers his money but Edith refuses, still working as a prostitute and Archie asks him to find her.

Upon returning home with her, he tries again, saying he’s not looking for forgiveness and to not let pride kill her. Edith finally accepts, moving away from Annesburg. It’s a key part of Arthur’s character development, highlighting the consequences of his actions and shows a man looking to make peace before his inevitable demise. You can't really have the redemption in the title without these side missions.