Red Dead Redemption 2 is an emotionally intense game, but one of its most painful moments is saved for the end credits. After playing through the whole game and struggling through every hardship sent Arthur's way, the player would likely appreciate some peace. Unfortunately, RDR2 ends with a grim reminder of what is to come after the credits roll.
In Red Dead Redemption 2, the player follows Arthur Morgan in his desperate and ill-fated attempts to keep the Van Der Linde gang alive and well. Through hours of gameplay, Arthur proves to be the best that the wild west has to offer as an outlaw, shooting his way through gangs and lawmen alike for the sake of his gang, unaware that Dutch would betray him in RDR2. Sadly, even Arthur had his limits, and the gang ultimately crumbled despite his best efforts. Arthur himself dies at the end of the game, succumbing to tuberculosis even in the best ending. However, he does have a victory in seeing the Marston family escape alive.
Edgar Ross Is Still Around In Red Dead Redemption 2's Ending
The epilogue of Red Dead Redemption 2 ends with John tracking down Micah, the man who betrayed the gang and proved himself to be Arthur's arch-nemesis. In a final showdown, John is able to come out on top with assistance from Dutch, and he can return home knowing that Micah can never trouble him again. After John's return in RDR2, he and Abigail are able to get married despite their relationship troubles. This event is shown in a joyous cutscene that takes place afterward. However, before the game can end on that high note, Edgar Ross is seen overlooking the Marston family's new ranch.
Red Dead Redemption 2's Ending Is A Prelude To Tragedy
Over the course of Red Dead Redemption 2, Ross is little more than Agent Milton's sidekick, assisting him as he tries to use the Pinkertons to bring down Dutch and the Van Der Lindes. However, in Red Dead Redemption, Ross steps into the role of the main antagonist, using his leverage over John to send him out to slay his former compatriots in Bill, Javier, and Dutch. By showing up at the end of RDR2, Ross shows that he knows where John lives, and the events of the original will come to pass. RDR2's ending only delays the inevitable. John's mistakes will lead to Red Dead Redemption, ensuring that players witness another tragedy.
While most games give the player a chance to reflect on their successes at the end, Ross' appearance at the end of RDR2 reminds the players of what was lost. The Van Der Linde gang broke up, with many members dead. Bill, Javier, and Dutch will become much worse people before John Marston has to put them down. Arthur Morgan dies of tuberculosis, sacrificing his life to give John and his family a chance at a new life. In the end, John and Abigail Marston will be dead too, with their son Jack on the same path as his father. Red Dead Redemption 2 is a sad story, and Micah's end is the only true victory that can be taken from it.
Red Dead Redemption 2 is a modern tragedy, with all of the protagonists suffering in search of their ambitions. Arthur and John both end up paying the ultimate price despite any good intentions that they may have had, giving each game a bittersweet ending. The reminder at the end of Red Dead Redemption 2 ensures that the player remembers the injustice of the Red Dead universe.
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