Multiplayer: Red Dead Online (Persistent Open World, Co-op Missions, PvP Modes, Roles)
Setting: Fictionalized American West, 1899 (Ambarino, New Hanover, Lemoyne, West Elizabeth, New Austin)
Platforms: PC, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Google Stadia
Unique Feature: Incredible World Detail & Immersion, Deep Character Interactions, Honor System, Realistic Survival Mechanics, Dynamic Wildlife Ecosystem, Dead Eye Targeting System.
Perspective: Third-Person
Multiplayer: Single-player Only (Fan-made multiplayer mod for PC)
Setting: Medici (Fictional Mediterranean Island Republic)
Platforms: PC (Windows), PlayStation 4, Xbox One
Unique Feature: Signature Grappling Hook, Wingsuit, and Parachute traversal; massive physics-based destruction sandbox; liberation of a vast Mediterranean archipelago; Gear Mod system for customizing abilities.
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Gameplay & Mechanics
Companions/Followers
Van der Linde Gang Members (Contextual AI): While not directly commandable like 'Guns for Hire' in Far Cry, various members of the Van der Linde gang will accompany Arthur on specific story missions, providing combat support, dialogue, and unique interactions. Their presence and abilities are scripted based on the mission. Key members like Charles, Sadie, John, Lenny, Bill, and Javier frequently ride with Arthur.
Human
Your Horse (Primary Mount): Arthur's primary means of transport and a crucial companion. Bonding with a horse (by feeding, patting, brushing) increases its Health and Stamina, unlocks special maneuvers (drifting, piaffe), and makes it less likely to buck Arthur off when scared. Horses can carry pelts, carcasses, and an extra outfit. Different breeds have varying base stats (speed, acceleration, health, stamina).
Equus caballus (Various Breeds)
Temporary Dog Companions: In certain situations or with specific camp dogs (like Cain), Arthur can interact with them, and they might follow him for a short period or alert him to nearby points of interest or danger. They are not combat companions in the traditional sense.
Canis familiaris
Rebel Fighters (Army of Liberation): As Rico liberates settlements and military bases, AI-controlled rebel fighters will spawn and engage Di Ravello's forces. They act independently but contribute to the chaotic battles and can provide covering fire or draw enemy attention. Rico can sometimes find rebel squads to assist in specific encounters, but he cannot directly command them.
Human (AI-Controlled Rebels)
Mission-Specific Allies (Mario, Dimah, Sheldon, Annika): Key story characters like Mario Frigo, Dimah al-Masri, Tom Sheldon, and Annika Svensson (in DLC) will accompany or assist Rico during specific story missions or provide objectives and intel. They are not persistent controllable companions but play roles in dedicated mission sequences.
Human (Key NPCs)
Rebel Drop Pilots (Implied): Though not visible companions in the traditional sense, pilots from the rebellion deliver requested vehicles, weapons, and gear to Rico's location via Rebel Drops (supply drops). Their efficiency and the range of available items can be improved by collecting Vintage Parts.
Human (AI-Controlled Rebels)
Key Collectibles
Dinosaur Bones: 30 fossilized dinosaur bones hidden across the map. Players find them and mail their coordinates to the paleontologist Deborah MacGuiness to complete a side quest chain and receive unique rewards, including a Jawbone Knife and a Jawbone Trinket.
Cigarette Cards: 144 collectible cards (12 sets of 12 cards each) found in cigarette packs throughout the world or as individual finds. Collecting full sets and mailing them to Phileas T. Ramsbottom yields monetary rewards and unique items.
Dreamcatchers: 20 dreamcatchers hanging from trees in specific locations. Finding all of them reveals a depiction of a buffalo on a cave wall and unlocks the Ancient Arrowhead perk, which doubles stamina while using the bow.
Rock Carvings: 10 intricate carvings on rock faces, part of the 'Geology for Beginners' stranger mission. Mailing their coordinates to Francis Sinclair leads to a mysterious encounter and rewards.
Legendary Fish: 13 unique, massive fish that can be caught in specific bodies of water using special lures, part of Jeremy Gill's 'A Fisher of Fish' stranger mission. Mailing them back rewards money and unique fishing gear.
Graves: 9 graves of fallen companions can be found and interacted with after certain points in the story, contributing to 100% completion and offering moments of reflection.
Points of Interest (Sketches): 50 unique locations, animals, or events that Arthur can observe and sketch in his journal, adding to its detail and contributing to completion.
Exotic Items (for Algernon Wasp): Various rare bird plumes, orchids, and alligator eggs requested by the eccentric Algernon Wasp in Saint Denis for his 'Duchesses and other Animals' stranger mission series, rewarding unique items like the Exotic Hat.
Treasure Maps & Hidden Treasures: Series of maps leading to hidden stashes of gold bars or valuable items. Some are part of stranger missions, others are found through exploration.
Di Ravello Tapes: Audio logs recorded by General Di Ravello, scattered across Medici. Collecting these reveals more about his backstory, motivations, and personality. There are 71 tapes in total.
Ancient Tombs: Hidden tombs found in various locations. Each tomb contains a switch that, when activated, contributes to unlocking the U-24 Zabijak, a unique shotgun. There are 23 tombs.
Daredevil Jumps: Specific ramps or locations designed for performing vehicle jumps. Completing all 30 Daredevil Jumps is required for an achievement/trophy.
Vintage Parts: Collectible parts for various weapons and vehicles, found by searching specific locations marked on the map (often after liberating areas or finding intel). Collecting all parts for an item unlocks it for Rebel Drops. There are 79 unique items to collect parts for (weapons, land vehicles, sea vehicles, air vehicles).
Rebel Shrines (Virgin Mary Shrines): Small shrines dedicated to the Virgin Mary, scattered across Medici. Lighting all 49 shrines is part of a side activity and unlocks an achievement/trophy.
Tomb Raider Relics (Easter Egg - from 'Lost Explorer' mission): Specific relics found during 'The Lost Explorer' side mission series, referencing the Tomb Raider franchise.
Key Themes
The End of the Wild West
Loyalty vs. Morality
Redemption
Betrayal
Outlaw Life
Civilization vs. Wilderness
Honor
Family (Found & Blood)
Consequences of Actions
Nature & Survival
Industrialization
Liberation
Chaos & Destruction
Dictatorship
Rebellion
Mediterranean Setting
Physics-Based Sandbox
One-Man Army
Explosions
Over-the-Top Action
Anti-Totalitarianism
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Combat & Gear
Weapons Overview
Revolvers: Sidearm (Single/Double Action)
Iconic Western sidearms like the Cattleman Revolver, Schofield Revolver, Double-Action Revolver. Customizable with grips, barrel lengths, metals, and engravings. Can be dual-wielded.
Pistols: Sidearm (Semi-Automatic)
Early semi-automatic pistols such as the Mauser Pistol, Semi-Automatic Pistol, Volcanic Pistol. Offer faster fire rates than revolvers. Customizable and dual-wieldable.
Repeaters: Rifle (Lever/Bolt Action, Medium Range)
Versatile rifles like the Lancaster Repeater, Litchfield Repeater, Carbine Repeater. Good balance of damage, range, and fire rate. Mainstays for combat.
Rifles: Rifle (Bolt/Single Shot, Long Range)
Includes the Bolt Action Rifle, Springfield Rifle, Rolling Block Rifle (Sniper). Powerful and accurate for long-range engagements and big game hunting.
Shotguns: Close Quarters (High Damage)
Pump-Action Shotgun, Semi-Auto Shotgun, Double-Barreled Shotgun, Sawed-Off Shotgun. Devastating at close range, with different ammo types (slugs, incendiary).
Sniper Rifles: Very Long Range (Scoped)
Specialized long-range rifles like the Carcano Rifle and Rolling Block Rifle (when scoped). Used for precision kills from extreme distances.
Bows: Silent Ranged
A versatile weapon for silent hunting and stealth combat. Can use standard, improved, small game, poison, fire, and dynamite arrows.
Melee Weapons: Close Quarters (Silent/Brutal)
Includes various knives (Hunting Knife, Jawbone Knife), hatchets, cleavers, and the Machete. Used for stealth takedowns and brutal close combat.
Rico's primary tool. Can attach to surfaces for traversal, tether multiple objects/enemies together (up to 6 tethers simultaneously with upgrades), and retract tethers remotely. Upgradable via Gear Mods for strength, speed, and number of tethers.
A wide variety of conventional firearms. Rico can dual-wield one-handed weapons. Examples: CS Negotiator (Grenade Launcher), UPU-210 (Rocket Launcher), Capstone Hydra (Rocket Launcher), Fire Leech (Homing Cluster Rocket), M488 (Multi-Lock Missile Launcher).
Special Weapons (e.g., M488, Fire Leech): Heavy / Unique Firearm
Powerful weapons often found in military bases or unlocked through progression, offering significant destructive capability, such as multi-lock missile launchers or homing rockets.
Versatile C4-like explosives that can be planted on surfaces, vehicles, or enemies and detonated remotely. Can be upgraded to have proximity triggers or increased explosive yield via Gear Mods.
Grenades: Throwable Explosive
Standard fragmentation grenades. Capacity can be upgraded via Gear Mods.
The 'Gravitational Remote Influence Projector' (GRIP) equipped on controllable Mechs in the 'Mech Land Assault' DLC, allowing players to pick up and throw objects (including enemies and vehicles) with powerful force.
Eden Spark (Bavarium Sea Heist DLC): Energy Weapon
A powerful Bavarium-powered lightning gun acquired in the 'Bavarium Sea Heist' DLC, capable of chain lightning attacks.
Armor / Gear Sets
Clothing Outfits & Individual Pieces: Arthur Morgan can wear a vast array of clothing items (hats, coats, shirts, vests, pants, boots, gloves, neckwear, suspenders, chaps, spurs). While primarily cosmetic and for role-playing, some outfits or pieces provide minor benefits like temperature resistance (e.g., warmer clothes for cold weather). There isn't a traditional 'armor' system for damage reduction through clothing. Players can save custom outfits.
Reinforced Equipment (Crafted by Pearson): Using perfect animal pelts and other materials, Pearson at the gang camp can craft reinforced equipment: Bandoliers (increase ammo capacity), Satchels (increase carrying capacity for provisions, tonics, ingredients, materials, valuables, kits), Gun Belts, and Holsters (cosmetic and potentially minor stat boosts like weapon degradation speed). These are crucial for practical upgrades.
Talismans & Trinkets (Crafted by Fence): Crafted at a Fence using parts from Legendary Animals and unique collectible items. These provide permanent passive buffs to Arthur's core stats (Health, Stamina, Dead Eye), experience gain, weapon degradation, money earned, or other gameplay aspects. They are equipped and offer significant, though often subtle, advantages.
Tonics (Consumable Buffs): Various craftable or purchasable tonics provide temporary boosts or full restoration to Health, Stamina, and Dead Eye cores and bars. Potent versions offer stronger effects or fortification (slowing core drain). These act as temporary 'armor' or performance enhancers.
Rico's Default Outfit: Rico's signature attire (leather jacket, jeans) doesn't provide specific numerical armor values. Player survivability is based on health and regeneration, which isn't directly tied to equippable armor pieces in the traditional RPG sense.
Gear Mods (Defensive): While not visible armor, certain Gear Mods can enhance Rico's resilience, such as those that increase his resistance to damage or improve health regeneration, effectively acting as an armor system.
Bavarium Wingsuit (Sky Fortress DLC): The Bavarium Wingsuit itself offers no direct damage resistance but provides enhanced mobility and offensive capabilities which contribute to survivability by allowing Rico to evade attacks and quickly dispatch enemies. It's more of an offensive/traversal tool.
Mech Armor (Mech Land Assault DLC): When piloting Mechs in the 'Mech Land Assault' DLC, the Mech itself provides significant protection and firepower. The Mech acts as Rico's temporary armor and weapon platform.
Outfits/Customization
Full Outfits: Players can purchase or unlock numerous pre-designed outfits (e.g., 'The Gunslinger', 'The Valentine', 'The Saint Denis'). Arthur also starts with several outfits. Outfits can be stored on his horse.
Individual Clothing Pieces: Extensive customization is possible by mixing and matching individual items: Hats, Coats (various lengths and materials), Shirts, Vests, Pants, Boots, Gloves, Neckwear (bandanas, ties, neckerchiefs), Suspenders, Chaps, Spurs. Items have different styles, colors, and can be purchased from general stores or tailors, or crafted by the Trapper from Legendary Animal pelts.
Weapon Equipment: Gun Belts, Off-Hand Holsters, and Bandoliers can be equipped and upgraded. While some offer stat benefits (ammo capacity from bandoliers), many are also cosmetic choices.
Grooming: Arthur's hair and beard grow dynamically over time. Players can visit barbers to get haircuts, shaves, or style their hair and beard in various ways. Pomade can be applied for a slicked look.
Temperature System: Clothing choices impact Arthur's resistance to cold and hot weather. Wearing appropriate attire (e.g., heavy coats in snowy mountains, lighter shirts in hot swamps) prevents negative effects on Health Core drain. Outfits can be saved with specific temperature ratings.
Rico's Default Outfit: Rico's iconic attire, typically a leather jacket, jeans, and boots. The base game does not feature extensive customization options for this outfit itself, beyond it getting progressively more worn as he takes damage (cosmetic effect).
DLC & Special Edition Skins (Wingsuit & Parachute): Various DLC packs (e.g., 'Kousavá KēRaras • Stealth Wingsuit & Parachute Skin') and special editions (like the Day One Edition's Weaponized Vehicle Pack which might include themed skins) provided cosmetic skins for Rico's wingsuit and parachute, allowing for visual personalization of these traversal tools.
Bavarium Wingsuit (Sky Fortress DLC): A unique, jet-powered and weaponized wingsuit acquired in the 'Sky Fortress' DLC. It has a distinct appearance and functionality, effectively acting as a new 'outfit' for aerial traversal and combat.
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Progression & Upgrades
Skills & Progression
Arthur Morgan's core attributes (Health, Stamina, Dead Eye) level up through gameplay actions (e.g., running increases stamina, headshots increase Dead Eye). Gear upgrades (bandoliers, satchels, holsters) are crafted by Pearson at the gang camp using animal pelts and other materials, increasing carrying capacity. Weapons can be customized extensively (barrels, sights, stocks, wraps, engravings) and cleaned to maintain performance. Tonics and provisions provide temporary buffs. Horse bonding is crucial, unlocking new maneuvers and increasing horse stats. Camp upgrades provide benefits like better provisions and fast travel.
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World & Exploration
World & Level Design
The game world is exceptionally large, detailed, and diverse. Regions include the snowy mountains of Ambarino, the heartland plains and forests of New Hanover, the swampy bayous and antebellum towns of Lemoyne, the developing plains and forests of West Elizabeth, and the arid deserts and canyons of New Austin (largely based on the map from the first Red Dead Redemption). Each region has unique ecosystems, wildlife, towns, and points of interest.
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Playable Vehicles
Horses (Various Breeds): Primary Mount / Living Vehicle
The main mode of transportation. Over 19 breeds available, each with different stats (Health, Stamina, Speed, Acceleration) and handling. Can be bought, stolen, or tamed from the wild. Bonding with a horse improves its stats and unlocks maneuvers. Horses can carry pelts and carcasses.
Wagons & Coaches: Horse-Drawn Vehicle
Various types of wagons (small carts, supply wagons, oil tankers) and passenger coaches (stagecoaches, buggies). Can be driven by the player, stolen, or used in missions. Some are armored or have specific functions.
Trains: Rail Vehicle
Fully operational steam trains run on a schedule across the map. Players can ride trains as passengers (a form of fast travel), rob them, or even drive them for a short period if hijacked.
Boats (Canoes, Rowboats, Small Steamboats): Watercraft
Used for navigating rivers, lakes, and swamps. Includes simple canoes and rowboats for personal transport or fishing, and occasionally small, armed steamboats in specific missions or locations.
Handcar: Manual Rail Vehicle
A manually operated rail vehicle found on certain railway lines, can be used for short-distance travel along tracks.
Civilian & Military Cars/Trucks/Bikes: Land Vehicle (Transport / Light Combat / Utility)
A vast array of cars (sports cars, sedans, beaters), pickup trucks, SUVs, vans, motorcycles, dirt bikes, and larger trucks. Military versions are often armored and may have mounted weapons. Can be hijacked or called in via Rebel Drop.
Tanks & Armored Personnel Carriers (APCs): Land Vehicle (Heavy Combat)
Heavily armored and armed vehicles like tanks (e.g., CS Odjur, Urga Mstitel) and APCs, primarily used by Di Ravello's forces. Rico can hijack and operate these for immense destructive power.
Helicopters (Attack & Transport): Air Vehicle (Combat / Traversal)
Includes attack helicopters armed with missiles and machine guns (e.g., U-7 Dravec, CS Navajo), as well as transport helicopters (e.g., Mugello Pescespada SX). Essential for aerial combat and rapid deployment across Medici's islands.
Fighter Jets & Planes: Air Vehicle (Fast Combat / Traversal)
Fixed-wing aircraft ranging from fighter jets (e.g., CS7 Thunderhawk, U-24 Zabijak - also a weapon) with advanced weaponry to cargo planes (e.g., CS Peregrine) and smaller prop planes. Used for high-speed travel and air-to-ground/air-to-air attacks.
Boats & Naval Craft: Water Vehicle (Transport / Combat)
Various watercraft for navigating Medici's extensive coastlines and seas, including small fishing boats, speedboats (e.g., Pescatore GSL), patrol boats (often armed), and larger military vessels like destroyers (e.g., CS Powerrunner 77).
Includes unique or specialized vehicles like Formula 1 cars (Mugello Vistosa), monster trucks (Urga Pocomotive X), construction vehicles, and the massive land-based 'FOWs' (Forward Operating Bases) which are more like mobile fortresses than simple vehicles.
A heavily upgraded, jet-powered and weaponized wingsuit equipped with Bavarium machine guns and missiles. Allows for sustained flight and aerial combat. Acquired in the 'Sky Fortress' DLC.
Mechs (Mech Land Assault DLC): Bipedal Combat Walker
Controllable Mechs introduced in the 'Mech Land Assault' DLC. Equipped with powerful weapons including the GRIP (gravity gun) for manipulating objects and enemies, and other energy weapons or machine guns.
Ambient Wildlife, Hunting Resource (Pelts, Meat, other parts for crafting, provisions, or sale)
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Story & Characters
Main Characters
Arthur Morgan: Protagonist / Van der Linde Gang Enforcer
The player-controlled character. A loyal, highly capable senior member of the Van der Linde gang since he was a boy. He is Dutch's right-hand man and enforcer, but begins to question Dutch's leadership and his own morality as the gang's situation becomes more desperate. Known for his rugged pragmatism and internal conflict.
Dutch van der Linde: Antagonist / Leader of the Van der Linde Gang
The charismatic, intelligent, and idealistic leader of the gang. He preaches a philosophy of freedom and anti-establishment, but his methods become increasingly violent and his judgment erratic as pressures mount, leading to his descent into paranoia and tyranny.
John Marston: Supporting Character / Van der Linde Gang Member (Protagonist of RDR1)
A fellow gang member, younger than Arthur, with a wife (Abigail) and son (Jack). His desire to leave the outlaw life for his family creates tension within the gang. His story in RDR2 serves as a prequel to his role in the original Red Dead Redemption.
Sadie Adler: Supporting Character / Van der Linde Gang Member (Later Bounty Hunter)
A widow whose ranch is attacked by the O'Driscoll Boys. She is rescued by the Van der Linde gang and evolves from a grieving victim into a fierce, independent gunslinger and bounty hunter, becoming one of Arthur's most trusted allies.
Micah Bell: Antagonist / Van der Linde Gang Member
A volatile, violent, and self-serving newer member of the gang. He encourages Dutch's worst impulses and is a source of internal conflict and distrust, ultimately playing a major antagonistic role.
Hosea Matthews: Supporting Character / Van der Linde Gang Consigliere
Dutch's oldest friend, co-founder of the gang, and its seasoned con artist and strategist. He often serves as a voice of reason and moderation, trying to temper Dutch's recklessness.
Charles Smith: Supporting Character / Van der Linde Gang Member
A quiet, highly skilled hunter and fighter of mixed African American and Native American heritage. He is honorable, principled, and one of Arthur's most dependable allies.
Lenny Summers: Supporting Character / Van der Linde Gang Member
A young, educated, and relatively idealistic member of the gang. Provides some lighter moments and represents a younger generation of outlaws.
Abigail Roberts (Marston): Supporting Character / Van der Linde Gang Member
John Marston's wife and mother of Jack. A strong-willed woman who desires a normal life for her family away from the gang.
Bill Williamson, Javier Escuella, Uncle, Leopold Strauss, Susan Grimshaw, Molly O'Shea, Karen Jones, Mary-Beth Gaskill, Tilly Jackson, Simon Pearson, Josiah Trelawny, Kieran Duffy, Reverend Swanson, Sean MacGuire: Supporting Characters / Van der Linde Gang Members & Associates
The diverse ensemble cast making up the rest of the Van der Linde gang, each with their own personalities, backstories, and roles within the camp and story.
Agent Andrew Milton & Agent Edgar Ross: Antagonists / Pinkerton Detectives
Senior Pinkerton National Detective Agency agents relentlessly pursuing the Van der Linde gang. Milton is the primary pursuer in RDR2, with Ross (antagonist of RDR1) playing a supporting role.
Colm O'Driscoll: Antagonist / Leader of the O'Driscoll Boys Gang
The leader of a rival gang and a long-standing nemesis of Dutch van der Linde.
Rico Rodriguez: Protagonist / Former Agency Operative / 'The Dictator Removal Specialist'
The main playable character. A highly skilled operative with expertise in demolition, combat, and extreme traversal using his grappling hook, wingsuit, and parachute. Returns to his homeland of Medici to liberate it from General Di Ravello.
General Sebastiano Di Ravello: Main Antagonist / Dictator of Medici
The brutal military dictator of Medici who rules with an iron fist and exploits the island's Bavarium resources for his own nefarious purposes. He is Rico's primary target.
Dimah al-Masri: Ally / Scientist
A brilliant scientist who was forced to work for Di Ravello on Bavarium weapons. She defects and aids Rico and the rebellion with her technical expertise and knowledge of Bavarium.
Mario Frigo: Ally / Rebel Leader / Rico's Childhood Friend
Rico's best friend from childhood and a key figure in the Medician rebellion against Di Ravello. Provides Rico with missions and support.
Tom Sheldon: Ally (Ambiguous) / Former Agency Handler
Rico's former Agency handler who appears in Medici with his own agenda, often assisting Rico but with questionable motives. A recurring character in the Just Cause series.
A rebellious smuggler and pilot who assists Rico in the 'Sky Fortress' DLC against the eDEN Corporation and their Sky Sentinels.
Rosa Manuela: Ally / Rebel Propagandist
A voice for the rebellion, often heard on radio broadcasts, inspiring the people of Medici to rise up against Di Ravello.
Zeno Antithikara (Mentioned): Scientist / Creator of Bavarium tech (Deceased)
A scientist who pioneered Bavarium technology and was Dimah's mentor. His work was twisted by Di Ravello.
Example Missions
Main Story Chapters (I-VI & Epilogue I-II)
A series of interconnected story missions that form the main narrative arc, chronicling the Van der Linde gang's struggles, heists, internal conflicts, and Arthur Morgan's personal journey. Each chapter is typically set in a new region or marks a significant shift in the gang's circumstances.
Stranger Missions (Side Storylines)
Optional multi-part questlines initiated by unique 'Stranger' characters encountered throughout the world. These often feature distinct stories, memorable characters, and unique rewards (e.g., missions for Hamish Sinclair, Charlotte Balfour, Albert Mason, Francis Sinclair).
Bounty Hunting Missions
Pick up bounty posters from sheriff's offices in various towns. Track down and capture (alive for a higher reward) or kill wanted criminals. Some bounties involve unique encounters or storylines.
Chance Encounters (Random Events)
Dynamic, unscripted events that occur as Arthur explores the world. These can include ambushes, people needing help (e.g., snake bite victims, stranded travelers), animal attacks, duels, or interactions with other outlaws. Choices made in these encounters can affect Honor.
Companion Activities & Camp Requests
Engage in optional activities with gang members at camp, such as playing poker or five finger fillet, going fishing or hunting with them, or fulfilling their item requests (e.g., finding a specific book or herb). These build camaraderie and provide small rewards or insights into characters.
Debt Collection (Leopold Strauss Missions)
Missions given by the gang's moneylender, Leopold Strauss, where Arthur must collect outstanding debts from vulnerable individuals, often through intimidation or force. These missions highlight the darker aspects of the gang's activities and impact Arthur's Honor.
Legendary Animal & Fish Hunts
Track and hunt unique Legendary Animals or catch Legendary Fish. These are challenging encounters requiring specific approaches. Their pelts/parts are used to craft unique outfits, gear, talismans, and trinkets at the Trapper or Fence.
Home Robberies, Stagecoach Robberies, Train Robberies (Incidental & Mission-based)
Opportunities to rob homesteads, stagecoaches, or trains for money and valuables. Some are specific missions, while others can be initiated by the player in the open world. These actions typically result in a bounty and decreased Honor.
Main Story Campaign (Liberating Medici)
A series of narrative missions following Rico Rodriguez's efforts to overthrow General Di Ravello and free his homeland of Medici. This involves destabilizing Di Ravello's regime by destroying his military infrastructure, rescuing key allies like Dimah al-Masri, and ultimately confronting the General himself.
Province Liberation
Systematically liberating all settlements and military bases within each province of Medici's three main regions (Insula Fonte, Insula Dracon, Insula Striate). This is achieved by destroying all designated "Chaos Objects" (e.g., propaganda speakers, statues, fuel tanks, military hardware) in each location. Liberating provinces unlocks new missions, challenges, Rebel Drops, and fast travel points.
Challenges (Various Types)
Completing numerous optional challenges scattered across Medici. These include: Destruction Frenzies (cause as much damage as possible with a specific weapon/vehicle), Races (car, boat, plane), Wingsuit Courses, Scrapyard Scrambles (collecting Bavarium), Crash Bomb challenges, and Shooting Galleries. Achieving high scores (gears) unlocks Gear Mods.
Random Encounters / Encounters of Chance
Dynamic, short events that occur as Rico explores Medici, such as helping stranded rebels, defending rebel outposts, or intercepting Di Ravello's couriers. These provide small rewards and Chaos points.
Ancient Tomb Exploration
Finding and exploring 23 hidden Ancient Tombs. Activating the altar in each tomb lights a candle, and lighting all of them unlocks the U-24 Zabijak, a unique mortar-like shotgun.
Sky Fortress DLC Campaign
A new storyline where Rico, with the help of Annika Svensson, infiltrates the massive Sky Fortress airship and battles the eDEN Corporation's forces and their advanced drone technology, utilizing the new Bavarium Wingsuit.
Mech Land Assault DLC Campaign
Rico travels to the new island of Lacrima to liberate it from The Black Hand, who are harvesting Bavarium with powerful Mechs. Players can pilot these Mechs, equipped with GRIP gravity guns and other weapons.
Bavarium Sea Heist DLC Campaign
Rico infiltrates Di Ravello's secret offshore Bavarium research facility, 'The Stingray,' utilizing a new heavily armed rocket boat ('Loochador') and acquiring the Eden Spark lightning gun.
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Multiplayer
Multiplayer Details
N/A
Just Cause 3 is officially a single-player only experience. While Avalanche Studios did not develop official multiplayer, a popular fan-made multiplayer mod was created and released for the PC version by the modding community, enabling unofficial online experiences.
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Editions & DLC
Available Editions
Available in Standard Edition, Special Edition (included extra story mode content like a bank robbery mission, gang hideout, gameplay boosts, an outfit, and a thoroughbred horse), and Ultimate Edition (included Special Edition content plus bonus Red Dead Online content like outfits, rank bonuses, a black chestnut thoroughbred, and free access to additional weapons). A Collector's Box (no game included) was also sold with physical collectibles.
Just Cause 3 was released with a Standard Edition and a Day One Edition (included Weaponized Vehicle Pack). The XL Edition bundled the base game with the 'Air, Land & Sea Expansion Pass.' The XXL Edition (often available digitally) typically includes the base game, the Air, Land & Sea Expansion Pass, the Weaponized Vehicle Pack, and the Explosive Weapon Pack.
Post-Launch Content / DLC
The primary post-launch support has been for Red Dead Online, which has received numerous updates adding new roles (Bounty Hunter, Trader, Collector, Moonshiner, Naturalist), missions, cosmetic items, gameplay mechanics, and seasonal events. No single-player story DLC has been released for Red Dead Redemption 2.
The primary post-launch content was the 'Air, Land & Sea Expansion Pass,' which included three major story-driven DLCs: 'Sky Fortress' (introducing a jet-powered, weaponized Bavarium Wingsuit and missions against aerial Sky Sentinels), 'Mech Land Assault' (allowing players to pilot powerful Mechs equipped with gravity guns on the new island of Lacrima), and 'Bavarium Sea Heist' (featuring a heavily armed rocket boat, the 'Loochador,' the Eden Spark lightning gun, and missions against Di Ravello's offshore Bavarium research facility, The Stingray).
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FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Red Dead Redemption 2 a prequel or sequel to Red Dead Redemption? A: Red Dead Redemption 2 is a prequel to the original Red Dead Redemption. It tells the story of the Van der Linde gang, including a younger John Marston (protagonist of RDR1), before the events of the first game.
Q: Can I play as John Marston in Red Dead Redemption 2? A: You primarily play as Arthur Morgan for most of the main story. However, John Marston becomes playable during the game's extensive epilogue chapters, which bridge the gap to the original Red Dead Redemption.
Q: How long is Red Dead Redemption 2's story? A: The main story campaign is exceptionally long, typically taking players 50-60 hours to complete. Exploring all side content, collectibles, and aiming for 100% completion can easily extend playtime to 150-200+ hours.
Q: What is the Honor System? A: The Honor system tracks Arthur's moral choices and actions throughout the game. Positive actions (helping strangers, sparing enemies) increase honor, while negative actions (killing innocents, robbing) decrease it. Honor level affects dialogue, store discounts, outfit unlocks, how NPCs react to Arthur, and has minor impacts on the story's ending.
Q: Is Red Dead Online still active? A: Yes, Red Dead Online is still active and receives periodic updates, though major content additions have slowed compared to its initial years. It offers a persistent multiplayer world with various activities, roles, and missions.
Q: Can you play RDR2 in first-person? A: Yes, Red Dead Redemption 2 offers a fully implemented first-person mode, allowing players to experience the entire game from Arthur's perspective. This can be toggled on and off at any time.
Q: When was Just Cause 3 released? A: Just Cause 3 was released on December 1, 2015, for PC (Windows), PlayStation 4, and Xbox One.
Q: Who is the main character in Just Cause 3? A: The protagonist is Rico Rodriguez, the series' recurring hero, known for his expertise with the grappling hook, wingsuit, parachute, and causing spectacular destruction.
Q: What is the setting of Just Cause 3? A: The game is set in Medici, a fictional Mediterranean island republic, Rico's homeland, which is under the oppressive rule of dictator General Sebastiano Di Ravello.
Q: What are the key traversal tools in Just Cause 3? A: Rico's signature tools are the Grappling Hook (for tethering objects and quick movement), the Wingsuit (for high-speed gliding), and the Parachute (for controlled descent and aerial combat). These can be used in combination for dynamic traversal.
Q: How does liberation work in Just Cause 3? A: Players liberate provinces by destroying specific "Chaos Objects" (e.g., propaganda billboards, statues, fuel tanks, military installations) within enemy-controlled settlements and military bases. This inspires the local population to join the rebellion.
Q: Does Just Cause 3 have multiplayer? A: Officially, Just Cause 3 is a single-player game. However, a popular fan-made multiplayer mod was developed for the PC version, allowing for unofficial online experiences.
Q: What major DLCs are available for Just Cause 3? A: The 'Air, Land & Sea Expansion Pass' included three major DLCs: 'Sky Fortress' (introducing a jet-powered, weaponized Bavarium Wingsuit and missions against Sky Sentinels), 'Mech Land Assault' (allowing players to pilot powerful Mechs on the new island of Lacrima), and 'Bavarium Sea Heist' (featuring a rocket boat, the Eden Spark lightning gun, and missions against The Stingray battleship).
Q: What are Gear Mods in Just Cause 3? A: Gear Mods are upgrades for Rico's abilities and equipment, unlocked by completing various challenges throughout Medici. They are categorized into Tethers, Traversal, Destruction, Weapons, and Vehicles, allowing players to customize aspects like tether strength, grenade capacity, or wingsuit agility.
build
Technical Details
Graphics & Visual Fidelity
Powered by an advanced version of the RAGE engine, RDR2 is renowned for its groundbreaking graphics and attention to detail. It features stunningly realistic environments, lifelike character and animal animations, advanced lighting (volumetric lighting, global illumination), dynamic weather systems (rain, snow, fog), and incredible texture quality. The level of environmental detail and interaction is exceptionally high.
Utilizes the Apex Engine (Avalanche Engine) to render the large Mediterranean archipelago of Medici with diverse environments, from sunny beaches to snowy mountains. Known for its impressive physics-based destruction, allowing for creative demolition of structures and military assets. Visuals focus on vibrant colors and spectacular explosive effects.
Audio & Soundtrack
Original score composed by Woody Jackson, with contributions from various artists. The music is dynamic, reacting to gameplay and location, featuring sweeping orchestral pieces, folk tunes, and atmospheric tracks that perfectly capture the Western setting and emotional tone. Features over 100 anachronistically appropriate licensed songs. Sound design is incredibly detailed, from weapon sounds and horse hooves to ambient wildlife and environmental effects.
Features an orchestral score composed by Henry Jackman, with additional music by Just Cause series composers. The music dynamically adapts to the on-screen chaos and action. Sound design emphasizes large-scale explosions, vehicle sounds, and weapon effects fitting the game's destructive nature.
User Interface (UI/UX)
Immersive UI with options for a dynamic HUD. Health/Stamina/Dead Eye cores are displayed, along with a radar/mini-map. Weapon wheel for selection. Interaction prompts are contextual. The game features a detailed journal kept by Arthur, cataloging his thoughts, sketches, and discoveries. First-person mode offers a different UI perspective.
The UI features a minimalist design to keep the focus on the action. Key elements include a map of Medici, objective markers, ammo/health indicators, a gear mod selection interface, and contextual prompts for grappling, parachuting, and wingsuiting. A 'Chaos' meter tracks destruction, unlocking missions and items.
Accessibility Options
Includes options for customizable controls (including sensitivity and dead zones), subtitle customization (size, background, speaker names), aim assist levels, options to tap or hold for interactions, colorblind modes, audio balancing, and a cinematic camera mode. First-person mode can also be considered an accessibility option for some.
Just Cause 3 includes standard accessibility options for its time, such as subtitle display (on/off), remappable controls (keyboard & mouse, controller support), separate volume controls for master audio, music, SFX, and voice. Options like aim assist toggle and adjustable sensitivity are also present. Advanced features like colorblind modes or extensive UI scaling were not prominent.
720p (HD) - Minimum (Target: 720p-1080p, Low-Medium settings, ~30 FPS)(Low to Medium Preset.)
CPU: Minimum desktop CPU.
CPU (Laptop): Estimated laptop CPU. Performance depends heavily on specific model's sustained clocks and cooling.
GPU: Minimum desktop GPU with 2GB VRAM.
GPU (Laptop): Targets playable framerates at 720p Low or 1080p very Low. **2GB VRAM is an absolute minimum and may require texture compromises.** Performance highly variable based on specific laptop GPU model and TGP.
RAM: 6GB-8GB RAM. Dual-channel configuration highly recommended.
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memoryCPU: Intel Core i5-2500K, 3.3 GHz or AMD Phenom II X6 1075T 3.0 GHz
developer_boardGPU: NVIDIA GeForce GTX 670 (2GB VRAM) or AMD Radeon HD 7870 (2GB VRAM)
laptop_macCPU (L): Intel Core i5-4200M / AMD A10-7400P or newer mobile CPUs with at least 2 cores/4 threads. An Intel Core i5 U-series (6th gen+) or Ryzen 3 U-series (2000 series+) would be better.
laptop_windowsGPU (L): NVIDIA GeForce GTX 860M (2GB), NVIDIA GeForce 940MX (GDDR5, 2GB); OR AMD Radeon R7 M440 (4GB, performance may vary). A GTX 960M (2GB/4GB) or GTX 1050 Laptop (2GB/4GB) would be a more comfortable minimum.
layersRAM: 8 GB
saveStorage (Tier): 54 GB available space (SSD Recommended)
laptop_windowsGPU (L): NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1660 Ti Mobile (6GB) / RTX 2060 Mobile (6GB) / RTX 3060 Mobile (6GB, High TGP) or AMD Radeon RX 5600M/5700M. **An RTX 3060 Mobile (High TGP) or RTX 4060 Mobile is a good target for 1080p High 60FPS.**
CPU: Recommended desktop CPU.
CPU (Laptop): Recommended laptop CPU for a solid 1080p experience at higher settings.
GPU: Recommended desktop GPU for 1080p High with 3GB+ VRAM.
GPU (Laptop): Targets ~60 FPS at 1080p High. **Ensure adequate TGP for NVIDIA cards.** 3GB VRAM is a minimum for this tier on laptops, 4GB+ strongly recommended for smoother performance.
RAM: 8GB RAM in dual-channel strongly recommended for optimal performance.
laptop_windowsGPU (L): NVIDIA GeForce GTX 970M (3GB/6GB), NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1060 Max-Q (3GB/6GB), NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1650 Laptop (4GB); OR AMD Radeon RX 470 Mobile / RX 570 Mobile (4GB).
layersRAM: 8 GB
saveStorage (Tier): 54 GB available space (SSD Recommended)
1080p (Full HD) - Minimum (1080p ~30 FPS, Low/Medium Preset)(Low to Medium Preset)
CPU: Minimum desktop CPU for 1080p at lower settings.
CPU (Laptop): Estimated laptop CPU equivalent. Newer i5/Ryzen 5 H-series or better recommended.
GPU: Minimum desktop GPU for 1080p at lower settings.
GPU (Laptop): Estimated laptop GPUs. Game is very VRAM intensive.
RAM: Minimum RAM requirement.
Storage: HDD is absolute minimum, expect long load times.
laptop_windowsGPU (L): NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1050 Ti Mobile (4GB) / GTX 1650 Mobile (4GB) or AMD Radeon RX 560X Mobile. **An RTX 3050 Mobile or RTX 4050 Mobile would be a more comfortable entry point for 1080p Medium settings.**
layersRAM: 8 GB
saveStorage (Tier): 150 GB HDD
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1440p (QHD/2K) - High (1440p ~60 FPS, High/Ultra Preset with DLSS/Optimized Settings)(High/Ultra Preset (Optimized, DLSS Quality/Balanced potentially needed))
CPU: Desktop CPU for 1440p at 60 FPS.
CPU (Laptop): Estimated high-end laptop CPUs.
GPU: Desktop GPU for 1440p at 60 FPS.
GPU (Laptop): Estimated high-performance laptop GPUs. 8GB+ VRAM essential, 10GB+ preferable.
RAM: 16GB RAM required, 32GB recommended for smoother experience.
Storage: NVMe SSD strongly recommended.
memoryCPU: Intel Core i7-8700K or AMD Ryzen 7 3700X/5600X
laptop_windowsGPU (L): NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3070 Mobile (8GB, High TGP) / RTX 4070 Mobile (8GB, High TGP) or AMD Radeon RX 6800M. **An RTX 3080 Mobile or RTX 4080 Mobile provides a more consistent 1440p High/Ultra experience.**
laptop_windowsGPU (L): NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3080 Ti Mobile (16GB, Max TGP) / RTX 4080 Mobile (12GB, Max TGP) / RTX 4090 Mobile (16GB, Max TGP). **Even the RTX 4090 Mobile will heavily rely on DLSS (Performance/Ultra Performance) for 4K High/Ultra at 60FPS. A hypothetical next-gen flagship (RTX 50-series) would aim for better native 4K capabilities.**
layersRAM: 16 GB
saveStorage (Tier): 150 GB NVMe SSD
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save Overall Storage
Spec: 150 GB available space (SSD Strongly Recommended). Note: An NVMe SSD is highly recommended for the best experience due to the vast world and high-resolution assets. Type: SSD
Spec: 54 GB available space (SSD Recommended) Note: An SSD is recommended for faster loading times, particularly when fast-traveling or respawning in the large world. Type: SSD
desktop_windows Operating System
Spec: Windows 7 (SP1), Windows 10 (Version 1803 or newer) Explanation: 64-bit Windows 7 or newer. Windows 10/11 64-bit recommended for best compatibility and performance.
Spec: Windows Vista SP2 / Windows 7 SP1 / Windows 8.1 (64-bit Operating System Required) Explanation: A 64-bit version of Windows Vista SP2, 7 SP1, 8.1, 10, or 11 is required.
gamepad DirectX Version
Spec: DirectX 12 (Vulkan also supported and often preferred for performance on AMD GPUs) Explanation: DirectX 12 or Vulkan API. Players can often choose between them.
N/A
info_outline Other Game Notes
Official system requirements from Rockstar Games (PC version). Performance can vary depending on specific hardware, settings, and background applications. An SSD is strongly recommended for optimal performance due to the game's massive world and detailed textures.
Laptop Performance Note: Laptop models of listed desktop GPUs may work if their performance is comparable, but TGP (Total Graphics Power) and cooling are extremely critical for this demanding title. **This is one of the most graphically intensive games available, and high-end laptop hardware is required for enjoyable experiences at higher settings.**
Laptop Consideration: G P U T G P: Maximum TGP is crucial for performance.
Laptop Consideration: Cooling Thermals: Excellent cooling is essential to prevent severe thermal throttling.
Laptop Consideration: C P U Power Limits: Laptops with sustained high CPU power limits will perform better.
Laptop Consideration: R A M Speed Dual Channel: Fast dual-channel RAM significantly benefits performance.
Laptop Consideration: M U X Switch Optimus: Using a MUX switch or NVIDIA Advanced Optimus is highly recommended for optimal framerates.
Optimization Detail: Upscaling Tech: Supports NVIDIA DLSS. AMD FSR support may vary or require mods depending on game version/updates.
Optimization Detail: Key Settings Impact: Texture Quality, MSAA (very demanding), Reflection Quality, Water Quality, Volumetric Quality, Shadow Quality, TAA Sharpening, and advanced graphics settings like Tree Tessellation and Grass Shadows heavily impact performance. Finding a balance is key.
Game Name: Red Dead Redemption 2
Official PC system requirements for 'Just Cause 3' (released in 2015). An SSD is recommended for better loading times. These requirements reflect hardware from that era and are modest by today's standards.
Laptop Performance Note: Just Cause 3, with its large open world and emphasis on physics-based destruction, can still be somewhat demanding, especially during intense chaotic sequences. For a good laptop experience, a gaming laptop with a dedicated GPU from its release era or newer is recommended. Laptop GPUs and CPUs perform differently than desktop equivalents. **Performance can vary based on the specific laptop model's TGP, cooling, and overall system configuration.**
Laptop Consideration: G P U T G P Impact: While less of a factor than with modern high-wattage GPUs, ensuring the laptop GPU receives adequate power for its class is still important.
Laptop Consideration: Advanced Cooling Thermals: Good cooling helps maintain consistent performance, especially in a game known for numerous explosions and physics calculations that can tax the system.
Laptop Consideration: C P U Performance Sustain: A capable mobile CPU is needed to handle the open-world streaming and physics calculations without significant bottlenecks.
Laptop Consideration: R A M Configuration Speed: 8GB in dual-channel is recommended. While the game might run on 6GB, 8GB provides a much smoother experience.
Laptop Consideration: Display Panel G P U Pairing: Most laptops aiming for these specs will target 1080p. The GPU should be sufficient for this resolution at desired settings.
Laptop Consideration: Driver Updates O S Optimization: Using reasonably up-to-date GPU drivers and a well-maintained OS is beneficial for stability.
Optimization Detail: A P I Choice: The game primarily uses DirectX 11.
Optimization Detail: Key Settings Impact: Resolution, Texture Quality, Shadow Quality, LOD Detail, Water Quality, Anti-Aliasing, and Effects Quality (especially particles and explosions) significantly impact performance.
Game Name: Just Cause 3
build Optimization Details
Upscaling Tech: Supports NVIDIA DLSS. AMD FSR support may vary or require mods depending on game version/updates.
Key Settings Impact: Texture Quality, MSAA (very demanding), Reflection Quality, Water Quality, Volumetric Quality, Shadow Quality, TAA Sharpening, and advanced graphics settings like Tree Tessellation and Grass Shadows heavily impact performance. Finding a balance is key.
A P I Choice: The game primarily uses DirectX 11.
Key Settings Impact: Resolution, Texture Quality, Shadow Quality, LOD Detail, Water Quality, Anti-Aliasing, and Effects Quality (especially particles and explosions) significantly impact performance.
laptop Laptop Considerations
G P U T G P: Maximum TGP is crucial for performance.
Cooling Thermals: Excellent cooling is essential to prevent severe thermal throttling.
C P U Power Limits: Laptops with sustained high CPU power limits will perform better.
R A M Speed Dual Channel: Fast dual-channel RAM significantly benefits performance.
M U X Switch Optimus: Using a MUX switch or NVIDIA Advanced Optimus is highly recommended for optimal framerates.
G P U T G P Impact: While less of a factor than with modern high-wattage GPUs, ensuring the laptop GPU receives adequate power for its class is still important.
Advanced Cooling Thermals: Good cooling helps maintain consistent performance, especially in a game known for numerous explosions and physics calculations that can tax the system.
C P U Performance Sustain: A capable mobile CPU is needed to handle the open-world streaming and physics calculations without significant bottlenecks.
R A M Configuration Speed: 8GB in dual-channel is recommended. While the game might run on 6GB, 8GB provides a much smoother experience.
Display Panel G P U Pairing: Most laptops aiming for these specs will target 1080p. The GPU should be sufficient for this resolution at desired settings.
Driver Updates O S Optimization: Using reasonably up-to-date GPU drivers and a well-maintained OS is beneficial for stability.
info_outline
Laptop recommendations are estimates based on available component benchmarks and game requirements.
Actual performance may vary depending on settings, drivers, cooling, power limits, etc.
Prices and availability subject to change. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.