Red Dead Redemption 2 is known for its incredible attention to detail and immersive open world. But how much of what players believe about the game is actually true? In this epic myth-busting adventure, we put 50 popular theories and claims about RDR2 to the test. From physics defying stunts to wildlife behavior, we left no stone unturned in our quest to separate fact from fiction in the Wild West.

The Great Bridge Jump

One of the most daring myths we tackled was the idea that you can chop off a bridge and land safely on a moving boat below. Despite our best efforts, this Hollywood-style stunt proved to be just that – pure fiction. Our attempts ended with an unceremonious splash in the water, proving that even in the world of RDR2, some laws of physics still apply.

Locked Doors and Bullets

A common belief among players is that you can unlock a locked door simply by shooting at it. Armed with an AK-47, we put this theory to the test. Unfortunately for would-be burglars, this myth was quickly busted. It seems that in the world of Red Dead, good old-fashioned lockpicking still reigns supreme.

Fishing in Polluted Waters

With the game’s emphasis on environmental interaction, we wondered if fish in polluted waters would indeed be poisoned. After some patient angling, we managed to catch a fish from visibly contaminated water. Lo and behold, the fish was indeed poisoned, confirming this particular piece of in-game realism.

UFO Hunting

The presence of UFOs in RDR2 has been a topic of much speculation. We attempted to shoot down one of these elusive crafts, but our efforts proved futile. It seems the extraterrestrial visitors to the Old West are impervious to conventional weapons.

Horse Mechanics

Several myths revolved around horse behavior in the game. We discovered that horses cannot drown in deep water, as they always manage to swim back to shore. However, the claim that horses will throw you off if you sit on them for too long was debunked after a lengthy riding session.

Lightning Strikes and Animals

While it’s known that Arthur can be struck by lightning, we tested whether animals could suffer the same fate. Our experiment confirmed that animals can indeed be struck by lightning, adding another layer of environmental danger to the game world.

Fire and Water Dynamics

We tested several myths related to fire and water interactions. Interestingly, we found that you can indeed survive being set on fire by quickly jumping into water. However, the same trick doesn’t work with snow – jumping into a snowbank while ablaze won’t save you from burns.

Temperature Changes

In a nod to realism, we confirmed that the temperature in the game does change with altitude. As we climbed a mountain, we watched the temperature drop significantly, reflecting real-world physics.

Creative Combat

Some of the more outlandish combat myths provided mixed results. We successfully killed two animals with a single arrow, and even managed three – though four proved to be beyond the game’s capabilities. We also confirmed that you can kick people (and animals) while on horseback, adding another tool to your combat repertoire.

Environmental Interactions

The game’s detailed world led to several interesting confirmations. We found that you can indeed set your lasso on fire (though it’s not easy), and that fire arrows don’t work effectively on snow. We also discovered that horses will break free from wagons in deep water, adding a layer of realism to water crossings.

Mythical Creatures

In a nod to cryptozoology enthusiasts, we confirmed that you can find the bones of Bigfoot in the game, fueling further speculation about the creature’s existence in the RDR2 universe.

NPC Behavior

Several myths centered around NPC (Non-Player Character) behavior. We found that NPCs won’t go into water even if they’re on fire, but shopkeepers will return with bandages the day after being shot. We also discovered that hogtied NPCs won’t escape an approaching train – a grim detail for those with a penchant for villainy.

Weapon Mechanics

Our testing revealed several interesting weapon interactions. Cannon bullets, surprisingly, won’t penetrate newspapers or instruments. However, arrows will go straight through newspapers, demonstrating some inconsistency in the game’s object penetration mechanics.

Fishing with Firearms

In one of the more unusual confirmations, we found that you can indeed catch fish by shooting into the water. While not the most sporting method, it certainly proves effective in a pinch.

Underwater Warfare

Pushing the boundaries of aquatic combat, we confirmed that cannons can be fired underwater. This unlikely scenario adds a surreal element to the game’s otherwise realistic world.

Throughout our myth-busting journey, we encountered a mix of confirmed facts, busted myths, and a few surprises that defy easy categorization. From the realistic (temperature changes with altitude) to the fantastical (UFO sightings), Red Dead Redemption 2 continues to offer a rich tapestry of experiences that blur the line between reality and video game fiction.

This exploration not only entertains but also highlights the incredible depth and attention to detail that Rockstar Games has poured into RDR2. Whether you’re a seasoned player or new to the game, there’s always something new to discover in this vast, immersive world.

As we conclude our myth-busting adventure, one thing becomes clear: Red Dead Redemption 2 is a game that continues to surprise and delight, with enough depth and complexity to keep players guessing and exploring for years to come.

FAQ: 50 Myths Busted in Red Dead Redemption 2

Analysis and Insights:

The Process of Myth-Busting in RDR2

Myth-busting in Red Dead Redemption 2 is not just about confirming or debunking popular beliefs; it’s an exploration of the game’s intricate systems and the developers’ attention to detail. This process reveals several interesting aspects of the game:

1. Realistic Physics vs. Game Logic:
   Many of the myths tested highlight the delicate balance between realistic physics and game-specific logic. For instance, while the game accurately represents temperature changes with altitude, it also allows for some physics-defying actions like underwater cannon fire. This balance keeps the game grounded in reality while still allowing for entertaining gameplay elements.
2. Environmental Interactions:
   The myth-busting process showcases the depth of environmental interactions in RDR2. From fire behavior on different surfaces to the effects of polluted water on wildlife, these details contribute significantly to the game’s immersive quality.
3. NPC Behavior Patterns:
   Testing myths related to NPC actions provides insight into the complex AI systems at work in the game. While some behaviors are surprisingly realistic (like shopkeepers returning with bandages), others are more limited (like NPCs not seeking water when on fire), possibly due to game design constraints.
4. Combat and Weapon Mechanics:
   The varied results of weapon-related myths demonstrate the nuanced approach to combat in RDR2. The ability to perform actions like kicking from horseback or killing multiple animals with one arrow adds depth to the gameplay, while limitations on certain actions (like shooting through specific objects) maintain game balance.
5. Easter Eggs and Mysteries:
   Confirming myths like the presence of Bigfoot bones highlights the game’s rich tapestry of hidden content and mysteries. These elements encourage exploration and keep players engaged long after the main story is completed.
6. Consistency and Inconsistencies:
   While many game mechanics are consistently applied, the myth-busting process also reveals some inconsistencies. For example, the different penetration capabilities of cannon balls versus arrows through newspapers. These inconsistencies can sometimes break immersion but also add to the charm and quirkiness of the game world.

The Impact of Myth-Busting on Player Experience

Engaging in myth-busting activities can significantly enhance the player experience in several ways:

1. Encourages Exploration: Players are motivated to explore every nook and cranny of the game world to test various theories and find hidden features.
2. Deepens Appreciation: Understanding the intricate systems and attention to detail fosters a deeper appreciation for the game developers’ work.
3. Community Building: Sharing myth-busting results creates a sense of community among players as they collectively uncover the game’s secrets.
4. Extends Gameplay: The process of testing myths provides additional gameplay value beyond the main story and side missions.
5. Inspires Creativity: Confirmed myths often inspire players to find creative solutions to in-game challenges or create their own unique gameplay moments.

Conclusion

The process of busting 50 myths in Red Dead Redemption 2 reveals a game world that is rich, complex, and full of surprises. It highlights Rockstar Games’ commitment to creating a deeply immersive experience that rewards curiosity and experimentation. While not every myth holds true, each test provides valuable insight into the game’s mechanics and design philosophy.

For players, this myth-busting journey serves as an invitation to look beyond the surface, to question assumptions, and to engage with the game world in new and exciting ways. It reminds us that even years after its release, Red Dead Redemption 2 continues to offer new discoveries and experiences for those willing to explore its vast and detailed world.

Whether you’re a casual player or a dedicated fan, the results of these myth-busting experiments offer a fresh perspective on the game, potentially inspiring new playstyles, challenges, and adventures in the wild west of Red Dead Redemption 2.