Story, World & Core Themes
Explore the narrative, setting, and ideas that shape Red Dead Redemption.
Story
High-level synopsis and narrative focus.
Red Dead Redemption is an epic Western action-adventure game series set in the declining days of the American frontier, following outlaws struggling to survive in a changing world.
World
Setting, cultures, and distinctive elements.
The dying days of the American Wild West, where outlaws and gunslingers struggle to survive against the encroachment of civilization and law enforcement.
The End of the Outlaw Era: The age of outlaws is coming to an end. Loyalty to the gang is paramount, but internal betrayal and external threats loom large.
Redemption: Redemption is possible, but the past always catches up.
The declining American Frontier (1899-1911), spanning fictional states like New Hanover, Lemoyne, and West Elizabeth that mirror the real American West and South. The world features diverse landscapes ranging from snowy mountains and swampy bayous to dry deserts and industrializing cities like Saint Denis.
Themes
Core ideas and recurring motifs.
Redemption and morality, Loyalty vs. betrayal, Civilization vs. wilderness, Family bonds, Consequences of violence