Ever since video games evolved into a medium of storytelling, character development has become an essential part of their narrative. Among the pantheon of these well-developed video game characters, one stands tall: Arthur Morgan from Red Dead Redemption 2. Rockstar Games made him different from the typical fantasy, tough-guy, “save the world” hero. In fact, one of the reasons he is considered one of the greatest is that he is genuine and relatable to the player.
Unlike other protagonists, he develops into more of a human than just a video game character. He has inner conflicts to settle, he expresses his thoughts and emotions, and he acknowledges real companionship over individual strength. These are why Red Dead Redemption 2 is a must-play, as you are not just playing a game, but experiencing the world and life of a well-written fictional character, Arthur Morgan.
A Man of Contradictions
Most games revolve around showing the protagonist as a purposeful and determined guy. On the other hand, Arthur Morgan breaks this stigma as being a conflicted and growing man. One time, he is cold-hearted, selfish, and brutal. There are missions wherein he has to forcefully collect debt money despite the debtors’ inability to pay. It usually ends up with the debts being paid one way or another.
Then, there are times when Arthur is deep in thought and displays his cognition. Main quests often end with sequences where he is thinking about his and the players’ actions. His wisdom is evident from his journal, which is full of appreciation of good things and guilt over bad things. He is an outlaw who is capable of evil deeds, but he eventually grows more into a scholar than a mere criminal.
Arthur’s conflicting side is often seen whenever he is with Dutch van der Linde. As Dutch’s most trusted and capable son, he has these expectations of him being loyal and obedient to Dutch. He is ever-present in Dutch’s exploits and constantly states his faith and has Dutch’s back. He eventually realizes the morality of his loyalty to Dutch as Arthur evolves from being a merciless, faithful brute to a free-thinking figure who realizes the potential repercussions.
The Power of Vulnerability
Arthur Morgan is not perfect, but that doesn’t ruin him, as it is what makes him authentic. Contrary to nonchalant, robotic husks of other video game characters, he demonstrates his emotions even among other people. This protagonist admits his fear, doubt, guilt, and his longing for solidarity. He is physically strong and an exceptional marksman, but his actual strength comes from being vulnerable to letting out what he feels instead of bottling it.
This vulnerability happened to be more clear when Arthur was diagnosed with Tuberculosis. During the time this game took place, TB is incurable, and death is gradual but certain. His body started to grow ill with the constant coughing in-game and within cutscenes. This illness continued to make him weak; however, it gave him the strength to make up for his sinful past and foresee the future of the people he cares for.
Relationships That Matter
Arthur Morgan didn’t just develop intra-personally, but also interpersonally. His relationships used to form from mutual benefits as an outlaw, but soon, only relationships that were forged through camaraderie and authentic feelings lasted. Initially, he was spiteful of John Marston, even hesitant to save him in the harsh, snowy mountains. Nevertheless, during his final moments, Arthur’s wish is for John and his family to get out of the life of being an outlaw and live a normal life together.
Despite being raised as a stone-cold fugitive, Arthur gradually became a selfless, good Samaritan. While constantly being hunted by the authorities, he often thinks of others’ survival more than his own. He forsook a chance to live with Mary Linton, just to see his gang members' welfare and ensure that Mary wouldn’t be punished for living with a wanted man. Additionally, he cared for the well-being of the Indians despite them being Dutch’s “distraction” for the gang’s survival.
Aside from strengthening bonds, Arthur recognizes when it is time to cut loose unhealthy relationships. He is Dutch’s right-hand man and the gang’s second in charge; however, he is always the first to question Dutch's plans. He even encouraged other gang members to leave the group in case Dutch’s plans turn out badly. He is faithful, but not blind enough to overlook his people for Dutch's bidding.
A Cowboy’s Enduring Impact
Arthur Morgan is proof that well-written video game characters can be as inspiring as characters from other storytelling media. Red Dead Redemption 2 hits hard because it feels like we are experiencing his life story. Even with the game's 1900s setting, modern gamers can still relate to his conflicts, emotions, and relationships. Ironically, these imperfections of his are what encourage people from playing this masterpiece.
Rockstar Games is no stranger to criminals trying to repent from their sinful pasts. Arthur Morgan is no different from them; however, he has more depth in his personality and expresses real humanity. He is a role model who teaches us that our sinful pasts don't define us, but the collective good deeds we do throughout our lives and in the future. Conclusively, he proves that among shining knights and heroes who chase glory, an outlaw trying to make the best out of his final moments can be as, if not more than, impactful to players.
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