Given that the original Red Dead Redemption is back in a big way with a brand-new re-release, fans are looking back at the series to see how it connects. The most obvious thread is the original hero, John Marston, and the sequel protagonist, Arthur Morgan, who went through quite a bit together.

YouTuber Indo-J also thinks they found a startling revelation from the original game that the sequel likely references. I have to say, the evidence is overwhelming.

Is Arthur Morgan In The First Red Dead Redemption?

This Saga Spans A Lot Of Sorrow

While Arthur Morgan isn’t present in the original Red Dead Redemption, one user thinks that he is directly mentioned. In passing, NPC Bonnie MacFarlane has a conversation with protagonist John Marston about life.

John mentions the phrase “a change of pasture doesn’t always make for a fatter calf,” which is essentially another form of “the grass is always greener on the other side.” While the NPC says that she doesn’t regret her life, she wishes she were braver and had “been to more places, and seen more things.” In this pivotal moment, John says, “It usually takes more strength to stay than to run, Miss MacFarlane.”

The video then cuts to a crucial scene from Red Dead Redemption 2, where Arthur Morgan refuses to run, and saves John’s life. “We ain’t both gonna make it,” Arthur says, holding off an encroaching force to help John escape and get back to his family. “You’re my brother,” John replies. These two have been through a lot together, and Arthur’s journey and choices shaped the man John becomes later on down the line.

Arthur’s Presence Is Definitely Felt

This Gang Has Bonds

John’s overall demeanor and attitude toward life seem to be affected by this moment, when Arthur sacrificed himself to save him. To say that Arthur Morgan had an impact on the original game, despite not being physically present, is an understatement.

Red Dead Redemption 2 is one of the best-selling games of all time, but the original still holds up, especially when you factor in the Undead Nightmare DLC. If you’ve only played the sequel, now is a great time to dive back into its predecessor.

Systems

Released

October 26, 2018

ESRB

M for Mature: Blood and Gore, Intense Violence, Nudity, Sexual Content, Strong Language, Use of Drugs and Alcohol

Engine

RAGE

Multiplayer

Online Multiplayer

Cross-Platform Play

N/A

Cross Save

N/A