What If Red Dead Redemption 3 Moves Beyond the Old West?

The timeline for Red Dead Redemption 3 (RDR3) offers the possibility of exploring a new era in American history, diverging from the traditional Western setting.

While the Old West was a central theme in RDR2, the early 1900s could present a fresh narrative direction.

The era between 1907 and 1914, just before World War I, offers a wealth of historical events, technological advancements, and societal shifts that could reshape the game’s world.

End of the Old West

The events of RDR2 occur during the final days of the Old West, with the frontier closing and industrialization taking hold.

By the end of the game, the wild landscape of the West begins to fade, replaced by growing cities and more federal oversight. This marks the decline of the frontier spirit, a theme central to the game’s narrative.

Exploring a New Era

Instead of sticking to the traditional Western genre, RDR3 could venture into the early 20th century, a time when the U.S. experienced major cultural and political changes.

The rise of organized crime, the Gilded Age’s end, and the Prohibition era could provide a fresh backdrop for new kinds of outlaws. Jack Marston, who appears in the original game, could find himself navigating this transformed world.

Gameplay and Map Changes

Shifting to the 1900s would also change the gameplay experience. Players could encounter industrialized environments, organized crime syndicates, and the Alaskan frontier as the new frontier. This shift would offer a unique contrast to the rural, cowboy-driven world of previous games.

Would Players Accept a Non-Western RDR3?

While a non-traditional Western might surprise fans, it could provide a refreshing take on the series. The historical context of the early 1900s offers complex themes, including violence, social upheaval, and changing landscapes, which could be explored in a way that feels distinct from previous titles.

However, it’s likely that Rockstar Games will keep elements of the Western genre to retain the series’ identity.