Representation Patterns

    One of my favorite video games is Red Dead Redemption 2, which follows the story of a gang of outlaws in the Wild West. As the era of cowboys is being ushered out for industrial expansion, the gang sets out to escape the life of crime. The game received critical acclaim, being praised for its moving narrative and beautiful visuals.

    The protagonist of the story is Arthur Morgan, an outlaw sitting at the right hand of the gang's leader: Dutch Van der Linde. Arthur is reflective of the South's culture, characteristics, and values at the time. Donning a heavy southern accent and dressed with a cowboy hat and boots, Morgan's external appearance constructs the typical southerner. The game's protagonist was born and raised into a life of crime, rejecting the order and restriction that comes with the rise of industrialism. This is reflective of typical conservative values in the South, prioritizing individual freedom. 

    Not all of Red Dead Redemption 2's characters fit the southern stereotype, however; Dutch Van der Linde is a prime example of this. The gang's leader is bent on securing a more stable life through any means necessary, hoping to adapt both order and structure. While both characters have similar upbringings and physical characteristics, the game differentiates them through their values and ideologies.

    The game also portrays the racial discrimination present in the time period, as P.O.C. receive cruel and unfair treatment throughout the story. As you travel through the different towns and cities of Red Dead Redemption 2, you can overhear the conversations and actions of the citizens. Both physical and verbal abuse can be seen towards people of color, representing the negative attitude towards minority groups. This is contrasted by Dutch's gang, which features outlaws of all sorts of backgrounds. Van der Linde cares for one's capabilities over their race, continuing to depict more progressive values.

   The characters of Red Dead Redemption 2 are masterfully written, effectively representing different groups, races, and cultures. I strongly recommend this game, even to those who aren't avid video game players.