How I found peace in Red Dead Redemption

You might think Red Dead Redemption 2 is all gun slinging, gang rivalries and bar room brawls, but it’s not just for adrenaline junkies. It might not be as rejuvenating as a spa day or a yoga retreat, but these days you need to take what you can get.

Our main character Arthur Morgan is a simple man, and he knows how to enjoy the simple things in life. After a long day of fear and doom-scrolling, here’s how you can relax while exploring the world of the old Wild West..

Enjoy the Great Outdoors

Get your binoculars out and go on safari. The diverse habitats and climates of Red Dead are home to around 200 species of animals, all of which behave and respond to their environment in a unique way.

Go hunting, fishing and shooting or just observe beautiful beasts in their natural habitat. Your Zoological Compendium has details of all the animals you can encounter in the game – including deer, bison, wolves, bears and eagles.

Have a soothing bath

Wash the mud off and relax in the bath. Each hotel offers a slightly different experience – you can ask at the bar to see the options. Hotels and bars also offer a range of hearty meals such as fried catfish or lobster bisque, depending on how classy they are. You can also try your luck at blackjack or poker – just try not to get in any fights..

Read your journal and reminisce

A surprisingly sensitive man, Arthur goes nowhere without his trusty journal. Have a look through at the end of the day – you’ll see he’s jotted down some anecdotes on your adventures alongside some charming little doodles.

Watch the sunset

Find a good spot to watch the sun go down, or come up! You’ll experience every kind of weather and changing seasons. You’ll also quickly notice everyone is pretty concerned with how warm your clothes are, so make sure to wrap up warm in winter.

Crack open a cold one with the lads

There’s always someone hanging out round the campfire, telling tales of past adventures, singing folk songs or playing the banjo. Sit down with a beer or something stronger if it’s been one of those days..