Red Dead Redemption 3 already has a strong influence for its protagonist in the form of Dutch Van Der Linde. That's not to say that Dutch is the only choice that the developers have for a protagonist. After all, information on the next Red Dead Redemption is still largely nonexistent at this point. However, there are a few undeniable traits that Dutch brings to the table that are worth taking a look at ahead of the next game in the series. It may be an advantage for Red Dead Redemption 3's protagonist to embody some of these traits.

As the leader of Red Dead Redemption's Van Der Linde gang, Dutch is one of the most important characters in the series to date. It was under him that the gang formed and operated, and he unfortunately also led it to its destruction by the end of Red Dead Redemption 2. Dutch had an undeniable charisma, which explains how he was able to garner so many allies. Despite that, he was unable to keep hold of what success he was able to manage, adding to the story's tragedy. Because of this, Dutch ended up as an engaging and emotional antagonist for both Arthur and John.

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Dutch Van Der Linde Can Be a Strong Influence on Red Dead Redemption 3's Lead

Dutch Isn't Out of the Question For RDR3

It wouldn't be a major shock if Rockstar made Dutch Red Dead Redemption 3's protagonist, because there are a good few stories to tell about his younger days. The game could take players through his early days as an outlaw with Hosea, or perhaps how the gang first formed after Arthur Morgan joined up with them. The time before the events of Red Dead Redemption 2 has plenty of space to fill with the adventures of Dutch Van Der Linde and company. However, Dutch and the Van Der Lindes have driven much of the series already, so Red Dead Redemption 3 might someone new.

Dutch Was a Complicated Character That Grabbed Players' Attention

Dutch has several notable qualities that could be replicated even if Red Dead Redemption 3 has a clean slate with its characters. Red Dead Redemption's Dutch had several character traits that work for a hero as well as a villain. In addition to his charisma, Dutch was extremely loyal to anyone he trusted, explaining the deep bonds of the game. At the same time, he was also an unpredictable man. While this was an asset in a gunfight, it also made his actual schemes a bit scattershot, especially near the gang's end. Either of these traits could fit a new protagonist like a glove.

RDR3's Protagonist Could Tackle Dutch's Ideals In a New Way

Most notable of Dutch's features may be his aggressive idealism. Dutch refuses to abandon his ambitions, even as Red Dead Redemption 2's tragic story made it impossible. That clash of idealism and circumstances would be interesting to watch from the perspective of a new protagonist, especially if the player has some sway in the ending. This would be especially true if the game takes place further in the timeline, when the times of cowboys and outlaws are coming to an end. Red Dead Redemption 3's protagonist can also cling to their dreams, and they may have a chance at a better ending than Dutch.

Red Dead Redemption 3 doesn't have to star Dutch, but he could still be an inspiration. There will be a high bar for Red Dead Redemption 3's storytelling to clear after the first two games, but Rockstar should have the tools to reach it. The protagonist will be a key factor in that story, and emulating Dutch a little bit could be helpful. Dutch Van Der Linde was far from a perfect man. However, a protagonist as engaging as Dutch would do wonders for Red Dead Redemption 3 as a whole.

Red Dead Redemption

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