RDR2 Canonical Scale: A Comprehensive Guide

Introduction

The Red Dead Redemption 2 (RDR2) canonical scale is a system used by the game's developers to determine the level of historical accuracy in the game's content. This scale ranges from "authentic" to "mythological," with each level representing a different degree of historical authenticity. Understanding this scale is essential for players who want to fully appreciate the game's historical accuracy and its relevance to real-world events.

Canonical Scale Levels

The RDR2 canonical scale consists of the following levels:

1. Authentic: Events and characters are accurately portrayed based on historical records.
2. Historicised: Events and characters are based on real-world figures, but with some minor changes.
3. Thematised: Events and characters are inspired by historical events and figures, but are heavily stylised and altered.
4. Mythological: Events and characters are invented for the game's narrative, but may be based on historical legends.

Examples of Historical Accuracy

Throughout RDR2, players can encounter numerous events and characters that are rooted in historical accuracy. Some notable examples include:

• The "Blackwater Massacre" is based on the real-life "Mountain Meadows Massacre" of 1857.
• The character of "Colm O'Driscoll" is based on the real-life Irish outlaw "Colum O'Gorman."
• The "Gunfight at the O.K. Corral" is recreated in the game with historical accuracy.

Departures from Historical Accuracy

While RDR2 strives for historical accuracy, it also makes some departures from reality to enhance the game's narrative and gameplay. Some notable examples of these departures include:

• The "Pinkertons" are depicted as ruthless law enforcement agents, while in reality they were primarily private investigators.
• The "Van der Linde gang" is a composite of several real-life outlaw gangs.
• The game's timeline is compressed, with events happening closer together than they did in real life.

The Importance of Historical Accuracy

The historical accuracy of RDR2 matters for several reasons:

• It provides players with a deeper understanding of the American West and its history.
• It helps players appreciate the struggles and triumphs of real-life historical figures.
• It encourages players to explore the complexities of morality and justice in a historical context.

Benefits of Understanding the Canonical Scale

Understanding the RDR2 canonical scale can benefit players in the following ways:

• It allows players to identify and appreciate historical references in the game.
• It helps players distinguish between fact and fiction in the game's narrative.
• It enhances the game's immersive experience by providing a sense of historical context.

Tips and Tricks for Using the Canonical Scale

Here are some tips and tricks for using the RDR2 canonical scale effectively:

• Read the game's historical notes and developer interviews to learn more about the game's historical accuracy.
• Visit historical landmarks in the game and compare them to real-life photographs.
• Research the real-life events and figures that inspired the game's content.

Conclusion

The RDR2 canonical scale is an essential tool for understanding the game's historical accuracy and its relevance to real-world events. By understanding this scale, players can fully appreciate the game's rich narrative and its depiction of the American West.