Uncovering Cut Content from Red Dead Redemption 2: Hidden Stories of the Van der Linde Gang

Rockstar Games' Red Dead Redemption 2 is known for its rich storytelling and deep character development. However, not everything made it into the final game. According to a Rockstar developer, some fascinating backstories were cut, shedding new light on key members of the Van der Linde gang.

Abigail Roberts: From Outsider to Family

One intriguing piece of cut content reveals how Abigail Roberts joined the gang. According to the source, Uncle was the one who introduced Abigail to the Van der Linde gang. She worked as a prostitute and, over time, became romantically involved with John Marston. Though she had interactions with other gang members, her bond with John grew stronger, leading to a romantic relationship.

Their relationship took a dramatic turn when Abigail became pregnant. Instead of stepping up, John ran away in 1896, fearing that the baby might not be his and unwilling to take responsibility. This abandonment created lasting tension within the gang, particularly with Arthur Morgan.

The Arrival of Javier Escuella

Another interesting detail from the cut content is how Javier Escuella joined the gang. In 1895, Dutch Van der Linde met Javier under unusual circumstances—while stealing chickens. Despite the odd first encounter, Javier quickly proved his worth and became one of Dutch's most loyal enforcers. His loyalty would remain unshaken throughout the gang's turbulent years.

Arthur Morgan's Resentment Towards John Marston

When John returned to the gang in 1897, his reception was not entirely warm. Arthur Morgan, who already had a strong sense of duty and loyalty, did not trust John. He viewed John as selfish and cowardly for abandoning his responsibilities as a father. The situation became even more strained when Dutch immediately forgave John, a move that Arthur found unfair and biased.

This tension between Arthur and John would linger for years, shaping their interactions throughout the game's narrative. Their rocky relationship adds an emotional layer to the story, making their eventual reconciliation even more poignant.

Why This Cut Content Matters

While these storylines were cut from the final version of Red Dead Redemption 2, they offer a deeper understanding of the characters' motivations and relationships. Knowing about John's early mistakes, Abigail's difficult position, and Arthur's sense of justice gives fans a richer appreciation for the game's complex narrative.