What are the key choices that determine the ending?

In Red Dead Redemption 2, the ending you receive is determined by two key factors: Arthur Morgan''s honor level and a critical choice made during the final mission, ''Red Dead Redemption.'' These factors influence whether Arthur''s story concludes with a high honor or low honor ending, and whether he helps John Marston escape or prioritizes the money. Understanding these mechanics is essential for players who want to unlock all possible endings.\n\nFirst, Arthur''s honor level plays a significant role in shaping the ending. Honor is a game mechanic that tracks Arthur''s moral decisions throughout the story. High honor is earned by helping strangers, donating to the camp, and making selfless choices, while low honor is gained through robbery, murder, and selfish actions. To check your honor level, open the player menu and look at the honor bar, which ranges from maximum dishonor on the left to maximum honor on the right. Maintaining high honor is crucial for unlocking the more positive endings.\n\nThe second factor is a pivotal decision Arthur makes during the final mission. After the gang''s camp is attacked by Pinkertons, Arthur and Dutch confront Micah Bell on Mount Hagen. At this point, Arthur is given a choice: either return to the camp to help John Marston escape or go back to retrieve the gang''s hidden money. This decision, combined with Arthur''s honor level, determines which of the four possible endings you will experience.\n\nFor example, if Arthur has high honor and chooses to help John, he will have a peaceful and heroic ending. In this scenario, Arthur sacrifices himself to ensure John''s escape, and the final moments are emotionally impactful. Conversely, if Arthur has low honor and chooses the money, he will meet a grim and violent fate, reflecting his selfish actions throughout the game. These variations make replaying the game worthwhile to experience all outcomes.\n\nTo achieve high honor, focus on completing side missions that involve helping others, such as aiding strangers in need or donating to the camp fund. Avoid unnecessary violence and theft, as these actions lower your honor. For players aiming for low honor, engage in activities like robbing trains, killing innocent NPCs, and ignoring pleas for help. Keep in mind that honor can be adjusted at any point in the game, so you can change your approach if desired.\n\nPractical tips for unlocking all endings include saving your game before the final mission to experiment with different choices. This allows you to replay the ending without starting a new playthrough. Additionally, pay attention to dialogue and character interactions, as they often hint at the consequences of your actions. For example, Arthur''s journal entries reflect his moral struggles, providing insight into how your choices are shaping his story.\n\nIn summary, the key to unlocking all endings in Red Dead Redemption 2 lies in managing Arthur''s honor level and making the right choice during the final mission. By understanding these mechanics and experimenting with different playstyles, you can experience the full emotional depth of Arthur''s journey. Whether you aim for redemption or embrace a darker path, the game offers a rich narrative experience that rewards thoughtful decision-making.