What happens if Arthur doesn’t help Pearson in the final missions?

In Red Dead Redemption 2, Arthur Morgan’s choices significantly impact the game’s narrative and endings. One pivotal moment occurs in the final missions, where Arthur has the option to help Pearson, the camp’s cook, during a critical mission. If Arthur chooses not to help Pearson, the consequences are tied to the game’s honor system and Arthur’s overall character arc.\n\nWhen Pearson asks for assistance in the mission ''The Fine Art of Conversation,'' Arthur can either agree to help or decline. If Arthur refuses, Pearson will still complete the mission on his own, but Arthur’s honor level will decrease. This decision affects Arthur’s moral standing, which influences the game’s ending. Lower honor leads to a darker, more tragic conclusion for Arthur, while higher honor results in a more redemptive and peaceful ending.\n\nFrom a gameplay perspective, helping Pearson is a straightforward task. The mission involves traveling to a specific location, such as Rhodes or Saint Denis, to retrieve supplies or gather information. If Arthur chooses to assist, he will engage in combat or stealth mechanics, depending on the situation. For example, in one scenario, Arthur might need to infiltrate a guarded area to steal supplies, requiring careful planning and execution.\n\nIf Arthur declines to help Pearson, the mission will still progress, but Arthur will miss out on opportunities to increase his honor. Additionally, refusing to help camp members can strain relationships within the gang, leading to less support from them in future missions. This can make certain challenges more difficult, as allies may be less willing to assist Arthur in combat or provide resources.\n\nFor players aiming to achieve the high-honor ending, it’s crucial to prioritize helping camp members like Pearson. Completing these missions not only boosts Arthur’s honor but also strengthens the gang’s morale and resources. On the other hand, players seeking a low-honor playthrough can decline these requests to align with a more self-serving or ruthless Arthur.\n\nPractical tips for handling this mission include saving the game before making a decision. This allows players to explore both outcomes without permanently affecting their honor level. Additionally, players should consider their overall goals for Arthur’s character arc. If redemption is the aim, helping Pearson and other camp members is essential. For a darker narrative, refusing assistance can reinforce Arthur’s descent into moral ambiguity.\n\nIn summary, refusing to help Pearson in the final missions of Red Dead Redemption 2 has significant consequences for Arthur’s honor and the game’s ending. Players should weigh their choices carefully, considering the impact on Arthur’s relationships, resources, and ultimate fate. By understanding the game’s mechanics and narrative structure, players can craft a unique and meaningful experience tailored to their preferred playstyle.