What happens if I fail to complete the money-lending missions?

In Red Dead Redemption 2, the money-lending missions are a critical part of the story and directly impact the game''s progression and endings. These missions are assigned by Leopold Strauss, a member of the Van der Linde gang, and involve collecting debts from various NPCs across the map. Failing to complete these missions can have significant consequences for both the story and your character''s honor.\n\nIf you choose to ignore or fail to complete the money-lending missions, the game will still progress, but you will miss out on key story elements and character development. Specifically, the missions involving Thomas Downes, a farmer in Valentine, are pivotal. Thomas Downes is the man Arthur contracts tuberculosis from, which becomes a central plot point in the game. Without completing this mission, the narrative loses a crucial emotional and thematic layer, as Arthur''s illness shapes his actions and decisions in later chapters.\n\nFrom a gameplay perspective, skipping these missions means you won''t unlock certain interactions or dialogue options with other gang members. For example, completing the Downes mission allows Arthur to reflect on his actions and morality, which ties into the honor system. The honor system is a core mechanic in RDR2, influencing how NPCs react to you, the availability of certain missions, and even the game''s endings. Ignoring the money-lending missions can limit your ability to gain or lose honor, depending on how you handle the debtors.\n\nTo complete the money-lending missions, you must visit Strauss at the gang''s camp and accept the tasks. Each mission involves traveling to a specific location, such as Valentine or Rhodes, and interacting with the debtor. Some debtors will pay willingly, while others may require intimidation or force. For example, in the Downes mission, you must confront Thomas at his farm and demand payment. If you fail to collect the debt, the mission will remain incomplete, and Strauss will express disappointment, but the story will continue.\n\nFor players struggling with these missions, here are some practical tips: First, ensure you have enough supplies, such as health tonics and ammunition, as some debtors may resist violently. Second, use the Dead Eye mechanic to quickly subdue aggressive NPCs. Third, consider your honor level before using excessive force, as harming innocent people will lower your honor. Finally, if you want to experience the full story, prioritize completing these missions early in the game to unlock all narrative arcs.\n\nIn summary, failing to complete the money-lending missions won''t prevent you from finishing the game, but it will limit your understanding of Arthur''s character and the overall story. These missions are essential for experiencing the emotional depth and moral complexity of RDR2. By completing them, you gain access to richer storytelling, character interactions, and a more nuanced ending based on your honor level.