What are the consequences of helping or betraying the gang?

In Red Dead Redemption 2, the choices you make regarding the Van der Linde gang significantly impact the game''s ending. The primary decision revolves around whether you help or betray the gang, particularly in the final chapters. These choices are tied to Arthur Morgan''s honor system, which influences the narrative and the ending you receive.\n\nTo unlock the different endings, you must first progress through the main story until Chapter 6. This is where the critical decisions occur. Arthur''s honor level, which ranges from low to high, determines the tone and outcome of the ending. High honor leads to a more redemptive conclusion, while low honor results in a darker, more tragic ending. Your actions throughout the game, such as helping strangers, donating to camp, or committing crimes, shape this honor system.\n\nIn Chapter 6, you will face a pivotal choice during the mission ''Red Dead Redemption.'' Micah Bell, a key antagonist, will confront Arthur, and you must decide whether to return to camp to help John Marston escape or go back for the gang''s money. Choosing to help John aligns with high honor and leads to a more selfless ending. Conversely, going back for the money reflects low honor and a more selfish path. This decision is irreversible, so choose carefully based on your desired outcome.\n\nIf you choose to help John, Arthur will assist him in escaping from the Pinkertons and the gang''s collapsing situation. This path emphasizes Arthur''s redemption and his desire to do right by his friends. The final moments of the game will reflect this choice, with Arthur ensuring John''s safety at great personal cost. This ending is emotionally impactful and aligns with the themes of loyalty and sacrifice.\n\nOn the other hand, if you choose to go back for the money, Arthur prioritizes personal gain over the gang''s well-being. This decision leads to a more confrontational and bitter ending, where Arthur''s actions are driven by greed or desperation. The final scenes will reflect this darker tone, with Arthur facing the consequences of his choices in a less sympathetic light.\n\nTo maximize your chances of achieving the high-honor ending, focus on positive actions throughout the game. Help strangers in need, donate to the camp fund, and avoid unnecessary violence. For example, in Saint Denis, you can assist a nun by giving her money, which boosts your honor. Similarly, avoid robbing innocent civilians or killing lawmen unless absolutely necessary. These small actions accumulate and influence the final outcome.\n\nFor players aiming for the low-honor ending, engage in more morally questionable activities. Rob trains, stagecoaches, and townsfolk, and commit crimes without regard for the consequences. For instance, in Valentine, you can antagonize townspeople or rob the general store to lower your honor. These actions will steer Arthur toward a more self-serving path.\n\nUltimately, the ending you receive is a culmination of your choices throughout the game. Pay attention to the honor meter in the pause menu, and adjust your actions accordingly. Whether you seek redemption or embrace a darker path, the story of Arthur Morgan is deeply personal and shaped by your decisions.\n\nPractical Tip: Save your game before starting Chapter 6 to experiment with both endings. This allows you to experience the full range of narrative outcomes without replaying the entire game. Additionally, focus on side missions and stranger encounters to further develop Arthur''s character and honor level.