How does helping or ignoring Strauss’s debt collections affect the story?

In Red Dead Redemption 2, helping or ignoring Strauss’s debt collections significantly impacts Arthur Morgan’s character development and the overall story. Strauss, the camp’s moneylender, assigns Arthur to collect debts from various NPCs across the map. These missions are optional but play a crucial role in shaping Arthur’s morality and the game’s ending.\n\nWhen you choose to help Strauss, you engage in debt collection missions that often involve morally questionable actions. For example, in the mission ''Money Lending and Other Sins,'' Arthur must collect money from impoverished individuals like Thomas Downes, a sick farmer in Valentine. These missions force Arthur to confront the harsh realities of his actions, as they often lead to tragic outcomes. Completing these missions contributes to the camp’s funds but also weighs heavily on Arthur’s conscience, especially as the story progresses and his health declines.\n\nIgnoring Strauss’s missions, on the other hand, allows Arthur to avoid these morally compromising situations. While this choice may seem like the more ethical route, it also means missing out on significant story moments and character development. For instance, the encounter with Thomas Downes is pivotal, as it directly ties into Arthur’s later struggles with illness and redemption. Skipping these missions can make Arthur’s arc feel less impactful, as they are designed to highlight his internal conflict and growth.\n\nFrom a gameplay perspective, helping Strauss unlocks additional missions and rewards. Completing debt collections increases the camp’s ledger, providing funds for upgrades and supplies. It also progresses the story, as certain missions are tied to key plot points. For example, collecting from Thomas Downes is unavoidable if you want to advance the main storyline, as it triggers a chain of events that affect Arthur’s fate.\n\nFor players who want to experience the full narrative, it’s recommended to complete at least some of Strauss’s missions. However, if you prefer a more morally upright playthrough, you can limit your involvement or avoid the missions altogether. Keep in mind that ignoring Strauss entirely may lock you out of certain story elements and reduce the depth of Arthur’s character arc.\n\nPractical tips for handling Strauss’s missions include balancing your choices to reflect your desired playstyle. If you want to explore Arthur’s darker side, fully engage in the debt collections. For a more honorable approach, complete only the essential missions and focus on other activities like hunting, fishing, or helping strangers. Additionally, consider the long-term consequences of your actions, as they influence Arthur’s honor level and the game’s ending.\n\nIn summary, helping or ignoring Strauss’s debt collections in Red Dead Redemption 2 has a profound impact on the story and Arthur’s character. These missions are integral to the narrative, offering both moral dilemmas and gameplay rewards. By carefully considering your choices, you can shape Arthur’s journey and experience the full depth of the game’s storytelling.