All Categories

How do I unlock the "Explorer" achievement by visiting all points of interest on the map?

The ''Explorer'' achievement in Red Dead Redemption 2 requires you to visit all points of interest on the map. This is a challenging task due to the game''s vast open world, but with careful planning and persistence, it can be accomplished. The achievement is tied to discovering all unique locations, which are marked by a pop-up notification when you enter them for the first time. These locations include landmarks, settlements, and hidden areas scattered across the five regions of the game: New Hanover, Lemoyne, West Elizabeth, Ambarino, and New Austin.\n\nTo begin, you should ensure you have access to the entire map. Some areas, like New Austin, are locked until later in the story. Completing the main story missions will unlock all regions, making it easier to explore freely. Once the map is fully accessible, start by systematically exploring each region. Use the in-game map to mark areas you’ve already visited and cross-reference with online guides or maps that list all points of interest. This will help you track your progress and avoid missing any locations.\n\nOne of the most efficient ways to discover points of interest is by using Arthur’s journal. As you explore, Arthur will sketch and note down unique locations, which can serve as a helpful reference. Additionally, interacting with NPCs and completing side missions can sometimes lead you to hidden areas. For example, the ''Geology for Beginners'' side mission will take you to several unique rock formations that count as points of interest.\n\nSome locations are easy to miss because they are off the beaten path or require specific conditions to access. For instance, the ''Window Rock'' landmark in Ambarino is only visible during certain weather conditions. Similarly, the ''Tesla Coil'' in the northeastern part of the map is hidden in a remote area and requires careful navigation to reach. Be prepared to spend time exploring every corner of the map, including caves, mountain peaks, and isolated islands.\n\nA common challenge players face is locating all the gravesites, which are scattered across the map and count as points of interest. These graves are often tucked away in remote areas, such as the one near Hanging Dog Ranch or the graves of fallen gang members. Using a detailed online map or guide can help you pinpoint these locations. Additionally, some points of interest, like the ''Viking Tomb'' or the ''Strange Statues,'' require solving puzzles or interacting with the environment to fully discover them.\n\nTo make the process smoother, consider using a horse with high stamina and bonding level, as you’ll be traveling long distances. Stock up on provisions like food and tonics to maintain your health and stamina during extended exploration. Fast travel can also save time, but be cautious as it may cause you to miss nearby points of interest. Instead, ride through areas thoroughly to ensure you don’t overlook anything.\n\nFinally, patience is key. The ''Explorer'' achievement is a time-consuming task, but it’s also an opportunity to fully immerse yourself in the game’s rich world. Take breaks if needed, and enjoy the journey as much as the destination. By following these steps and using available resources, you’ll unlock the achievement and gain a deeper appreciation for the game’s intricate design.