Summary
- The Red Dead Redemption series offers an immersive experience with gripping narratives and intriguing characters, including some exceptionally intelligent and cunning individuals.
- Characters like Hosea Matthews, Marko Dragic, and Andrew Milton demonstrate remarkable strategic prowess and contribute significantly to the compelling narratives in the Red Dead universe.
- Each character mentioned, from Charles Smith to Dutch Van Der Linde, possesses unique qualities and intellect that shape their roles within the Van der Linde gang and the unfolding story.
Few games can boast of a better immersive experience than the Red Dead Redemption series. Players are not only treated to gripping narratives and breathtaking landscapes but also encounter and interact with a myriad of intriguing characters. Some stand out with exceptional intelligence and cunning minds among the richly crafted cast of Westerners.
These characters display remarkable intelligence and strategic prowess, showcasing their expertise as master manipulators, brilliant strategists, or sharp-witted outlaws as they contribute significantly to the compelling narratives that unfold in the Red Dead universe. Without further ado, here are some of the most intelligent characters in the Red Dead Redemption games.
10 Hosea Matthews
As one of the oldest Van der Linde gang members, Hosea is also one of the most intelligent and composed. Unlike most of the gang members who shoot first and ask questions later, he prefers more subtle, well-thought-out solutions to his problems. Hosea’s strategic thinking has been very instrumental to most of the gang’s survival and success due to his role as the brain to the operation and Dutch’s partner.
When Dutch’s ambitions start straying from the initial vision of the gang, Hosea is always there to safeguard its survival while upholding its original principles.
9 Marko Dragic
Marko is arguably the brightest mind in Red Dead Redemption 2. Despite being a minor character, his machinations, which are well ahead of their time, will leave an indelible mark on the players through the unforgettable Stranger Mission.
Designing and operating a remote-controlled submarine in the 1800s would seem bogus to most, but not Marko. However, it pales in comparison to his most significant creation: a sentient robot who recognizes him as his father. Players encounter Marko on three different occasions, with each showcasing his brilliance.
8 Andrew Milton
Andrew is a Pinkerton detective that has garnered a reputation for his skill and accomplishments. His proficiency is unmistakable, leaving no refuge for the Van Der Linde gang, as he relentlessly tracks them down no matter what.
As the age of the outlaws and gunslingers was coming to an end, Andrew embraced the new era that came along with its societal laws and the legal structures which ensured a safer and better community. While his ideals and actions can be extreme, his heart is in the right place.
7 Charles Smith
The Van der Linde gang members were not exactly known for their intellectual capacity. However, among them, Charles undoubtedly stood out as one of the most astute. He is also one of the most competent and skilled in combat, tracking, and hunting. Notably eloquent, honest, and a man of honor, he easily earns the admiration of players with his time onscreen.
His ability to remain level-headed allows him to see beyond the chaos, making him an invaluable voice of reason within the tumultuous gang dynamics.
6 Dutch Van Der Linde
The man who the Van der Linde gang is named after, Dutch, is perpetually driven by his plans and unyielding commitment to outlaw life. Throughout his journey, Dutch has masterfully navigated diverse allegiances and devised an array of strategies, with each differing in audacity. His intellect is evident in his intricate plans and management of the gang’s activities.
His refined sides are apparent through his engagement with literature and his behavioral patterns. Regrettably, Dutch’s downfall lies in his insatiable appetite for more and his constant pursuit of grandeur, which ultimately corroded his leadership.
5 Micah Bell
Micah Bell’s story is that of a scheming and intelligent underdog who slowly plots his way to the top. His intellect cements his status as a formidable adversary and imbues his character with depth, complexity, and intrigue. He has no morals when it comes to accomplishing his goals, embodying traits of deceit, enigmatic unpredictability, deceit, and self-centredness in a strategic manner.
He manipulated his way to the position of Dutch’s right-hand man, galloping over several members in line for the coveted role. He even functioned as an informant for the Pinkerton.
4 Leopold Strauss
First and foremost, Leopold Strauss is an excellent businessman, and the intellect required to excel as one is no joke. Although his character is not extensively explored, it is evident that he is the gang's bookkeeper and loan shark.
His adeptness at managing the financial aspects of the gang was crucial for their survival, rendering him an indispensable figure in the Van der Linde gang, regardless of the moral implications surrounding his actions. It is safe to say they owe him most of their success and sustenance.
3 Sadie Adler
After the death of her husband, Sadie’s secluded life came to an end. She ventured out and found solace within the embrace of the Van der Linde gang, seemingly integrating herself into their fold with her skills as an excellent marksman. Over time, her prowess would extend to becoming one of the most skilled bounty hunters in the western frontier.
Sadie’s intelligence is mostly due to experience, shining through a unique blend of determination and the lessons she and her comrades have learned along the way.
2 Josiah Trelawny
Josiah Trelawny, a master of deceit and manipulation, navigates situations with unparalleled finesse. His intellect rarely shows, but when it does, it takes center stage. Josiah’s choice of a cattleman revolver remains secondary to his preference for a dramatic flair and verbal sparring, eschewing bullets for theatrics.
His intellect shines brightest when he weaves his deceptions with a captivating charm. Even his gang remains oblivious to his hidden life in Saint-Denis, complete with a family and several other secrets. His intelligence is only matched by his capacity for orchestrating charades.
1 Arthur Morgan
Arthur is a pretty hot-headed man who quickly resorts to violence over contemplation. Just like John, he is often labeled a fool by those around them, despite being the smarter of the bunch. He is not exactly dumb; there are many more characters with more remarkable intellect than him.
Despite his loyalty to Dutch outlasting its due course, he is astute enough to challenge Dutch’s irrational ideas and steer against his delusions when he finally catches on. Furthermore, he sometimes dabbles in art and literature; his writing is rich and evocative, complemented by detailed drawings.