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Main storyline missions and tips

In Red Dead Redemption, you play as John Marston, a former outlaw forced to hunt down his old gang members to save his family. It’s an epic tale of redemption set in the dying days of the American frontier.

The main game has 57 main missions spread across 4 chapters: New Austin (25 missions), Nuevo Paraiso (16), West Elizabeth (7), and Beecher's Hope (9). They're essential for progressing through the game's story, and count toward 100% completion.

The main story usually takes about 20-25 hours to finish, depending on your playstyle and how many side quests you tackle.

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Main storyline missions:

  • ​Exodus in America

    Take your time to learn the controls and get familiar with the environment.

  • New Friends, Old Problems

    Follow Bonnie’s instructions closely; these early missions teach key mechanics.

  • Obstacles in Our Path

    Use cover during shootouts and practice aiming.

  • This is Armadillo, USA

    Explore the town to unlock shops and services.

  • Women and Cattle

    Ride behind the herd and use gentle movements to guide them.

  • Wild Horses, Tamed Passions

    Approach slowly, use your lasso, and balance with the left stick.

  • Political Realities in Armadillo

    Pay attention to dialogue for hints about upcoming challenges.

  • Justice in Pike’s Basin

    Use cover and long-range weapons to manage multiple enemies.

  • Spare the Rod, Spoil the Bandit

    Use Dead Eye for quick takedowns in close combat.

  • Hanging Bonnie MacFarlane

    Move quickly and use Dead Eye to ensure Bonnie’s safety.

  • A Tempest Looms

    Stock up on ammo and health items before starting.

  • The Burning

    Prioritize enemies with fire bottles and act fast.

  • The Assault on Fort Mercer

    Stay with your allies, use cover, and focus on enemies with high ground.

  • ​Civilization, at Any Price

    Use the new region to restock and explore before advancing.

  • The Demon Drink

    Be wary of ambushes and keep an eye on Irish’s unpredictable behavior.

  • Empty Promises

    Listen to the story dialogue for mission objectives.

  • The Gates of El Presidio

    Use stealth when possible and take out snipers first.

  • An Appointed Time

    Choose your cover carefully and keep an eye on allies’ positions.

  • Must a Savior Die?

    Your choices may affect the story’s tone but not the main outcome.

  • The Great Mexican Train Robbery

    Move between cars quickly and use cover to avoid enemy fire.

  • And You Will Know the Truth

    Stay alert for sudden changes in mission objectives.

  • The Mexican Wagon Train

    Ride ahead to clear obstacles and enemies for the convoy.

  • Civilization, at Any Price (Reyes)

    Use explosives for groups of enemies and protect key NPCs.

  • An Appointed Time (Reyes)

    Keep moving and use Dead Eye for crowd control.

  • ​Bear One Another’s Burdens

    Prepare for tougher enemies and longer travel distances.

  • Great Men Are Not Always Wise

    Escort missions require patience—keep your charge safe.

  • At Home with Dutch

    Use cover and listen for cues about Dutch’s location.

  • The Prodigal Son Returns (to Yale)

    Clear enemies ahead of the professor’s path.

  • And the Truth Will Set You Free

    Stay calm during the final confrontation and be ready for a chase.

  • ​The Outlaw’s Return

    Enjoy the slower pace and use this time to explore side activities.

  • A New Future Imagined

    Complete simple tasks and savor the story moments.

  • American Venom

    Use all the skills you’ve learned—cover, Dead Eye, and patience are key.

  • The Last Enemy That Shall be Destroyed

    Use all the skills you’ve learned—cover, Dead Eye, and patience are key.

  • Remember My Family

    Use all of your ammo.