In Part 1 of our series, we explored the complexities and nuances of the game’s rules regarding being "Wanted Dead or Alive." We discussed how, when it comes to achieving a wanted status in Red Dead Online, the game can be both forgiving and unforgiving at the same time. This time around, we’re going to delve deeper into the intricacies of this system and examine some of the most egregious examples of how it can sometimes feel like the law is indeed an ass.
Wanted Status: A Double-Edged Sword
As we here mentioned earlier, being wanted in Red Dead Online can be both a blessing and a curse. On one hand, having a high enough wanted level grants access to exclusive content, including unique clothing items and even special horseback riding stunts. This has led some players to intentionally seek out and provoke the authorities in order to increase their wanted status.
On the other hand, however, being on the run can be incredibly frustrating. Not only do you have to constantly keep an eye out for law enforcement patrols, but you also risk being caught and put behind bars – a fate worse than death in the world of Red Dead Online.
It’s at this point that we need to examine why the system is designed this way. According to Rockstar Games, the developers of Red Dead Online, the idea behind the wanted system was to create a sense of tension and urgency around player actions. They wanted players to feel like they were constantly walking on eggshells, never knowing when the law would swoop in and catch them off guard.
While this sounds admirable in theory, it often feels like the system is more punitive than progressive. Players who are already struggling with the game’s mechanics or story may find themselves stuck in an endless cycle of trying to evade the authorities, only to be caught and penalized for their efforts.
The ‘Glitch’ That Wasn’t
One of the most contentious issues surrounding the wanted system is the idea that some players can "glitch" their way out of trouble. By exploiting certain bugs or glitches in the game’s code, these players can essentially reset their wanted status and avoid punishment.
At first glance, this might seem like a blatant exploit – after all, why should one player be able to cheat the system while others are left to suffer the consequences? However, upon closer inspection, it becomes clear that Rockstar Games themselves have been aware of these issues for some time now.
In fact, several players have reported finding workarounds that allow them to reset their wanted status without breaking any official rules. While this may not be what Rockstar intended, it’s also not necessarily a bad thing – after all, if the system is broken, shouldn’t we expect the developers to fix it?
The problem lies in how these exploits are handled by Rockstar themselves. Some players have reported being banned from online play for trying to use these workarounds, while others have simply been given a slap on the wrist.
The Gray Area of ‘Wanted’ Status
One area where the wanted system becomes increasingly gray is in regards to player-versus-player combat. When two players engage in gunplay or other forms of violence, both parties are immediately marked as "wanted" by the game.
While this might seem like a good way to prevent gang warfare and promote peaceful resolution, it actually creates a number of problems. For one thing, it means that innocent bystanders can be caught up in the crossfire – literally.
More importantly, however, is the fact that players are often forced to choose between standing their ground or fleeing from danger. While some might argue this adds a level of realism to the game, others will claim it’s nothing more than a cheap trick designed to artificially prolong gameplay sessions.
Conclusion: A Needed Rebalance?
As we conclude our series on the wanted system in Red Dead Online, it becomes clear that there are both pros and cons to its design. While it’s undoubtedly exciting to be on the run from the law, it can also feel like a chore – especially for players who are already struggling with the game’s other challenges.
If Rockstar Games wants to continue pushing the boundaries of online gaming, they need to rebalance the system in favor of fairness and equality. This might involve reworking the rewards and penalties associated with wanted status or finding new ways to create tension and urgency without feeling like a cheap trick.
Ultimately, the law may be an ass – but it’s also the players who make up this community. By working together and providing feedback to the developers, we can help shape the future of Red Dead Online into something truly special.
As we continue to explore the world of New Hanover and beyond, let’s keep in mind that the wanted system is just one aspect of a much larger tapestry – and that by working together, we can create a game that’s truly greater than the sum of its parts.
Comentários desativados.