Red Dead Redemption 3’s Most Controversial Protagonist Idea Could Divide Fans
While Red Dead Redemption 3 remains unconfirmed, Rockstar fans are already debating its potential storyline – and one provocative theory suggests playing as Micah Bell, the franchise’s most despised villain. This pitch, born from Reddit speculation, could either revolutionize Western narratives or alienate players still healing from RDR2’s emotional wounds.
The Micah Bell Proposition
A viral r/reddeadredemption thread asked: “If RDR3 ever comes out, what would you want it to be about?” Among 1,000+ replies, a polarizing idea emerged:
“If Rockstar hates us enough, they’ll make us play as young Micah before he met Dutch.”
Fans argued this prequel could explore:
- Micah’s descent into brutality pre-1899
- His morally bankrupt solo atrocities
- The twisted charisma that manipulated Dutch’s gang
Surprisingly, many supported the concept:
“A Micah DLC would be absolute peak – committing atrocities everywhere!”
“Show how Dutch reunited with him in 1907. It’s dark, but compelling.”
Why This Would Be Risky
Micah Bell is arguably gaming’s most hated antagonist – betraying Arthur Morgan and triggering the gang’s collapse. Making him a protagonist risks:
- Player revulsion: Forcing empathy for a character synonymous with treachery
- Narrative whiplash: Contrasting sharply with Arthur/John’s redemptive arcs
- Franchise legacy: Red Dead built goodwill through moral complexity, not villain glorification
Yet Rockstar’s storytelling prowess could transform this into a masterpiece exploring nature vs. nurture in the lawless West.
Also, Read
- Red Dead Redemption 2 – New “Lost Dutchman’s Treasure” Mod Adds Haunting Mystery to RDR2
- Rockstar Accidentally Leaks Red Dead Redemption 2 Remaster Plans
- Red Dead Redemption Cast Tease Backfires – Fans Feel Misled
The Bigger Picture
With GTA VI dominating Rockstar’s focus until its May 2026 launch, RDR3 remains speculative. If developed, Rockstar faces critical choices:
- Safe path: Follow Jack Marston or fan-favorites (Sadie Adler, Charles Smith)
- Bold path: Subvert expectations with an antihero origin story
- New direction: Introduce entirely original characters
As one fan noted: “I’d rather NOT play as Micah… but Rockstar might feel brave.”