How Red Dead Redemption 2 helped me get through the first semester

3 mins read

Starting university can be a difficult time, especially moving into halls. Whilst it’s important to make friends and get accustomed to your new surroundings, Sometimes something familiar can help you get used to the change.

When I moved to Stirling in 2022 I didn’t bring much with me other than the essentials, and my Xbox. The only game I brought was Red Dead Redemption 2. Everybody knows about Rockstar’s once in a generation masterpiece. It’s a game that has come to define the evolving perception of video games as a medium, but it was also my only comfort for my first month at uni.

At the start of the first semester I was 17, that meant I couldn’t participate in many of the Fresher’s activities or go to the beloved Fubar Wednesday’s. I felt isolated, even among my flat mates. Red Dead Redemption 2 helped me to feel a sense of freedom when I had very little.

I got along with my flat mates and I went to my classes, but the only time I felt truly comfortable was when I could relax and explore the rolling fields of New Hanover as Arthur Morgan.

There’s fear and excitement around every corner of the sprawling open world that kept me hooked when I didn’t feel like I belonged. I spent a large part of my time alone in my room during the first semester, I don’t recommend doing so but I wasn’t the most social person at that time and Red Dead allowed me to feel social within the confines of my four walls.

I had played and completed the story only a few years prior, but the emotional elements of the conclusion only hit me when I felt like I was truly alone. Without spoiling the games tragic ending, it left me feeling empty. Not a great feeling to have when you feel alone but it inspired me to break my habit.

It was only at my lowest point I felt that I had to change. I started to visit my friends more, interact with my flat mates and generally take care of myself. I don’t think I could have overcome my isolation without Red Dead Redemption

So if you’re feeling alone and like you haven’t found your place yet, there’s no shame in revisiting something familiar, it could be the thing that gets you settled.

Featured image credit: Rockstar games

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Fourth year Film and Journalism student
Deputy editor

Contact - deputyeditor@brignews.com

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