Chapter 1 of Red Dead Redemption 2, titled Colter, serves as a dramatic and tutorial-heavy prologue set in the harsh, snowy mountains of Ambarino. Following a failed robbery in Blackwater, the Van der Linde gang is forced to flee into a relentless blizzard to survive. This opening chapter sets up the tragic narrative of Arthur Morgan while teaching players the essential survival and combat mechanics required for the rest of the game.
Surviving the Blizzard at Colter
The story opens as Dutch van der Linde leads his desperate followers into an abandoned mining town seeking shelter from the severe cold. During these initial moments, players learn fundamental controls such as movement, managing stamina, and keeping warm. The oppressive atmospheric conditions emphasize the gang's vulnerability and establish a tense tone early in the narrative.
In the opening mission, Outlaws from the West, Arthur and Dutch search for supplies and encounter a hostile O'Driscoll camp. This initial clash introduces gunplay mechanics, including taking cover, aiming, and looting fallen enemies. Clearing the homestead provides the gang with much-needed provisions and reveals crucial details regarding rival factions.
Rescuing John Marston and Essential Combat Lessons
One of the earliest critical objectives involves tracking down John Marston, who went missing during a reconnaissance scout. In Enter, Pursued by a Memory, Arthur and Javier Escuella venture out into the treacherous snowy cliffs to locate their wounded comrade. This mission teaches players how to track using vision cues and introduces wolf combat, requiring quick reactions under pressure.
As the chapter progresses, players are introduced to advanced weapon systems and tactical combat features. The mission Old Friends tasks Arthur with attacking a major O'Driscoll hideout in the mountains. Here, the Dead Eye targeting system is introduced, allowing players to slow down time and execute precise shots against multiple foes.
Planning the Train Robbery and Leaving the Snow
The climax of Chapter 1 centers around a high-stakes heist planned by Dutch to finance their journey south. In Who the Hell is Leviticus Cornwall?, the gang ambushes a heavily guarded private train belonging to a wealthy industrialist. Players must execute a daring board-and-clear strategy while navigating gunfights across moving train cars.
Successfully raiding Cornwall's train rewards the gang with valuable bonds and supplies, providing the momentum needed to escape the frozen peaks. Following the heist, Eastward Bound marks the transition out of the mountains as the gang moves toward the lush region of New Hanover. Arriving at Horseshoe Overlook concludes Chapter 1, opening up the massive world for free exploration.
