Wanted: Dead or alive

What does Wanted Dead or Alive mean in Red Dead Redemption 2

Some areas of Red Dead Redemption 2’s huge map are hotter than others, and we’re not talking about the sun. Being an infamous criminal comes with its fair share of baggage, so here’s all you need to know about the “Wanted Dead or Alive” areas in Red Dead Redemption 2.

Wanted Dead or Alive Red Dead Redemption 2

You’ll most likely notice the ominously red “Wanted Dead or Alive” message around Javier Escuella’s second mission in Red Dead Redemption 2.

The game doesn’t really communicate to you what this means, but you’ll find it on some other areas by default, as well as because of your actions in and out of main missions.
Basically, in areas marked with “Wanted Dead or Alive” NPCs will be actively hostile to your presence since you’re so well known as a wrong’un. 

This is why at the start of the game it’s active around Blackwater – because of the robbery gone wrong – and will trigger in other places based on the outcome of some quests.

There are also reports that you can cause it to happen by committing a large amount of serious crimes in quick succession. Then when you return to the area, everyone will be hostile.

These areas are essentially locked out to you, unless you visit them during a quest. Military encampments and police strongholds are also off limits and behave in the same way – including places like Fort Wallace and the Penitentiary. 

Special locations like this are separate from the bounty system, so for instance, you can’t pay off your Blackwater bounty in Chapter 2.

For more on how crime and punishment works in Red Dead Redemption 2, or if you’re struggling with the law, take a look at our guide on how to get rid of your bounty. You can also check out our guide to see how bounties will affect the honour system.