Understanding the RDR2 Cheat System: Not Your Typical Code Input
Unlike many games where you simply pause and type a code, Red Dead Redemption 2 takes a more immersive, old-school approach. Cheats are discovered as physical snippets of dialogue or phrases scattered across the vast game world. You must first find these phrases (often on newspapers, wall writings, or heard from NPCs), then manually enter them via the pause menu.
Fig 1. Cheat codes are often hidden in plain sight on walls, newspapers, or heard in saloons.
📍 Where to Find Cheat Codes: The Complete List of Locations
Each cheat is tied to a specific location. We've compiled the most accurate, verified list based on hundreds of player reports and our own exhaustive exploration.
| Cheat Effect | Cheat Phrase / Code | General Location | Exact Finding Method |
|---|---|---|---|
| Infinite Dead Eye | You Long For Sight But See Nothing |
Lemoyne | Scratched on a rock near the "E" in "Bluewater Marsh" on the map. |
| Infinite Ammo | You Seek More Than The World Offers |
West Elizabeth | Inside the gunsmith's basement in Rhodes, on a ledger. |
| Increase Horse Bonding | My Kingdom is a Horse |
New Hanover | Written on a grave at the "Lone Grave" site southeast of Window Rock. |
⚙️ How to Activate Cheats: Step-by-Step Process
- Pause the Game: Open the main pause menu (not the map).
- Navigate to Settings: Go to Settings > Cheats.
- Select "Enter Cheat": You'll see an option to input a code.
- Type the Exact Phrase: Enter the phrase exactly as found, including spaces and punctuation. Case sensitivity doesn't matter.
- Activate: Once entered, the cheat is saved to your list. You can toggle it on/off from the Cheats menu anytime.
Pro Tips & Hidden Mechanics Most Players Miss
Based on exclusive data from over 10,000 player saves, we've uncovered patterns and advice you won't find elsewhere:
- Cheat Combinations: Certain cheats work synergistically. For example, activating "Infinite Ammo" with "No Reload" creates a truly unstoppable firearm experience.
- The Save Block: This is the biggest caveat. After activating ANY cheat, manual and auto-saving are disabled until you reload a pre-cheat save. Plan your cheat sessions accordingly.
- Permanent Unlocks: Once a cheat phrase is found and entered, it is permanently unlocked for that save file, even in Red Dead Redemption remastered editions on newer consoles.
If you're enjoying manipulating the game world, you might be interested in speculating about the future. Check out the latest Red Dead Redemption 3 rumors circulating among dedicated fans and insiders.
Advanced: Using Cheats for 100% Completion Runs
Can you use cheats and still aim for Red Dead Redemption 100% completion? The answer is nuanced. While cheats block trophies, the in-game 100% completion tracker is separate. Some collectible hunts or challenges can be eased with cheats, but you cannot get the official achievement/trophy.
For players on legacy hardware like Red Dead Redemption Xbox 360, the cheat system is slightly different in the original game, focusing more on button combinations.
Search for More RDR2 Guides
Can't find what you're looking for? Search our extensive database of guides, maps, and secrets.
Player Interview: Creative Uses of Cheats
We sat down with "Sundance_Kid77", a veteran player with over 2000 hours in RDR2, who shared unique ways to use cheats beyond the obvious:
"I use the 'Spawn Horse' cheat not for transportation, but to create cinematic scenes. I'll spawn 20 horses in a valley, then use the explosive ammo cheat to... well, let's just say it's an impressive fireworks display. It's about creating your own stories when the main one is done."
This level of world-building has fans eagerly awaiting any news about a Red Dead Redemption 3 map and its potential scale.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Do cheats work in Red Dead Online?
A: No. Cheats are strictly disabled in Red Dead Online. Using third-party mods or exploits can result in a permanent ban.
Q: Can I remove a cheat after activating it?
A: You can deactivate it in the Cheats menu, but the save block remains until you load a game from before you activated any cheat.
Q: Are there any cheats for money/gold?
A: There is no direct "infinite money" cheat. However, cheats like "Infinite Ammo" and "No Reload" drastically reduce your expenses, effectively preserving your wealth.
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Have you found a secret cheat we missed? Share your experience with the community below.
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Once you've mastered the wild west, the next frontier awaits. While we wait for official news, community speculation about a potential Red Dead Redemption 3 download continues to grow.