The expansive world of Red Dead Redemption 2 (RDR2) is brimming with secrets waiting to be discovered. One such intriguing mystery is the scattered collection of rock carvings found throughout the map. 

These cryptic symbols have piqued the curiosity of many players, prompting questions about their meaning and purpose.

 This guide delves into everything you need to know about RDR2’s rock carvings, including their locations, significance, and the rewards for finding them all.

A Stranger’s Enigmatic Request

The key to unlocking the mystery of the rock carvings lies in a chance encounter with a peculiar character – Francis Sinclair. You’ll find him northwest of Strawberry, residing in a modest cabin. 

Approaching him triggers a stranger mission titled “Geology for Beginners.” During this mission, Sinclair reveals his fascination with these ancient carvings and tasks you with finding all ten scattered across the map.

A Treasure Hunt Across Five States

The ten rock carvings are spread throughout the five states featured in RDR2: New Hanover, Ambarino, Lemoyne, West Elizabeth, and New Austin. Here’s a detailed breakdown of their locations:

Mount Hagen: Scale the peak of Mount Hagen in Ambarino. The carving is located near the summit.

Whinyard Strait: Travel to Whinyard Strait in New Hanover. Look for the carving on a small hill near the Dakota River.

Flatneck Station: Head northwest of Flatneck Station in New Hanover. The carving is situated halfway between the station and the Dakota River.

Window Rock: The carving is actually located across the Dakota River from the landmark Window Rock in New Hanover.

Owanjila Lake: Explore the southern shore of Owanjila Lake in Ambarino. You’ll find the carving etched on a rock wall.

Mount Shann: Trek to the peak of Mount Shann in Ambarino. The carving is located along the path leading to the summit.

Bacchus Station: Seek out a small hill near Bacchus Station and Fort Wallace in New Hanover. The carving is hidden beneath a rising path on the left side.

South of Moonstone Pond: Venture south of Moonstone Pond in New Hanover. The carving is etched on a nearby rock face.

Deer Cottage: Travel to Deer Cottage in Big Valley, West Elizabeth. The carving can be found on the rocks near the cottage. 1 10. Elysian Pool: Head to the eastern side of Elysian Pool in New Austin. Look for the carving high up on a rock wall – using Eagle Eye can be helpful here.

Finding all ten rock carvings can be a rewarding adventure, taking you across the stunning landscapes of RDR2.  Consult online maps or utilize the in-game map with markers to simplify your search.

Decoding the Symbols: Theories and Interpretations

The exact meaning of the rock carvings remains shrouded in mystery. However, several theories have emerged from the RDR2 community:

Native American Origins:  The carvings could be a form of communication or storytelling used by the indigenous people who once inhabited the land.

Treasure Map Clues:  Some speculate that the carvings might be interconnected, forming a map leading to hidden treasure within the game world. While there’s no definitive evidence to support this theory, it adds an exciting layer of speculation to the search.

Mythological Significance:  The imagery in the carvings might hold symbolic meaning related to Native American mythology or folklore.

Ultimately, the true meaning behind the rock carvings is left open to interpretation. This ambiguity fuels the intrigue and allows players to craft their own narratives around these mysterious symbols.

The Rewards of a Complete Collection

Once you’ve meticulously tracked down all ten rock carvings, return to Francis Sinclair at his cabin. He’ll be impressed by your accomplishment and reward you with an  “Old Brass Compass.” This compass isn’t a navigational tool but rather a valuable collector’s item within the game world.

While the reward itself might seem underwhelming, the true value lies in the journey of discovery. Completing this stranger mission adds a layer of accomplishment and enriches your understanding of the rich lore and history woven into the fabric of Red Dead Redemption 2.

Beyond the Carvings: Unveiling the Hidden Depths of RDR2

The rock carvings are just one example of the many mysteries and secrets scattered throughout Red Dead Redemption 2. From cryptic messages etched into tombstones to hidden caves harboring ancient artifacts, the game rewards exploration and close observation.

So, saddle up, partner!  Keep your eyes peeled for hidden details as you explore the vast and captivating world of Red Dead Redemption 2. You never know what fascinating secrets you might uncover next.

FAQs

The enigmatic rock carvings scattered throughout Red Dead Redemption 2 (RDR2) have sparked curiosity among players. Here’s a breakdown to help you decipher these ancient markings:

What are the rock carvings in RDR2?

These are mysterious petroglyphs scattered across the game world. Each carving depicts a unique symbol or scene, seemingly holding some hidden meaning.

How do I find them?

The carvings aren’t marked on your map. To find them, you need to complete the “Geology for Beginners” stranger mission. Francis Sinclair, a geologist you meet northwest of Strawberry, will task you with locating all ten carvings.

Is there a reward for finding them all?

Once you’ve found all ten carvings and read a specific letter from Sinclair, you can revisit him for a special reward: the Old Brass Compass. This compass is rumored to have unique properties, though its exact function remains shrouded in mystery.

Where can I find a guide to all the rock carving locations?

Several resources offer detailed guides, including:

IGN Wiki: https://www.ign.com/videos/red-dead-redemption-2-all-10-rock-carvings-locations-guide

Shacknews: https://www.shacknews.com/article/108392/rock-carving-locations-red-dead-redemption-2

Rock Paper Shotgun (refer to online guides section): https://www.ign.com/wikis/red-dead-redemption-2/Rock_Carving_Coordinates_10

What do the rock carvings mean?

The exact meaning of the carvings is a subject of much debate among RDR2 players. Some popular theories include:

Alien Connections: Do the carvings depict extraterrestrial beings or technology?

Native American Lore: Could they represent symbols or stories from the area’s indigenous tribes?

Treasure Map Clues: Perhaps they hold cryptic hints leading to hidden treasure?

Are there any hints to their meaning within the game?

Unfortunately, there are no clear explanations within the game itself. However, some carvings seem to depict events from the story, suggesting a possible narrative connection.

What’s the fun of finding the rock carvings?

The hunt for the carvings is a thrilling treasure hunt experience. It encourages exploration of the beautiful RDR2 world and lets you delve into the game’s lore and mysteries.

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