The real-life city that inspired Saint Denis in Red Dead Redemption 2

Five years after its release, Red Dead Redemption 2 is still a game that never ceases to amaze. One of the latest gems from Rockstar Games, it once again demonstrates the studio’s mastery of the open world, as well as its great narrative capacity. Within this world, its cities and representations of this United States, still untamed in part of its territory, are like a living one. But if there is one place that continues to attract attention the first time you visit, as for any player now, it is the city of Saint Denis.

Saint Denis and the city that inspired it in Red Dead Redemption 2

In the vast open world of Red Dead Redemption 2, Saint Denis stands out as one of the most vibrant and bustling cities. Rich in culture and teeming with life, this fictional city is largely inspired by the real city of New Orleans, Louisiana.

Saint Denis mirrors New Orleans in many ways, capturing the essence of its historical and architectural charm. Much like New Orleans, the city sits on a river with a bustling port that serves as a hub for trade and commerce. Rockstar Games has meticulously recreated the French-inspired architecture, narrow cobblestone streets, and ornate balconies that are synonymous with New Orleans’ French Quarter.

Some of these details can be found in various locations throughout the city. From the detail of the names written on the sidewalks as in real life, to the similarity of the statue of JD McKnight near the train station to the statue of Henry Clay found in Lafayette Square in real New Orleans. And well, what to say about the cemetery in the north of the city, respecting how the above-ground graves resemble those in the real New Orleans, this due to the water table of the swampy environment of the place.

New Orleans in the late 19th century, when Red Dead Redemption 2 took place, was a melting pot of cultures and ethnicities. It was known for its Creole heritage, a blend of French, Spanish, African and Native American influences. This cultural tapestry is vividly reflected in Saint Denis, where players can experience a variety of activities and interactions that highlight the city’s rich cultural heritage. From street performers and artists to lively parades and festivals, the city’s dynamic energy is palpable. And who can forget the mystery of the vampire?

Other places that inspired the world of Red Dead Redemption 2

On the other hand, it goes without saying that Saint Denis is not the only place on the Red Dead Redemption 2 map that was inspired by somewhere in the United States. Within these locations, we can also find the real places that inspired them: