In Red Dead Redemption 2, Arthur Morgan's weight does more than just change his look.

The game keeps tabs on what he eats, how much he sleeps, and how much he exerts himself.

This process decides if Arthur is underweight, average, or overweight, each state altering how the game plays.

A lot of players don't even know about the system until they see their stats change or get a message in the Player menu.

This guide will tell you exactly how Arthur's weight impacts the game, what happens when he's overweight or underweight, and how to get him back to a healthy size.

How Arthur’s Weight System Works

What affects Arthur's weight:

• How often do you eat?

• What do you eat?

• How often do you sleep?

• Core energy loss from fighting, traveling, and injuries.

The game keeps a low-key count of calories you eat against how much energy you burn. As time goes on, Arthur will switch between three states:

• Underweight

• Average

• Overweight

To see Arthur's current weight, just go to the Player menu.

How to Check Arthur’s Weight

1. Press Esc

2. Go to Player

3. Select Arthur

4. Look at the Weight indicator

The game will tell you if Arthur's weight is too low, normal, or too high.

Arthur Underweight Effects

Arthur will become underweight if he doesn’t eat enough or if his cores are constantly drained.

Underweight Gameplay Effects

• Less health

• Stamina goes down faster

• Moves a bit faster

• Not as strong in long fights

Skinny Arthur? He's easier to kill. Sure, he might seem quicker, but he can't take as much damage, especially when things get heated.

What Causes Underweight

• Skipping meals

• Only eating small snacks

• Constant sprinting and combat

• Rarely sleeping

Players who spend too much time on missions and exploring, and not enough time resting at camp or in saloons, might find this happening to them.

Arthur Overweight Effects

Arthur might gain weight if he eats a lot and doesn't move much.

Overweight Gameplay Effects

• More health

• Stamina recovers slower

• Move a bit slower

• Harder to hurt physically

Arthur, carrying a bit of extra weight, can really take a beating and last longer in a fight. That said, he gets tired quicker when he has to run or travel long distances.

What Causes Overweight

• Eating multiple full meals daily

• Frequent cooked meat consumption

• Sleeping often

• Limited stamina-heavy activity

Hunters who cook often tend to be overweight.

Is Overweight or Underweight Better?

Both options have their pros and cons; one isn't necessarily better than the other.

For most players, a middle-weight build gives you a good mix of defense and speed.

How to Gain Weight (Fix Underweight Arthur)

To help Arthur gain weight:

• Eat full meals instead of just snacking.

• Cook and eat big game meat.

• Eat several times each in-game day.

• Get regular sleep.

Best Foods for Weight Gain

• Cooked big game meat

• Stew at camp

• Saloon meals

Arthur needs to eat regularly; one meal is not going to cut it.

How to Lose Weight (Fix Overweight Arthur)

Okay, here's how to help Arthur lose weight.

• Eat fewer meals.

• Don't eat cooked meats.

• Sprint and bike often.

• Fight and travel long distances.

• Get less sleep.

When trying to lose weight, keep in mind that it takes time. Be patient with the process.

How Long Does Weight Change Take?

Arthur's weight changes over in the game, not all at once.

• Minor changes usually take a day or two.

• Bigger changes can take several days to show.

This is made to feel natural.

Does Weight Affect Appearance?

If Arthur is overweight, his face and body will look fuller. If he's underweight, he'll appear thinner and maybe a bit tired.

His clothes will still fit the same, but his movements and how he stands might look a little different.

Does Weight Affect Story or Dialogue?

Weight doesn't change the main story, but:

• NPCs might say different things.

• Arthur looks different in scenes.

The weight system impacts gameplay more than the story.

Best Weight for Most Players

Basic Tips:

• Maintain a healthy weight.

• Eat one or two meals daily.

• Keep a consistent sleep schedule.

• Avoid doing anything in excess.

This makes Arthur good at fighting and exploring.

Final Takeaway

The weight system for Arthur Morgan in Red Dead Redemption 2 is not obvious, but it does have an impact on the game.

• Being underweight makes Arthur quicker, but he can't take as much damage.

• Being overweight makes him tougher, but he moves slower.

• Average weight gives you the best of both worlds.

Pay attention to Arthur's meals, rest, and activities to manage his condition and adjust him to how you want to play.