You will appreciate the story of 2 a lot more if you have played 1. They closely tie together.

Also, RDR1 is a spectacular game. 2 is better and worse in various ways. 1 is more video-gamey; 2 is more simulation.

That said, if you’re not all that interested in 1, 2 is just fine on its own!

I read a book called Adult Children of Emotionally Immature Parents. My mom is similar, and it gave me a lot of insight into why she behaves the way she does, and how I may have developed unhealthy coping mechanisms as a result. Highly recommend.

They did, but the majority of the story took place in a single universe. The art style differences were usually restricted to the individual characters.

Love the OG! I’ve heard Thousand Year Door is even better but I haven’t gotten around to playing it.

Does Switch Online have save states? If so, don’t be afraid to use them. It’s more punishing than newer Fire Emblem games.