Red Dead Redemption 2's dog has sadly died
There are some pretty iconic dogs in gaming. The Shiba behind it all in Silent Hill, Cerberus in Hades, Dogmeat in Fallout 4 and Rex from New Vegas - furry friends are in many ways a fresh emotional core in video games by merely existing.
Their appearance can often be an invitation to immersion in games that haven't yet been able to get its hooks in a player. Plus, as the iconic Can You Pet The Dog? Twitter account proves, players always want to pay tribute to their little pals in games. And now, the time has come to pay tribute to a very good boy.
Red Dead Redemption 2's Cain has passed away
It has sadly been revealed that Einstein Barnes, the Blue Heeler who played the dog Cain in Red Dead Redemption 2 has crossed the rainbow bridge at 13 years of age. Einstein was was owned by RDR 2's animator Jason Barnes, who has paid tribute to the dog on Instagram.
View this post on Instagram
"Einstein was truly one of a kind," he says. "From the moment we met, we formed a deep bond, and it was clear that we were destined for countless adventures together. Though our time together has come to an end, your memory will live on forever.
"Red Dead Redemption 2 may immortalise you as Cain, but it is the memories we created together that truly preserve your spirit. The lessons you taught me about loyalty, love, and living life to the fullest will never be forgotten." Oh boy.
Fans pay tribute to Einstein
Click to enlargeFans have taken to the comments to share their respect for Einstein, remembering his efforts as an actor and a general good boy. "Run free sweet Einstein!" says one commenter. "You left an indelible mark on all who knew you."
"Einstein was the reason I really wanted to get a dog," says another. "He was the goodest and coolest example we could ever have." A third said, "You’ll never have another Einstein, Jason, but you were lucky to have this one," and a fourth concluded, "You brought joy to so many, even those you've never met!"
It's a stark realisation that the Grim Reaper comes for us all, and just like River who played Dogmeat in Fallout 4, Einstein had gone to doggy heaven. The wee guy has been immortalised in the game, and will no doubt be remembered for years to come. Now that's a good boy.
