Red Dead Redemption 2's Nod to Nikola Tesla: Marko Dragic's Ingenious Tale

Red Dead Redemption 2 prides itself on its narrative centered around fictional characters, but it also draws inspiration from real-world personalities in many of its in-game portrayals. This becomes evident, especially in the extensive side content, where several Stranger characters bear uncanny resemblances to some of the era's most renowned figures.

One of the standout Stranger characters in Red Dead Redemption 2 is Marko Dragic, an eccentric inventor with grand ambitions and an imposing personality. Marko Dragic's character, motives, and inventions closely parallel those of the real-world Serbian-American inventor, Nikola Tesla, making it clear that RDR 2 is paying homage to this famous historical figure.

Marko Dragic and Nikola Tesla in Red Dead Redemption 2

Players first encounter Marko Dragic in the Stranger side-mission "A Bright Bouncing Boy" in Red Dead Redemption 2. In this initial interaction, players assist Dragic in demonstrating a remote-controlled toy boat, a technological marvel in the game's 1899 setting. Impressed by Dragic's intellect, the player is invited to visit his laboratory for a subsequent meeting, where the allusions to Nikola Tesla become unmistakable.

Dragic's laboratory is an imposing structure nestled in the wilds of Red Dead Redemption 2, adorned with an array of electrical conductors and lightning rods reminiscent of Tesla's real-life Wardenclyffe Tower, where he conducted groundbreaking experiments. This strong visual resemblance confirms the connection between Dragic and the renowned inventor. Inside the laboratory, Arthur Morgan assists Dragic with various electrical experiments, culminating in the creation of a robot that roams the game world after the quest's completion.

Marko Dragic's Stranger mission in RDR2 provides players with a character-driven experience, showcasing the striking parallels between Dragic and Tesla. Nikola Tesla is celebrated for his pioneering work in the field of electricity, often regarded as the father of modern electrical technology worldwide. Dragic's role as an inventor, professor, and electrical enthusiast mirrors Tesla's accomplishments closely.

The game's nod to Tesla is fitting considering the inventor's significance during the time period of Red Dead Redemption 2. In 1899, Tesla would have been approximately 33 years old, deeply immersed in his groundbreaking work, coincidentally around the same age as Marko Dragic during the game's setting. While not explicitly mentioned, it is plausible that Dragic shares Serbian heritage with Tesla, given that "Dragic" is a Slavic name with strong ties to Serbia.

Furthermore, Marko Dragic bears a striking physical resemblance to Tesla, both sporting cropped black hair and facial hair. However, Dragic's beard is more pronounced compared to Tesla's mustache. Interestingly, the Marko Dragic quest concludes with the character's mysterious death, despite Tesla living into the 1940s and passing away at the age of 86.

Despite this discrepancy, Marko Dragic's eccentric experiments and the enigma surrounding his character serve as a fitting tribute to Tesla. The mission stands out due to its meticulous references to the real-world inventor. Considering Tesla's status as one of the era's brightest minds, it comes as no surprise that Rockstar Games chose to pay homage to him extensively in the game's side content.