Red Dead Redemption 2 to launch online beta version

The developers of Red Dead Redemption 2 have announced its release as an online beta following the Wild West game’s major global success.

Wilson Smith

2 min read

November 29, 2018 - 8:53AM

Red Dead Redemption 2 will be launched this month as an online beta version.

Just over a month after Red Dead Redemption 2 arrived on our video consoles, game developer Rockstar has confirmed that the online beta version will roll out this week.

Finally, gamers around the world will be able to fulfil their childhood fantasies of exploring the Wild West with their mates.

The beta has already launched for some users, perfect timing for those looking for another Red Dead hit after finishing the game’s 60 hour plus story mode.

Red Dead Redemption 2 screen shot for Scene tech page.

Those who purchased the Ultimate Edition of the game will have access now, while other users will be able to join in from Friday.

The staggered release was likely designed to prevent or reduce similar issues that affected the release of Grand Theft Auto online back in 2013.

Given that this is a beta, players should still expect to encounter bugs and a number of changes to the game.

With the gameplay of Red Dead Redemption 2 at the core of Red Dead Online, Rockstar has promised that the landscapes, cityscapes and natural habitats of the world will be transformed into one shared universe by multiple players.

Red Dead Redemption 2 screen shot for Scene tech page.

Players will be able to create and customise their own characters in a way that suits their own style, and either participate alone or with friends.

The beta version also allows players to create or join a posse of up to seven players and go hunting, attack enemy gangs and hideouts and navigate missions.

Representatives from Rockstar claim the beta launch is just the first step in a dynamic new world, and given its size and scale, some turbulence or teething issues should be expected.

As such, Rockstar is encouraging players to report any issues they encounter, and to share ideas to make Red Dead online the best it can be.

While the beta will be free to players, we can probably expect micro-transactions to be introduced in the full Online Mode, given how much money Grand Theft Auto online has made over its lifetime.