Do I Have to Play RDR2 Story Before Online? The Definitive Answer
The question of whether you need to experience the single-player story mode of Red Dead Redemption 2 (RDR2) before diving into Red Dead Online is a common one, especially for those eager to explore the Wild West with friends or on their own. The short answer is: no, you are not required to play the RDR2 story mode before jumping into Red Dead Online. They are separate experiences with independent characters and progression. However, the longer, more nuanced answer delves into the advantages of experiencing the story mode first. This article will provide clarity on this topic, along with answers to other common questions, helping you make the most informed decision.
The Separation of Story and Online
It’s crucial to understand that your single-player character and all progress made within the story campaign are entirely separate from your Red Dead Online character and progression. This means anything you achieve as Arthur Morgan won’t translate to your online cowboy or cowgirl, and vice-versa. Upon entering Red Dead Online, you’ll create a brand-new character from scratch, customizing their appearance and background.
Why Starting with Story Mode is Recommended
While not mandatory, playing the RDR2 story mode before Red Dead Online offers several key benefits:
- Mastering the Controls: The sprawling world of RDR2 can be initially overwhelming, and the story mode serves as a fantastic training ground. You’ll have ample opportunity to learn the controls, combat mechanics, horse riding, and inventory management at your own pace, with the story acting as a guide. This will provide you with a much smoother transition into the more dynamic and unpredictable world of Red Dead Online.
- Avoiding Spoilers: Red Dead Online is set in the same world as the story mode. Spoilers are inevitable if you venture into the online experience without any prior knowledge of the characters and the setting. Player interaction can lead to discussions about the story, potentially ruining the experience for you if you choose to tackle the single-player campaign later.
- Familiarizing Yourself with the World: The story mode immerses you in the world’s lore, locations, and intricate details. Understanding the nuances of the environment, towns, and notable characters enhances your overall appreciation for the world, benefiting both single-player and online experiences. It provides context that is missing in just jumping into online.
Red Dead Online as a Standalone Experience
Red Dead Online is designed to function as a standalone experience. You can purchase it separately from the main RDR2 game, meaning you don’t need the single-player component to access it. Furthermore, even if you don’t have the full RDR2 game and purchase the online standalone, you will still have access to the single-player story mode if Red Dead Online is on Game Pass. If Red Dead Online is removed from Game Pass you will not have access to the story mode.
What Awaits You in Red Dead Online
In Red Dead Online, you create your character and are free to explore the open world alone, or form a “posse” (a group) with friends or other players. You’ll engage in activities like:
- Free Roam Events: Participate in random challenges that pop up across the map.
- Story Missions: Engage in cooperative missions that advance a narrative within the online world.
- Role Progression: Choose from several roles like Bounty Hunter, Collector, Trader, Naturalist, and Moonshiner, each offering unique gameplay and progression systems.
- Hunting and Fishing: Explore the wilderness, hunt animals for resources, and cast your line for a relaxing day.
- Player vs Player: Engage in shootouts and other competitive events with other players.
The Online Experience is Unique
It’s important to note that Red Dead Online, while sharing the same world as the story mode, offers a very different experience. You are not playing as Arthur Morgan; you are controlling a custom character. While free roam is similar, the online gameplay is geared towards multiplayer interactions and persistent progression.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
To further help you navigate the complexities of RDR2, we’ve compiled a list of frequently asked questions:
Can I play Red Dead Online alone?
Yes, you can absolutely play Red Dead Online solo. The game has recently introduced the option to play in lobbies with only yourself, allowing you to complete missions, dailies, and free roam activities without other player interaction. This is great for those who prefer a more solitary experience or want to avoid “griefers.”
Does story mode affect online RDR2?
No, player progression in the single-player story does not affect the multiplayer game. They are entirely separate and independent. You start fresh with a new character in the online mode, with separate stats, money, and belongings.
Can I get 100% completion in RDR2 without playing online?
Yes, absolutely. The 100% completion criteria for RDR2 only applies to the story mode and can be tracked in the ‘Progress’ menu. Online trophies are not required for this achievement.
What should I do first in Red Dead Online?
A good start in Red Dead Online includes checking for any character creation bonuses, completing the early story missions, acquiring a horse and insurance, visiting your camp, exploring free roam events, and potentially starting a role like the Collector or Bounty Hunter. Choosing an honor path and upgrading your ability cards early can also greatly benefit you.
How is Red Dead 2 online different from single-player?
While the core free roam experience is similar, you create and play as your own character in Red Dead Online, rather than as Arthur Morgan. Online is geared towards player interaction and a focus on multiplayer missions, roles, and events.
Is Red Dead Online just for multiplayer?
No. While it has strong multiplayer elements, Red Dead Online can be enjoyed as a hunting, fishing, and exploration sim by solo players. The option to play alone or in private lobbies further enhances its appeal to those who prefer a solo approach.
Can I play as a female character in Red Dead Online?
Yes, Red Dead Online offers the option to create and play as a female character.
Is it better to be good or bad in RDR2 Online?
In Red Dead Online, your honor choice influences the story missions you have access to, the cost of certain items and interactions, and some of the dialogue and interactions. A higher honor generally provides an easier experience, but a low honor path offers more outlaw-style opportunities.
Is Red Dead 2 Online better than GTA Online?
Both games offer unique experiences. GTA Online focuses on modern criminal activities in a contemporary city, while RDR2 focuses on the wild west. While GTA Online is more popular, many players prefer the authentic Wild West feeling and slower pace of RDR2, once again it is about preference.
Is Red Dead Online worth getting into?
If you enjoy online games, and the Old West setting appeals to you, Red Dead Online is absolutely worth trying. Whether you choose the standalone version or get the complete RDR2 experience with the story, it is a fantastic game with plenty to do.
What pays more in Red Dead Online?
Bounty Hunting is considered one of the most lucrative roles in Red Dead Online. It provides a good balance of money and gold, along with opportunities to acquire loot for the Collector role, making it a good choice for earning fast.
Which should I play first RDR or RDR2?
RDR2 should be played first. It acts as a prequel to the original Red Dead Redemption, providing context for the events in the first game and enhancing the understanding of characters like John Marston.
Why isn’t Red Dead Online as popular as GTA Online?
RDO’s decline was due to a lack of continued content development. GTA Online received more attention, which further perpetuated this problem.
What are the best roles in RDR2 online?
The “best” role depends on your playstyle. However, the Moonshiner role is often considered one of the most rewarding and engaging by players. Other popular roles include Bounty Hunter, Trader, and Collector.
What happens if I get killed in Red Dead Online?
There are no major repercussions to dying in Red Dead Online. You simply respawn a short distance away with all your items and money intact.
Conclusion
While it is not required to play the single-player story mode before starting Red Dead Online, it is highly recommended. The story mode offers a crucial learning experience and provides context that enriches your overall enjoyment of the world and avoids spoilers that are inevitable in Red Dead Online. Whether you start with single-player, or dive straight into Red Dead Online, remember that both offer unique and memorable experiences. Now armed with this information, you are better equipped to choose your own path in the wild west.