Do You Need Red Dead Online if You Have Red Dead Redemption 2? The Definitive Answer
The short answer is no. If you own Red Dead Redemption 2 (RDR2), you already have access to Red Dead Online. It comes bundled with the game. However, there’s a catch – and it’s a big one for console players. While the game is included, actually playing online requires a subscription service if you’re on PlayStation or Xbox. So, let’s dive into the details of what that means for you and your posse.
Red Dead Online: Included, But Not Necessarily “Free”
Think of Red Dead Online as a second, separately developed game that lives within the Red Dead Redemption 2 universe. It utilizes the same stunning open-world environment, familiar gameplay mechanics, and distinct Western atmosphere, but it presents a fundamentally different experience centered around multiplayer interactions and ongoing content updates. Rockstar, in fact, views them as separate entities.
The core point here is that owning Red Dead Redemption 2 grants you the license to access Red Dead Online. You’ve already paid for that part. But on consoles, you also need to cough up money to Microsoft (Xbox Live Gold or Xbox Game Pass Ultimate) or Sony (PlayStation Plus) to connect to their online services and play any multiplayer game – including this one.
On PC, however, you don’t need any additional subscriptions. If you own RDR2 on PC, you can jump straight into the world of Red Dead Online without further fees.
The Console Subscription Caveat
This is where things get a little frustrating for console gamers. While Red Dead Online is “free” in the sense that it’s included with your Red Dead Redemption 2 purchase, you still need an active Xbox Live Gold/Game Pass Ultimate or PlayStation Plus subscription to play it on your respective console. Without one of these subscriptions, you won’t be able to access the online features and join other players in the game.
Think of it this way: owning the car (RDR2) doesn’t mean you get free access to the highway (online multiplayer). You still need to pay a toll (subscription fee) to use it.
What About the Standalone Version of Red Dead Online?
There was a period where Red Dead Online was available as a standalone purchase. This was mainly to entice players who weren’t necessarily interested in the single-player campaign but wanted to experience the online world. However, this is no longer the case. If you buy Red Dead Redemption 2, you get Red Dead Online and vice-versa. Buying one unlocks both.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Red Dead Online
Here are some common questions players have about accessing and playing Red Dead Online:
1. Is Red Dead Online included with every edition of Red Dead Redemption 2?
Yes, Red Dead Online is included with every edition of Red Dead Redemption 2, regardless of whether you purchase the Standard, Special, or Ultimate Edition.
2. Can I play Red Dead Redemption 2 without the internet?
Absolutely. Red Dead Redemption 2’s single-player story mode is entirely playable offline. You only need an internet connection for the initial download and setup of the game, and, of course, to play Red Dead Online.
3. Is RDR2 online worth playing in 2024 (and beyond)?
Whether Red Dead Online is “worth playing” depends on your preferences. If you enjoy open-world exploration, character customization, and cooperative or competitive multiplayer experiences, then it can be a rewarding experience. The world is beautifully rendered, and there’s plenty to do. Some find the grind tedious, while others enjoy the slow progression. Recent lack of updates by Rockstar may deter future players.
4. What is the point of Red Dead Online?
In Red Dead Online, you create your own character and embark on a journey through the American West. You can complete story missions, engage in various roles (Bounty Hunter, Trader, Collector, etc.), participate in free roam activities, and interact with other players in a dynamic online world. Your character starts with a revenge plot and then branches out into various open-world activities.
5. Why did Red Dead Online “fail”?
The perception that Red Dead Online “failed” stems from the fact that it didn’t receive the same level of ongoing content updates and support as Grand Theft Auto Online (GTA Online). Many players felt that Rockstar neglected the game, leading to a decline in player interest.
6. What pays the most in Red Dead Online?
Different roles offer different payout structures in Red Dead Online. Currently, Bounty Hunting is often cited as one of the most lucrative roles, offering a good balance of money and gold. But the payouts are not exactly overwhelming.
7. Is Red Dead Redemption 2 online pay-to-win?
No, Red Dead Online isn’t truly pay-to-win. While you can purchase gold bars with real money, which can be used to acquire certain items and speed up your progression, it’s entirely possible to succeed and enjoy the game without spending any additional money. The grind can be intense, but it’s doable.
8. Is it better to have high or low honor in RDR2 online?
Having high or low honor in Red Dead Online affects the types of missions you receive and how NPCs react to you. There isn’t necessarily a “better” choice; it depends on your preferred playstyle. High honor players tend to receive more benevolent missions, while low honor players get more outlaw-oriented tasks.
9. What is the difference between RDR2 story mode and online?
The main difference lies in the narrative focus. Red Dead Redemption 2’s story mode has a compelling, character-driven story with a defined protagonist (Arthur Morgan). Red Dead Online, on the other hand, is a multiplayer experience where you create your own character and shape your own story in a persistent online world.
10. Can you play as a girl in RDR2 Online?
Yes, Red Dead Online allows you to create and play as a female character.
11. Can you rob banks in RDR2 online?
Yes! However, to unlock the mission, players will need to have low honor.
12. Can you transfer progress from story mode to online?
No, there is no way to transfer progress from the story mode to the online mode. They are treated as separate experiences.
13. How much money is enough in RDR2 online?
“Enough” money in Red Dead Online is subjective and depends on your goals. To fully enjoy the game and purchase all the items you desire, you’ll likely need several thousand dollars.
14. Is Red Dead Online cross-platform?
No, Red Dead Online does not support cross-platform play. This means that players on PlayStation cannot play with players on Xbox or PC.
15. Is it safe for kids to play Red Dead Online?
Red Dead Online is rated M for Mature (17+) due to its violence, strong language, and mature themes. Parents should carefully consider whether the content is appropriate for their children. Use parental controls if needed to restrict who the children can interact with.
Ultimately, Red Dead Online offers a vast and engaging multiplayer experience for fans of the Red Dead Redemption series. Whether you find it worthwhile depends on your individual preferences and expectations. While it requires a console subscription for PlayStation and Xbox players, the core game experience comes bundled with Red Dead Redemption 2. Understanding this distinction is crucial before diving into the Wild West online. Learning through games can be engaging and interactive. For more information on games and learning, visit the Games Learning Society at https://www.gameslearningsociety.org/.