How to Get Red Dead Online Free: A Comprehensive Guide
The question of how to get Red Dead Online (RDO) for free is a common one, given the popularity of this vast multiplayer experience. The answer is nuanced: while Red Dead Online itself is not entirely free, there are ways to access it without purchasing it separately. Let’s break down the options, clarify the costs involved, and address common misconceptions.
Essentially, Red Dead Online is included with the purchase of Red Dead Redemption 2. If you own the main game on any platform (PlayStation, Xbox, or PC), you already have access to the full Red Dead Online experience. You don’t need to pay extra for it, as it’s part of the initial package. Therefore, the only way to get Red Dead Online “free” is to buy Red Dead Redemption 2.
The confusion arises from the fact that Red Dead Online is also available as a standalone purchase. This means you can buy only the online multiplayer component if you’re not interested in the story mode. This standalone version is usually cheaper than the full game, but it is not free.
In summary, you can’t get Red Dead Online completely free. You either get it by buying Red Dead Redemption 2 or by purchasing Red Dead Online as a standalone product. Let’s explore these options further.
How to Access Red Dead Online
Owning Red Dead Redemption 2
If you own Red Dead Redemption 2 on any platform, accessing RDO is straightforward. Here’s how:
- Start Red Dead Redemption 2: Launch the game as you normally would.
- Main Menu: Upon starting, you’ll be presented with the main menu screen.
- Select Online: In the main menu, you will typically find the option to select either “Story” or “Online”. Use your controller’s shoulder buttons (typically L1/LB or R1/RB) to navigate between the two options. Select “Online”.
- Jump In: Once you select “Online,” you’ll load into the Red Dead Online world and can start playing immediately.
Buying Red Dead Online Standalone
If you don’t own Red Dead Redemption 2, you can still experience the multiplayer by purchasing the standalone version of Red Dead Online. This version is available on the following platforms:
- PC (Steam): You can find it on the Steam Store for a dedicated price.
- PlayStation Store & Microsoft Store: If you are on console, check out their respective stores to find the standalone RDO.
Important Note About Console Play
Regardless of how you access Red Dead Online on a console (either through RDR2 or the standalone purchase), remember that online multiplayer requires an active PlayStation Plus subscription on PlayStation consoles or an Xbox Game Pass Core or Ultimate subscription on Xbox consoles. These subscriptions are purchased separately from the game itself.
Why the Confusion?
The confusion surrounding free access stems from various sources:
- Initial “Beta” Phase: Red Dead Online had a beta period during its launch, which may have led to some misunderstanding about free access after the launch.
- Standalone Option: The availability of a standalone RDO version can lead people to assume that the full game’s multiplayer is also free.
- Limited Time Promotions: While rare, there are occasionally promotions which could include discounted or bundled versions of the game, but never completely free.
- Rumors & Misinformation: Online rumors sometimes spread claims of RDR2 becoming free, which are usually unsubstantiated.
Red Dead Online: Worth the Cost?
Whether you acquire it through RDR2 or as a standalone purchase, RDO offers a massive open-world experience with various activities. If you enjoy the world and setting of Red Dead Redemption 2, the online mode is an excellent way to explore it with friends or other online players.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is Red Dead Online free to play?
No, Red Dead Online is not entirely free to play. You need to either own Red Dead Redemption 2 or purchase the standalone Red Dead Online game. Console users also need to have an active subscription to their respective online service.
2. Can I play Red Dead Online without owning Red Dead Redemption 2?
Yes, you can. Red Dead Online can be purchased as a standalone product, independent of the main game.
3. Is Red Dead Online included in Red Dead Redemption 2?
Yes, Red Dead Online is included in all editions of Red Dead Redemption 2. If you own the base game, you have access to the online mode.
4. Is Red Dead Online free on Steam?
No, Red Dead Online is not free on Steam. You must purchase the standalone version from the Steam store.
5. Do I need a PlayStation Plus subscription to play Red Dead Online on PlayStation?
Yes, you need an active PlayStation Plus subscription to access the online multiplayer mode on PlayStation consoles.
6. Do I need Xbox Game Pass to play Red Dead Online on Xbox?
Yes, you need an active Xbox Game Pass Core or Ultimate subscription to play Red Dead Online on Xbox consoles.
7. Is Red Dead Online pay-to-win?
Red Dead Online can feel pay-to-win because players can purchase in-game currency for better items. However, skill and experience play a larger role in success. While microtransactions can give a boost, it doesn’t guarantee victory.
8. How big is Red Dead Online?
The standalone version of Red Dead Online requires up to 123GB of disk space. The full Red Dead Redemption 2 package needs even more.
9. Can I play Red Dead Online alone?
Yes, you can play Red Dead Online in solo sessions. While the online mode is designed for multiplayer, you can log in to lobbies by yourself and complete activities alone.
10. Is Red Dead Online like GTA Online?
Both RDR2 and GTA 5 feature multiplayer modes, however they approach it in different ways. While GTA Online is focused on high-octane action, Red Dead Online offers a more grounded and slower-paced experience.
11. Is there a monthly fee for Red Dead Online?
There is no monthly fee to play Red Dead Online, however, there are optional seasonal passes that you can purchase that unlock special content. You still have to purchase the game and online subscription seperately if on console.
12. Will there be a Red Dead Redemption 3?
While Rockstar Games has not officially announced Red Dead Redemption 3, there are hints that suggest that a sequel is possible. It is unlikely to be released anytime soon, with 2026 being the earliest possible estimate.
13. Can you buy just the online part of Red Dead?
Yes, you can buy Red Dead Online as a standalone game if you do not wish to purchase Red Dead Redemption 2.
14. Is RDR2 online worth playing in 2023?
Yes, Red Dead Online remains a worthwhile experience in 2023, especially if you have friends to play with. There’s a lot of content, and it’s an excellent way to enjoy the Red Dead Redemption 2 world.
15. Can I get free horses in RDR2?
Yes, there are several good horses that you can acquire for free in Red Dead Redemption 2, including the purebred white Arabian and other wild breeds. Finding and taming these wild horses is part of the gameplay.
By understanding these factors, you can make informed decisions about how to access the immersive world of Red Dead Online. Whether you dive in with the full Red Dead Redemption 2 experience or purchase the standalone version, there’s plenty to explore in this expansive online world.