What Order Should I Play Red Dead Games In?

To play the Red Dead games in the correct order, start with Red Dead Revolver (2004), followed by Red Dead Redemption (2010), then Red Dead Redemption 2 (2018), and finally, if you want to include it, Red Dead Redemption: Undead Nightmare can be played after completing Red Dead Redemption. The correct chronological order of the series is Red Dead Revolver, Red Dead Redemption 2, Red Dead Redemption, but playing them in release order or chronological order both have their benefits and drawbacks, which are discussed further below.

Introduction to the Series

The Red Dead series is a collection of open-world western games developed by Rockstar Games, known for their engaging storylines, immersive gameplay, and detailed game worlds. Understanding the correct order to play these games can enhance the player’s experience, especially considering the interconnected storylines and character developments across the series.

Playing the Games in Release Order

Playing the Red Dead games in their release order (Red Dead Revolver, Red Dead Redemption, Red Dead Redemption: Undead Nightmare, and Red Dead Redemption 2) allows players to appreciate the evolution of gameplay mechanics and graphics quality over time. This order also presents the story as the developers initially intended, with each game building upon the previous one in terms of narrative and character development.

Playing the Games in Chronological Order

On the other hand, playing the games in chronological order (Red Dead Revolver, Red Dead Redemption 2, Red Dead Redemption) offers a different perspective, focusing on the timeline of events within the Red Dead universe. This order can provide a more linear narrative experience, especially for players interested in following the historical progression of the characters and the decline of the Wild West.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the first Red Dead game? The first Red Dead game is Red Dead Revolver, released in 2004 for PlayStation 2 and Xbox, set in 1880 during the American Old West.

2. Should I play Red Dead Redemption 1 before 2? While it’s not necessary, playing Red Dead Redemption before Red Dead Redemption 2 can enhance your understanding and appreciation of certain characters and gameplay improvements in Red Dead Redemption 2.

3. Is Red Dead Revolver necessary to play? Red Dead Revolver is not essential to understand the story in Red Dead Redemption or Red Dead Redemption 2, as Red Dead Redemption is a spiritual successor rather than a direct sequel.

4. Will there be a Red Dead Redemption 3? There have been hints and teases from Rockstar Games about a potential Red Dead Redemption 3, but no official announcement has been made, with speculations suggesting it might be released around 2026 at the earliest.

5. Is Arthur Morgan in Red Dead Redemption 1? Arthur Morgan is not mentioned in Red Dead Redemption 1 because he was not a character conceived at the time of its development.

6. Does Red Dead Redemption 1 spoil Red Dead Redemption 2? Playing Red Dead Redemption 1 before Red Dead Redemption 2 can spoil some characters and events in Red Dead Redemption 2, as it reveals the fates of certain characters.

7. Should I play Red Dead 1 or 2 first? It’s recommended to play Red Dead Redemption 2 first due to its superior gameplay and the fact that it’s a prequel, making the progression to Red Dead Redemption 1 feel natural storywise.

8. How old is Jack in Red Dead Redemption 1? By the end of Red Dead Redemption 1, Jack Marston is 19 years old.

9. How old is Arthur Morgan? Arthur Morgan is 36 years old in Red Dead Redemption 2.

10. Which Red Dead game is better? Red Dead Redemption 2 is generally considered better than Red Dead Redemption due to its vast open world, detailed graphics, and engaging storyline.

11. Is GTA V or Red Dead Redemption better? The preference between GTA V and Red Dead Redemption 2 depends on personal taste, with GTA V focusing on action and Red Dead Redemption 2 offering a more realistic and grounded experience.

12. How old is John Marston in Red Dead Redemption 2? John Marston is 26 years old in Red Dead Redemption 2.

13. What would Red Dead Redemption 3 be about? Speculations suggest Red Dead Redemption 3 could be another prequel focusing on Dutch van der Linde and Hosea Matthews, exploring how they founded the van der Linde gang.

14. Can Arthur Morgan live in Red Dead Redemption 2? Unfortunately, Arthur Morgan’s death is inevitable due to his contraction of tuberculosis, making his survival impossible.

15. Will Arthur Morgan be back in Red Dead Redemption 3? The only possible return of Arthur Morgan could be as a zombie in an Undead Nightmare sequel, given his death in Red Dead Redemption 2.

Conclusion

The Red Dead series offers a unique gaming experience, with each game contributing to a broader narrative that explores the themes of redemption, loyalty, and the decline of the Wild West. Whether you choose to play the games in their release order or chronological order, understanding the connections between the stories and characters can significantly enhance your enjoyment of the series. As the gaming community awaits Red Dead Redemption 3, revisiting the previous games can provide insights into the characters and storylines that might be explored in the future installment.