Red Dead Redemption 2's Online Mode Launches In November As A Beta

Anyone who's ever taken part in an evolving online video game world knows that it can feel a bit like venturing out into the lawless frontiers of the Wild West - ideal for a game like Red Dead Redemption 2!

While there hasn't been a whole lot shared in terms of spoilers, the game is nearly here, and Rockstar has now announced a connected online experience for the game called Red Dead Online.

Speaking with IGN, the developer said that they have taken what they have learned from GTA Online and made sure to create the best experience possible with Red Dead Online (RDO).

The announcement doesn't discuss much, but it does promise an evolution of the "classic multiplayer experience" present in the first Red Dead Redemption game, as well as a focus on a strong narrative, as well as solid competitive and cooperative gameplay. Rockstar is keeping details to a minimum, but we already know enough about the game's connection to both the campaign and GTA Online to start building hype right now.

Rockstar says the "initial" launch will be a beta and players should expect some instability and issues in the early days. It'll be playable alone or with pals, and the studio is unsurprisingly committing itself "to constant updates and adjustments to grow and evolve this experience for all players". However, the mode's popularity arguably came at the cost of the single player experience: teased DLC never materialized, and numerous features GTA Online has received over time haven't been implemented into the core game. Community outreach will be a big part of the initial launch, with Rockstar stating it looks forward to interacting with fans to shape Red Dead Online into a success.

As such, the team took the "best elements and content packs" from "GTA Online" for use with what would debut in "Red Dead Online".