‘Red Dead Online’ release date: Standalone game requires 123GB disk space; $5 pricing available for a limited time only

Video game fans can experience Rockstar’s take on an open-world American frontier even without buying a full copy of any “Red Dead Redemption” title. “Red Dead Online” will be launched as a standalone game starting next month, with introductory pricing available for a limited period.

‘Red Dead Online’ gameplay: What to expect

New players should not worry about missing out on anything if they are jumping into the franchise by playing “Red Dead Online” first. The standalone release will include all the story and gameplay elements introduced in the multiplayer mode, such as the ability to choose among the five Specialist Roles. These are somewhat the core of “Red Dead Online” as it influences the whole gameplay experience. Players can choose to explore the game as a Bounty Hunter, Naturalist, Trader, Collector, and Moonshine distillery operator.

At launch, “Red Dead Online” will also include other staple gameplay elements such as Free Roam Missions, Showdown Modes, and poker matches. Rockstar also confirmed that “all future content updates” will be available to those who will purchase the standalone game.

“Red Dead Online” will launch independently on PC through Steam and Epic Games Store, PlayStation 4, and Xbox One. The console versions will play on PS5 and Xbox Series X/S through backward compatibility. Note that even without the single-player campaign mode, the game will still require a hefty disk space of “up to 123GB.”

‘Red Dead Online’ release date, price

It has been a trend among video game developers to launch accompanying free-to-play online multiplayer modes for franchises that do not get a new main series installment for several years. This has been the case for Rockstar Games’ “Red Dead Redemption” and “Grand Theft Auto.” And since online multiplayer modes like “Red Dead Online” regularly get updates and new content, it is not surprising that it has grown enough to be a game of its own.

After more than a year, “Red Dead Online” will no longer be a free-to-play, accompanying multiplayer mode for “Red Dead Redemption 2.” Starting Tuesday, Dec. 1, it will be sold as a standalone game allowing players who have yet to play the single-player action-adventure sequel to experience the popular action-adventure franchise.

The standalone “Red Dead Online” will also be available for a cheap price of $4.99, but Rockstar calls it an “introductory offer.” That means the cost of the online multiplayer game is bound to increase after a certain period. After Feb. 15, 2021, the game will be sold at its regular price of $19.99.