Just a few hours ago, Rockstar Games once again released a hype-worthy gameplay video that showcased some of the gameplay mechanics fans can expect from Red Dead Redemption 2. If that wasn’t able to scratch your itch, we’re here with more!
Over on the PlayStation Blog, Sony listed 22 Red Dead Redemption 2 facts that should help make the wait easier — or harder — until October 26. Did you know that the Red Dead Redemption 2 HUD (heads-up display) can be customized to some degree? Thought you didn’t. Read on for more factoids about Rockstar’s upcoming western shooter!
A robbery gone wrong puts the story in motion.
You play as Arthur Morgan, member of the infamous Van der Linde outlaw gang. Following a bloody robbery in the Western town of Blackwater that left a trail of dead, the gang is chased by the law East into the Grizzly Mountains. The game picks up as the gang is fighting to survive against the elements of a brutally cold winter.
The Van Der Linde gang is a rowdy bunch, but they’re like family.
Lead by the philosopher-outlaw Dutch van der Linde, this gang of hellraisers is 23 members strong. Doing your part for the gang will raise morale and change the way gang members respond to you. Talk to fellow members for leads on new money-making activities for the gang, or roll up your sleeves and chop some wood or head out to hunt wild game. Or, just pour yourself a cup of joe and listen to some stories. Cough up some of your hard-earned cash for the camp’s donation box to fund future camp upgrades, like fast travel.
It’s visually impressive.
There are multiple camera settings.
In addition to the standard third-person camera, you can pull the camera back to see more of your horse’s fancy footwork, or activate a first-person camera view ala Grand Theft Auto V.
Activate Cinematic camera angles that toggle between dramatic close-range and panoramic shots as you ride the open plains. Hold down X as you ride in this view, and your horse will keep to the track, allowing you to take in some stunning views on epic rides.
New cinematic techniques are also used for seamless transitions between cutscenes and gameplay.
You can customize the in-game HUD.
Press down on the d-pad to toggle between several different HUD options: off, a minimized version, and the default setting. On the radar, you can easily identify story beats by the yellow icons, while emergent “ambient” events are marked in white.
Hold L1 to access the weapon wheel.
A new version of the original’s weapon wheel is available by pressing and holding L1 – but tap R1 and you’ll now have access to helpful support items, including healing potions, binoculars, and the bandana. Weapons include a knife, revolver, repeater, lever-action rifle, and a classic bow and arrow. You can also earn the ability to dual-wield as you move through the story.
Fire a warning shot to get attention.
Everything you carry is independently rendered.
Expect wide environmental diversity.
Small talk can lead to outsized consequences.
There’s more to interacting with this world than just drawing a weapon. When approaching another person, you can hold L2 to pull up a menu of interactions. A greeting can trigger pleasant exchanges, awkward replies… or could provoke a brawl if your counterpart enjoys his privacy. Engaging with townspeople or fellow travelers adds color and unpredictability to the game. You never know what reaction you’ll get.
Some towns keep secrets.
Not every shopkeeper is running an honest business. Some stores have an illicit business on the side – if you can find it, you can hold up the owner for access to their less-than-lawful enterprise.
You can behave honorably or dishonorably.
Arthur Morgan is whoever you want him to be: a good-natured outlaw, a cold-hearted killer, or something in-between. If you want to show off your rebellious side, get ready for witnesses to report your crimes to the local lawmen.
You can cook and craft by the campfire.
Ready for a hearty meal of Gritty Fish, or a healing potion? Or perhaps something a bit more substantial, like special rounds for your revolver or shells for your shotgun? You can craft a wide array of supplies at campfires using ingredients you find or purchase during your travels.
The wildlife is diverse and unpredictable.
Hunt Legendary Animals for special outfits.
Legendary Animals are unique beasts of each species scattered across the world. Bring items from any downed Legendary Animals to a trapper to create unique pieces of clothing to wear.
Your horse is your partner, but you’ll need to earn its trust.
Horses aren’t treated as expendable vehicles here, but as living, breathing creatures with individual temperaments. They provide more than transport: they can carry animal skins and carcasses, as well as extra weapons and gear. To build trust with a new horse, you’ll want to tread lightly — patting it until it’s comfortable in your presence. Horses can be unpredictable based on the situation, too. A nearby snake might give your ride a case of the jitters!
Caveat emptor.
Town gun shops sell a variety of weapons and gear for the seasoned traveler, from new firepower (revolvers, repeaters, rifles, and shotguns) to performance-boosting accessories like gun belts and bandoliers. The shopping UI is a clever touch: you browse the selection using a vintage shopping catalog.
You can bathe, shave, eat, drink, and more.
Arthur’s clothes will accumulate grit, grime, blood, and mud as you fight your way across the Wild West. When you’re ready to clean him up, just head to the local hotel and pay $0.25 to scrub down in the bathtub. To complete the look, get a haircut and a shave — if you’ve got the cash.
The soundtrack is dynamic.
It’s a cross-studio initiative.
Every studio associated with Rockstar Games is pitching in to help create the massive world of Red Dead Redemption 2, which Rockstar sees as a continuation and extension of the vision first laid out in Grand Theft Auto 3 all those years ago.
Pick up your hat with the Square button.
Twirl your guns for extra style.
Just double tap L1 to draw and holster your guns with a twirl and a flourish.
You can read the entire thing right here, but we already listed down the important descriptions of each entry for your perusal. Also of note, Red Dead 2 content will be 30 days early on PS4 due to Rockstar’s marketing deal with Sony.
Red Dead Redemption 2 shoots out this October 26 on the PS4 and Xbox One.
