Ride Again, Cowboy: A No-Nonsense Guide to Playing Red Dead Redemption in 2024
So, you’ve got that itch. The Wild West, gunslinging, spaghetti-western kind of itch. Your mind wanders to the Red Dead Redemption universe. Smart choice, partner. But can you play these games in 2024? If yes, which one and how? Read on for details.
Red Dead Redemption (RDR1): Still Kicking in the Wild West
Let’s start with the granddaddy of the Red Dead saga, the original Red Dead Redemption. It still has that dusty charm. But can you play it today?
PlayStation 3: The Old Faithful
Dust off that PlayStation 3! Yes, RDR1 is playable on PS3. Surprisingly, the original Red Dead Online for PS3 is still alive! In 2024, you can find cowpokes online on PS3. It’s like finding a saloon still serving whiskey after years.
PC: Finally Riding onto the Desktop
PC gamers, hold on to your hats! It was disappointing regarding RDR1 on PC for years. Now, Red Dead Redemption and Undead Nightmare finally hit PC on October 29th. Not just a dusty port – it has stunning new detail. Experience John Marston’s journey on your rig.
Nintendo Switch: Red Dead on the Go
Want the Wild West with you? You are in luck! As of September 18, 2023, Red Dead Redemption is playable on Nintendo Switch. Be Arthur Morgan wherever you please.
Red Dead Redemption 2 (RDR2): The Modern Outlaw
Now for the newer gunslinger: Red Dead Redemption 2. It’s bigger, bolder, and arguably prettier. Where can you get your RDR2 fix?
PC: Hitching Post for High-End Rigs
Yes, Red Dead Redemption 2 is playable on PC, and has been for a while. You’ll need a decent machine to run it. Rockstar recommends at least an Intel Core i5-2500K or an AMD FX-6300 CPU. For max settings at 1080p, you’ll need a GPU with at least 5GB of VRAM.
PlayStation 4 and Xbox One: Built for Consoles
Red Dead Redemption 2 was built for PlayStation 4 and Xbox One. If you have these consoles, enjoy a treat. It’s optimized, beautiful, and ready to go.
Emulation Station? Hold Your Horses…
You might hear whispers about playing an “RDR1 Remake” on PC. Let’s clear the air: there’s no official RDR1 remake… yet. Mentions likely refer to emulators or mods. Emulation can be a legal grey area, so tread carefully, partner.
Specs Showdown: RDR1 vs RDR2 on PC
Thinking of going the PC route? Let’s break down what your rig needs to handle each game.
Red Dead Redemption 1 PC Requirements:
- CPU: Intel Core i5-4670 or AMD FX-9590
- GPU: NVIDIA GeForce GTX 960 or AMD Radeon R7 360
- RAM: 8 GB
- Storage: 12 GB
Pretty reasonable for modern machines. Not too shabby for a game originally from PS3.
Red Dead Redemption 2 PC Requirements:
- CPU (Minimum for Low Graphics): Intel Core i5-2500K or AMD FX-6300
- GPU (For Max Settings 1080p): 5GB VRAM (specific model not listed)
- RAM (Minimum/Recommended): 8GB / 12GB
- Storage: 150GB
RDR2 needs considerably higher specs, reflecting its demanding and visually advanced game.
RedM: Multiplayer Mayhem (RDR2 Only)
Craving Red Dead multiplayer action? Check out RedM. This popular third-party multiplayer mod for Red Dead Redemption 2 allows you to join player-run servers. Experience a different kind of Wild West online. But a few things to keep in mind:
- You need a legal copy of RDR2. No free rides here.
- Steam needs to be running. Even if you bought RDR2 elsewhere, keep Steam open for authentication.
PlayStation 5: Backwards… Compatibility Complexities
Thinking your shiny new PlayStation 5 can play everything? Whoa there, partner! PS5 cannot natively play PS3 games. However, there’s hope.
If you’re a subscriber to PlayStation Plus Premium, you can stream a selection of PS3 games via cloud streaming. It’s not as good as using a disc but it’s something. Keep an eye on the PlayStation Plus Premium library for RDR1 or other PS3 titles.
Resolution and Frame Rates: Eye Candy or Smooth Shooting?
Let’s talk visuals. How do these Red Dead games look and perform on different platforms?
Red Dead Redemption 1 Resolution and FPS:
- PS3: 1152x640p resolution at 30fps. Classic but blurry.
- Nintendo Switch:
- Docked: 1920x1080p at 30fps.
- Handheld: 1280x720p at 30fps.
- PS5 via compatibility: Can hit 60FPS!
Game Length: How Long’s This Ride Gonna Be?
How much time will these games consume?
Red Dead Redemption 1 Playtime:
- Main Story: 17-20 hours.
- Main Story + Side Content: 25-30 hours.
- 100% Completion: 40-50 hours or more.
Red Dead Redemption 2 Playtime:
- Main Story: 40-60 hours.
- 100% Completion: 188 hours or more.
You now have everything needed to jump back into the Red Dead Redemption world in 2024. Whether revisiting classics or diving into modern adventures, there’s a Wild West quest waiting. Go on, git along, and have yourself a good time!
