As promised, the first video in a series of gameplay trailers for Rockstar’s long-awaited Red Dead Redemption 2 is finally here. It’s been seven years since the release of Red Dead Redemption, and Rockstar has since developed an open-world experience that is more lively and interactive than ever. Previous story trailers have informed us that this is a prequel to the first game, following Dutch van der Linde’s gang of outlaws. You play as Arthur Morgan, a trusted member of Dutch’s gang. Today’s six minute-long gameplay trailer introduces a few key mechanics, mostly relationship-building and setting up camps for the gang.
Here it is, in all its glory:
Taking place in 1899, the game captures the close of the Old West and the onset of modern civilization. Explore open landscapes of deserts, mountains, swamps and forests, as well as small settlements and larger cities. The video showcases a system of interactions you may have with the people populating these different landscapes. Arthur can call out to passer-bys, threaten witnesses, and confront and make enemies. There are a variety of relationships you can have with the members of Dutch’s gang, as well as random townspeople. There’s a brief look at new combat mechanics and fistfights, as well as confirmation of the return of the dead eye shooting mechanic from the first game.
As a group of outlaws, the gang stays on the move and will have to set up camps across the map. At camp settlements, you can build friendships with fellow gang members, play games (poker is back as a minigame!), and gather supplies. Gathering supplies and hunting to provide for the camp establishes a positive relationship with the group. You may also build bonds with your horses, where a stronger bonds allows your horse to remain calm in tense combat situations.
There’s a lot to take in with this lengthy gameplay trailer. Upon rewatches, you will certainly catch new details about the game that aren’t even explored in the narration. This is the first in a series of gameplay videos you can expect between now and the game’s release. Part 2 will share more on missions, enemy gangs, and robberies. Red Dead Redemption 2 releases October 26, 2018 for PlayStation 4 and Xbox One.
