With Red Dead Redemption arriving on modern platforms like PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5 (via backwards compatibility), and Nintendo Switch, Rockstar has reintroduced one of the most celebrated open-world experiences to a fresh audience. Whether you’re a returning outlaw or a newcomer to the Wild West, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about the new port—platform differences, pricing, features, and settings—to help you decide how and where to play.

---

Platform Availability and Pricing Breakdown

As of 2023, Red Dead Redemption is officially available on:

• PlayStation 4 & 5 (via backwards compatibility)
• Nintendo Switch
• Xbox One, Series X/S (via backwards compatibility and digital versions)
• Legacy consoles: Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3

The only major platform still missing out is PC, and as of now, there’s no indication of a release coming soon. The new port costs:

• £40 / $50 on PS Store and Nintendo eShop
• As low as £15–25 on Xbox, often discounted
• Physical copies launch October 13th, 2023 (PS4 & Switch)

Expect physical versions to offer the best value over time due to discounts and second-hand sales. October–November will likely see the first price drops.

---

What’s Included – And What’s Missing

The current port includes:

• The full base game
• Undead Nightmare DLC
• All previously released content packs

However, a significant change is the lack of online multiplayer on PS4, PS5, and Switch. Only the Xbox versions and original PS3/Xbox 360 releases retain full online functionality.

This change means you’re paying more for less content on newer platforms—a point of contention for fans hoping for a more robust remaster. That said, the single-player experience remains untouched and intact.

---

Performance and Graphics

The port is not a next-gen upgrade, but it does feature some improvements:

• PS4 Pro/PS5: 4K resolution, capped at 30fps
• Nintendo Switch: 720p handheld / 1080p docked, stable 30fps
• Xbox Series X: 4K and potential for 60fps via FPS Boost

No 60fps option exists for PlayStation or Switch players, and there’s no use of PS5-specific features like haptics or fast loading.

---

Visual Settings: FSAA vs FSR2

A subtle but important improvement comes from new anti-aliasing options:

• AMD FSR2 (FidelityFX Super Resolution 2): Sharper image quality
• FXAA (Fast Approximate Anti-Aliasing): Older, fuzzier visuals

FSR2 is enabled by default on PlayStation 4/5 and Nintendo Switch—double-check in settings to ensure it’s on for the best image fidelity. Xbox versions do not offer FSR2 and use FXAA instead.

---

Gameplay and Controls: Modern Feel, Classic Flow

The controls are identical to:

• Red Dead Redemption 2
• GTA 5
• GTA Trilogy (Definitive Edition)

This means modern Rockstar players will feel immediately at home. Swapping vehicles for horses is the only real mechanical shift. The map layout is faithful to the 2010 version and includes the iconic regions:

• New Austin: Also accessible in RDR2
• Mexico: Not available in RDR2, exclusive to RDR1

That alone makes this version worthwhile for RDR2 veterans seeking to see the full world.

---

Storage and Install Sizes

• PlayStation: ~10GB
• Switch: ~11GB

For such a content-rich game, the file size is impressively modest.

---

Should You Buy It?

Here’s the honest take:

• If you’ve never played Red Dead Redemption, this is a convenient and accessible way to experience a masterpiece.
• If you’re on Xbox, you’re getting the best deal: more content, 4K support, and even a path to 60fps.
• If you’re on PlayStation or Switch, you’re getting a smoother, modernized version—but at a steep price and with no multiplayer.

A proper remaster would’ve been ideal. But if you’re set on reliving John Marston’s tale—or seeing what comes after Red Dead Redemption 2—this version serves its purpose. Just wait for a price drop if you’re unsure.

---

Final Thoughts

Red Dead Redemption remains one of Rockstar’s greatest achievements. Despite the port’s shortcomings—no 60fps, no multiplayer, and no major graphical overhauls—the game itself is still a triumph in storytelling and world-building. If you’re picking it up on console, just be sure to activate AMD FSR2, keep expectations in check, and enjoy one of gaming’s most unforgettable journeys.

Stay tuned for a full settings optimization guide coming soon.