Why You Should Start Over in 2026

It’s been nearly 16 years since Rockstar Games first released Red Dead Redemption, the studio’s ambitious open world western. Red Dead Redemption released to widespread critical acclaim, standing tall as one of the highest-rated games of 2010 and winning Game of the Year at the Spike VGAs, which was the precursor to the modern-day Game Awards. Red Dead Redemption is one of the most beloved video games of all time, and so while it’s always a good time to replay it, now is truly the perfect opportunity to give it another go.

Originally, Red Dead Redemption was only available on PS3 and Xbox 360. 13 years later, Red Dead Redemption made its way to the Switch and PS4 with various enhancements to help it better meet modern standards. A year after that, Red Dead Redemption was finally ported to PC, giving gamers on that platform the chance to experience the entire RDR story. Most recently, Red Dead Redemption was ported to iOS and Android devices alongside the PS5, Switch 2, and Xbox Series X/S.

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Red Dead Redemption 2 Could Find New Life With the Right Move

Red Dead Redemption 2 is almost a seven-year-old game, but it could find new life if Rockstar makes one highly-requested move.

The Original Red Dead Redemption Has Gotten a Big Upgrade on Current Consoles

Playing Red Dead Redemption on PS5, Switch 2, or Xbox Series X/S is a revelation. The latest version of the game includes improved graphics, 60 frames per second, 4K resolution, and other small tweaks that add up to make it the best way to experience Red Dead Redemption. If you are like me and haven’t played Red Dead Redemption since the PS3/360 days, the new version of the game will blow your mind. It runs like butter and is an absolute joy to play, even 16 years after the original game launched.

Being able to experience a classic like Red Dead Redemption with these kinds of upgrades is a real treat, and I highly recommend it. But being able to play Red Dead Redemption at its best isn’t the only reason that now is the perfect time to replay the game. Timing is everything, and there are a couple of other big reasons to start a fresh Red Dead Redemption save in the big 26.

Red Dead Redemption 2 Upgrade Could Be Right Around the Corner

For years now, rumors have persisted that Rockstar Games is looking to bring Red Dead Redemption 2 to PS5 and Xbox Series X/S with native ports that better take advantage of those console’s capabilities. Nothing official has been announced, but reliable leakers have insisted that not only is Red Dead Redemption 2 coming to PS5 and Xbox Series X, but it’s also making its way to the Nintendo Switch 2 as well.

Assuming the rumors are true and Red Dead Redemption 2‘s big upgrade is coming this year, one has to imagine it will be out well before GTA 6 releases in the fall. This should be perfect timing for gamers to replay Red Dead Redemption on a modern platform, enjoy the upgrades, and revisit the story of John Marston, in preparation for diving back into the even bigger sequel.

GTA 6 Isn’t Coming Until the End of the Year

Grand Theft Auto 6‘s release date is November 19, 2026. It is entirely possible that GTA 6 will get delayed again, and so fans should brace themselves for that possibility. But even if GTA 6 meets its planned November 19 release date, that’s still 10 months away from the time of this writing. What better way to pass the time than by replaying Rockstar’s classic games, and the OG Red Dead Redemption should be at the top of that list, especially with the upgraded ports available.

Of course, the most compelling reason to replay Red Dead Redemption in 2026 is the simple fact that it’s an incredible game. Red Dead Redemption tells one of gaming’s most memorable stories and features a compelling open world that you can easily get lost in. The game is packed full of exciting missions and jaw-dropping moments, and the pacing is arguably much better than RDR2. Red Dead Redemption is a classic for a reason and if you haven’t played it yet or haven’t played it for a long time, now is the perfect time to start from the beginning.

Released

May 18, 2010

ESRB

M For Mature 17+ Due To Blood, Intense Violence, Nudity, Strong Language, Strong Sexual Content, Use of Drugs

Developer(s)

Rockstar San Diego

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