Which Red Dead Redemption 2 preorder version should you buy?

Published October 1, 2018 3:20 PM, by Kevin Tucker

As the buzz surrounding Rockstar's upcoming open world western Red Dead Redemption 2 reaches astronomical heights, many players are pulling out their wallets and dropping dollars to ensure they'll have the game the moment it releases. Pre-ordering a game like this isn't exactly an easy decision, however, as there are five different ways to jump in on the action. Players can opt simply for the digital or retail versions, or scoop up one of the three distinct special editions of the game. Which should you buy? Check out the details below before making a final decision.

Red Dead Redemption 2 Special, Ultimate, and Collector's Editions

Rockstar has revealed three separate special edition Red Dead Redemption 2 packages that should be perfect for players looking to maximize their old west adventures:

The Red Dead Redemption 2 Special Edition set is slated to run for $79.99, and includes an exclusive world map, the Bank Robbery mission and Gang Hideout, the Dappled Black Thoroughbred horse, the Nuevo Paraiso Gunslinger outfit, the Talisman and Medallion gameplay bonuses, plus several cash bonuses and discounts. It also includes three free weapons from the gunsmith, including the Volcanic Pistol, Pump Action Shotgun, and Lancaster Varmint Rifle.

Players who want all of the in-game goodies they can get their hands on will likely be interested in the Red Dead Redemption 2 Ultimate Edition. Priced at $99.99, this set includes all of the Special Edition bonuses as well as the exclusive Blackrose Bounty Hunter and Copperhead Enforcer Outfits, plus the Black Chestnut Thoroughbred horse and the High Plains Cutting Saddle. The Ultimate Edition also includes rank bonuses up to level 25 and free access to the Survivor Camp Theme.

Finally, the Red Dead Redemption 2 Collector's Box packs together loads of real-world goodies to keep the Red Dead Redemption feeling alive while players are away from the game. This set does not include a copy of Red Dead Redemption 2, but it does include the following items packed together in a stylish red-and-black metal tithing lock box:

• Red Dead Redemption 2 Treasure Map printed on "unrippable" paper featuring the location of several hidden treasure stashes
• RDR2 Playing Cards featuring members of the Van der Linde gang
• Wheeler, Rawson, and Co. Catalog, a real-world replica of the shopping catalog featured in the game
• Collectible Challenge Coin depicting the American Buffalo on one side and the a scenic landscape on the other
• Double sided 100-piece wooden jigsaw puzzle featuring an image of the Saint Denis on one side and the Rockstar Games logo on the other
• Six Shooter Bandana featuring a traditional paisley design
• Pin Set highlighting key weapons from the game, collected in a canvas carrying bag
• 12 Cigarette Cards, with one card from each of the 12 sets found within the game

Even if the bonuses that come with the Red Dead Redemption 2 Special, Ultimate, and Collector's Editions don't strike players' fancies, gamers who simply pre-order the game will still get access to the War Horse and Outlaw Survival Kit for no additional charge.

Red Dead Redemption 2 is slated to release on October 26, 2018 for PlayStation 4 and Xbox One. We have reason to believe that a PC version of Red Dead Redemption 2 will release in the following months as well, but as before, we're still waiting for an official confirmation straight from Rockstar Games.