'Red Dead Redemption' comes to PS4 and Switch, but is it worth it?

Image: Rockstar Games

Rockstar has just announced that Red Dead Redemption, the critically acclaimed Western game from 2010, is coming to Sony PlayStation 4 and Nintendo Switch on August 17. This might sound like good news for fans who have been waiting for a chance to play this classic on modern consoles, but some major drawbacks make these ports disappointing and overpriced.

First of all, these are not remakes or remasters, but simple ports with minimal changes. The graphics, framerate, and gameplay are the same as 13 years ago. The only new feature is the addition of some new languages. This means that PS4 and PS5 owners will not get to enjoy the game in 60fps or with enhanced visuals, and Switch owners will have to settle for a lower resolution and performance.

Secondly, these ports are missing one of the most important aspects of Red Dead Redemption: multiplayer. Both Switch and PS4 versions will not include any online modes or DLC packs that were released for the original game. This means that you will not be able to play with your friends, compete in online challenges, or experience the extra content that added more variety and fun to the game.

Thirdly, these ports are expensive for what they offer. Rockstar is charging USD 50 for each version, including the base game and the Undead Nightmare expansion. This might seem reasonable at first glance, but when you compare it to other options, it becomes clear that it is not a good deal.

For example, you can play Red Dead Redemption on Xbox Series X/S via backward compatibility for only USD 30. This version is cheaper, supports all the DLC packs and multiplayer modes, and runs better than the PS4 and Switch versions. Plus, if you already own the game digitally on Xbox 360, you can play it on Xbox Series X/S without paying anything extra.

But if you are on the PlayStation and Switch platforms and have been waiting for this game, you might be willing to swallow these downsides. Otherwise, the Xbox version might be a better deal.

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