Rockstar has released a fresh batch of details about Red Dead Redemption 2, this time focusing on the Western adventure’s rich array of weaponry, customization of said weapons, and the revamped slow motion sniping system Dead Eye. As Rockstar puts it, weapons are packed with the same ‘detail, depth and choice’ as the rest of the game.
As with previous features covering specific aspects of Red Dead Redemption 2, Rockstar goes into some detail, going so far as to provide details of a handful of over 50 unique weapons available in-game, all displayed in a classic Frontier style advertisement at home in a snake oil mongerer’s traveling cart. These are the dependable Cattleman Revolver, the powerful Volcanic Pistol, the heavy damage dealing Springfield Rifle, the butchering Sawed-Off Shotgun, and the rapid firing Litchfield Repeater.
Each weapon is defined by unique usages and characteristics with damage, range, fire rate, accuracy and reload speed stats deviating drastically between guns. For example, the Varmint Rifle is the hunter’s gun of choice because ‘it’s far less likely to damage the quality of the skin and meat than a firearm with a bigger shell size’. Their function can also be modified by the type of ammunition used, which can improve accuracy, range, and damage through different power and purchase attributes.
Borrowing from the RPG genre, Red Dead Redemption 2 applies a deterioration mechanic to weapons. Rockstar explains, ‘the more a gun is used, the better it will perform, but it will also start to degrade over time if not looked after, so a trusty sidearm needs to be kept oiled and clean’. To combat degradation, holsters can be upgraded and reinforced to provide much needed protection from the elements.
As for customization, much is centered on cosmetics with visual upgrades playing a big part with a selection of woods, varnishes, inlay metals, colors and engravings available to truly make each weapon your own from the trigger guard to the frame. In addition, customization applies to performance with upgrades that function very much like attachments in other games such as scopes, grips, sights, holsters, and barrels.
Dead Eye has had a lot of love thrown its way since Red Dead Redemption. The main feature of the updated system is progression. As the game moves forward, the Dead Eye system gains in sophistication with features such as auto-targeting of enemies, multiple shots on chosen targets, and the ability to target specific weak spots like the heart and brain for maximum critical and fatal damage.
Red Dead Redemption 2 is now less than two weeks away with release set for October 26th.
