"Red Dead 2" may be setting the trend in high-quality single-player experiences but Rockstar Games knows that battle royale is one of the hottest game modes in the market. It is unsurprising that the "Red Dead 2" online beta now includes a battle royale game mode which - even with its limitations - is an exciting addition the the game.
According to GameSpot, the "Red Dead 2" battle royale game mode - currently named "Make it Count" in-game - is similar to the format made popular by games such as "PUBG" and "Fortnite." Players are placed in an area with an ever decreasing safe zone until they are all forced to fight each other to the death. While such a format seems derivative for a game that has provided a unique singleplayer experience, the "Red Dead 2" version of battle royale may have a few unique factors going for it while in beta.
The "Red Dead 2" game mode currently does not copy any special mechanics such as "Fortnite's" crafting system or "PUBG's" drop and scavenge mechanic. In its current incarnation, the "Red Dead 2" battle royale game mode is either limited to the use of bows or throwing knives. The limited access to weapons also means that players are forced to eliminate their opponents to ensure that they have enough ammunition to protect themselves as the game moves forward.
In addition, the "Red Dead 2" battle royale game mode does not involve as many players in a round compared to the established battle royale games. Eurogamer mentions that the "Red Dead 2" battle royale game mode is currently limited to a maximum of 32 players in comparison to "PUBG's" 100 player limit.
The publication notes that considering the beta nature of "Red Dead Online," the "Red Dead 2" game mode could easily get a revised player limit after the beta period based on user feedback. In addition, player feedback can also shape how the "Make it Count" game mode will evolve to include other weapons and equipment in the future.
The "Red Dead 2" battle royale mode was not a last minute addition to Rockstar Games' western-action franchise. The existence of battle royale mode was already leaked during "Red Dead Redemption 2's" development earlier this year. With the "Red Dead 2" online beta's goals of making sure that the official launch provides a great multiplayer experience, future updates will more than likely change the "Make it Count" game mode significantly when it officially releases.
