Red Dead Redemption 2: Ultimate Edition vs. Standard: Which to Buy?
Saddle up, partner, because we’re about to ride into the wild west of Red Dead Redemption 2! This epic open-world adventure has captivated millions, but choosing the right version can be a tougher decision than facing a grizzled outlaw.
Are you wondering if the extra bells and whistles of the Red Dead Redemption 2 Ultimate Edition are worth the price of entry? Or will the Standard Edition provide a satisfying experience without breaking the bank? This comparison will help you make the best choice.
We’ll delve deep into the differences, from exclusive content to gameplay advantages, ensuring you’re fully informed before you make your purchase. Get ready to explore the sprawling landscapes, encounter unforgettable characters, and decide which edition best suits your needs in the world of Red Dead Redemption 2.
Specs at a Glance:
| Feature | Ultimate | Standard |
|---|---|---|
| Base Game | Yes | Yes |
| Story Mode Content | Yes | Yes |
| Online Mode Access | Yes | Yes |
| Bonus Story Mode Missions | Yes | No |
| Unique Weapons | Yes | No |
| Outfits and Cosmetic Items | Yes | No |
| Rank Bonuses in Online | Yes | No |
| Free Access to Survival Camp Theme | Yes | No |
| Bank Robbery Mission in Story Mode | Yes | No |
| Additional Story Mode Horses | Yes | No |
| Online Character Bonuses | Yes | No |
| Online Gameplay Boosts | Yes | No |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Base Game
- Red Dead Redemption 2 Ultimate Edition: Includes the complete Red Dead Redemption 2 experience, the same core game as the standard edition. This covers the vast open world, compelling story, and single-player campaign. No inherent advantages or disadvantages here.
- Standard: Includes the complete Red Dead Redemption 2 experience, the same core game as the ultimate edition. You get the full story and gameplay. No inherent advantages or disadvantages here.
- Winner: Tie
Story Mode Content
- Red Dead Redemption 2 Ultimate Edition: Includes additional Story Mode content such as a Bank Robbery Mission and Gang Hideout in Story Mode. These additions provide extra gameplay and opportunities to experience the world.
- Standard: Does not include the additional Story Mode content. Players only receive the base game story.
- Winner: Ultimate Edition
Online Content – Bonus Outfits
- Red Dead Redemption 2 Ultimate Edition: Includes bonus online outfits for your online character, offering unique cosmetic options to stand out in Red Dead Online. These provide customization options.
- Standard: Does not include bonus online outfits, limiting cosmetic options.
- Winner: Ultimate Edition
Online Content – Rank Bonuses
- Red Dead Redemption 2 Ultimate Edition: Offers rank bonuses for your online character, allowing for faster progression and access to early game perks.
- Standard: Does not offer rank bonuses, slowing down initial character progression.
- Winner: Ultimate Edition
Online Content – Additional Weapons
- Red Dead Redemption 2 Ultimate Edition: Includes free access to additional weapons in Red Dead Online, giving players a wider arsenal early in the game. This can be a gameplay advantage.
- Standard: Does not include extra weapons, requiring players to purchase them through in-game currency.
- Winner: Ultimate Edition
Online Content – Horse Bonuses
- Red Dead Redemption 2 Ultimate Edition: Includes a bonus thoroughbred horse, offering a speed advantage in Red Dead Online. This gives an early gameplay edge.
- Standard: Does not include a bonus horse at the start of the online experience.
- Winner: Ultimate Edition
Online Content – Camp Theme
- Red Dead Redemption 2 Ultimate Edition: Provides free access to the Survivor Camp Theme, offering cosmetic customization for your camp in Red Dead Online.
- Standard: Does not include the Survivor Camp Theme.
- Winner: Ultimate Edition
Price
- Red Dead Redemption 2 Ultimate Edition: Generally more expensive than the standard edition, reflecting the added content and bonuses. The price difference should be considered.
- Standard: More affordable than the Ultimate Edition, making it a good choice for those prioritizing cost over bonus content.
- Winner: Standard
Winner by Category:
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Overall Value | Standard |
| Content | Ultimate |
| Online Bonuses | Ultimate |
| Single-Player Experience | Tie |
What They Have in Common:
- Base Game: Both editions include the core Red Dead Redemption 2 game, offering the same sprawling open world, compelling story, and engaging gameplay.
- Story Mode: Both versions provide access to the full single-player campaign, allowing players to experience the epic narrative and interact with the game’s rich characters.
- Online Mode: Both editions grant access to Red Dead Online, allowing you to experience the online multiplayer component of the game.
- Graphics and Performance: Both versions offer the same graphical fidelity and performance capabilities, dependent on your hardware.
- Core Gameplay Mechanics: Both versions share the same core gameplay mechanics, including shooting, riding, hunting, and interacting with the world.
Red Dead Redemption 2 Ultimate Edition Vs Standard Buying Guide
Content Differences
The core gameplay experience in Red Dead Redemption 2 remains consistent across both editions. However, the Ultimate Edition offers exclusive content that enhances the single-player and online experiences. This includes additional story missions, unique weapons, and outfits for Arthur Morgan. The Ultimate Edition also provides access to a faster-leveling system in Red Dead Online, giving players a head start in building their characters and enjoying the online world. Consider your preference for in-game advantages when deciding which edition suits you best.
Online Benefits
For players focused on Red Dead Online, the Ultimate Edition provides significant advantages. It includes bonus outfits, horses, and a faster progression in the online mode. Players can enjoy these exclusive items and a head start in building their character. The standard edition, while offering access to Red Dead Online, does not include these initial boosts. The Ultimate Edition provides a more enriched and accelerated online experience, making it appealing for those eager to dive into the multiplayer aspect.
Single-Player Perks
The single-player campaign in the Ultimate Edition includes exclusive content to enhance your gameplay. Players will receive access to additional story missions, which provide more depth and intrigue to the world. You’ll also gain access to unique weapons and outfits for Arthur Morgan. These additions can give you a different experience than the standard edition. The standard edition, while offering the core story, lacks these additional perks. This makes the Ultimate Edition a more appealing purchase for those looking for extra content in the single-player campaign.
Value for Money
The Ultimate Edition is priced higher than the standard edition, reflecting the added content and benefits. Assess your budget and how important the exclusive content is to you. If the additional weapons, outfits, and online boosts appeal to you, the Ultimate Edition offers great value. However, if you are happy with the base game experience and do not require extra content, the standard edition may be more suitable. Consider the price difference and the value you place on the extra features before making a decision.
Platform Considerations
Both editions are available on various platforms, including PlayStation 4, Xbox One, and PC. Ensure the edition you purchase is compatible with your chosen platform. Digital downloads offer immediate access to the game, while physical copies require a disc drive. Consider your platform and preferred method of purchase. The availability of each edition may vary slightly depending on the platform, so verify the details before making your final decision. Consider the platform’s specific features and any platform-specific bonuses.
Long-Term Playability
Both editions provide a long-term gaming experience. The single-player campaign offers hours of gameplay, and Red Dead Online provides ongoing content updates. The Ultimate Edition gives you a head start and additional content, potentially enhancing your overall experience. The standard edition still offers a rich and engaging experience. Consider your long-term gaming habits. The extra benefits in the Ultimate Edition may enhance the longevity of your experience, but the standard edition still offers a great amount of content to enjoy.
Who Should Buy What?
Buy red dead redemption 2 ultimate edition If…
- You want the most complete Red Dead Redemption 2 experience with exclusive content.
- You value early access to in-game benefits and bonuses in Red Dead Online.
- You want to get a head start in Red Dead Online with additional resources.
- You want to show your support for the developers and get extra content.
Buy standard If…
- You are on a budget and want to save money.
- You are primarily interested in the single-player story mode and are less concerned with online extras.
- You want to experience the core Red Dead Redemption 2 game without the additional content.
- You’re unsure if the extra content justifies the higher price.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main difference between the Ultimate Edition and the Standard Edition?
The Ultimate Edition offers exclusive content not found in the Standard Edition. This includes bonus story missions, unique weapons, outfits for the single-player campaign, and a head start in Red Dead Online. The Standard Edition provides the base game and access to Red Dead Online, but without these additional features. The primary difference lies in the quantity and quality of content offered.
Does the Ultimate Edition include the base game?
Yes, the Ultimate Edition includes the full base game of Red Dead Redemption 2, along with all the extra content. It is a complete package that encompasses the entire single-player campaign and access to Red Dead Online. Purchasing the Ultimate Edition means you receive the full experience, plus additional bonuses. There is no need to purchase the base game separately.
Are the extra weapons and outfits in the Ultimate Edition game-breaking?
The extra weapons and outfits are designed to enhance the experience without significantly disrupting the game’s balance. They provide a stylistic advantage and some minor gameplay benefits. They aren’t game-breaking but can give you a slight edge early in the game. They provide a more immersive experience without making the game too easy or unfair.
Can I upgrade from the Standard Edition to the Ultimate Edition?
While there isn’t a direct upgrade path to the Ultimate Edition, some platforms may allow you to purchase the extra content separately. However, it is generally more cost-effective to buy the Ultimate Edition upfront if you want all the included content. Check your platform’s store for any available options to add the Ultimate Edition content separately.
Is the Ultimate Edition worth the extra cost?
The worth depends on your priorities and budget. If you value the additional story missions, exclusive items, and online boosts, then the Ultimate Edition is likely worth the extra cost. If you’re primarily interested in the base game, the Standard Edition is a good option. Consider the value you place on these extra features.
Does the Ultimate Edition offer any offline benefits?
Yes, the Ultimate Edition provides offline benefits in the single-player campaign. You will have access to exclusive weapons, outfits, and additional story content to enhance your gameplay experience. These additions add more depth and replayability to the single-player campaign even when playing offline. These items provide a more immersive experience regardless of your online status.
What happens if I already own the Standard Edition and then buy the Ultimate Edition?
If you purchase the Ultimate Edition after owning the Standard Edition, the additional content should be added to your game. There may be some overlap in the content, but the Ultimate Edition will give you access to the exclusive items and missions. You might need to install the Ultimate Edition’s content separately. Any progress in the base game will remain intact.
Final Verdict
The Ultimate Edition offers a more complete experience with exclusive content for both single-player and Red Dead Online. While the Standard Edition provides the core game, the Ultimate Edition enhances it with additional missions, weapons, outfits, and online benefits. For those seeking the fullest experience, the Ultimate Edition is the superior choice.
Winner: Red Dead Redemption 2 Ultimate Edition