Rockstar details Red Dead Redemption 2's weapon choice, customization, and Dead Eye system

Weapons will break down over time, but will also improve in function. Cleaning and maintaining them will be important to your survival.

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As we get closer to launch, Rockstar regularly unleashes new information on the many experiences featured in Red Dead Redemption 2. This time, the spotlight is on the weapons that players will have access to. There are over 50 unique weapons plus custom cosmetic and ammunition types, so lets dig into the tools we'll be totin'.

Different weapons are highlighted in the weaponry breakdown, showing off the weapon classes that will be available:

  • Cattleman Revolver
  • Volcanic Pistol
  • Springfield Rifle
  • Sawed-off Shotgun
  • Litchtfield Repeater

Weapon degradation is a new element added to the Red Dead formula as a means to further immerse players, but another mechanic was explained in this weapon spotlight. Guns will break down as you use them, but they also improve as they're used. Thus, cleaning and maintaining your weapon will be key. There's potential here for an oiled and cleaned older weapon to better serve you over the new toy you grab off an enemy. There are also custom options like metal engravings, woods, and varnishes that give players a way to create a more unique loadout. Split Point, High Velocity, and Explosive rounds were teased, but likely don't represent the full selection of ammo options.

Regarding that loadout, players will have to pay close attention to what they're carrying. Your horse's saddle will collect all weapons, but you'll have to choose what to carry when you step away from your trusty steed. There are holsters for some weapons and upgraded holsters will help protect against degradation or give the option to dual-wield.

The new Dead Eye system mechanics, which were teased in the recent gameplay trailer, were also explained further in this post. Dead Eye will evolve as your character does, allowing new actions like automatically selecting targets in your crosshairs, manually placing shots on multiple targets, shooting at will in slow motion, and pinpointing enemy weak spots. The Dead Eye meter drains as you use it, but can be refilled by consuming provisions or tonics.

Red Dead Redemption 2 launches October 26, 2018, on PS4 and Xbox One. Red Dead Online will go into public beta testing in November and will be free to owners of RDR2. Stay tuned to Shacknews for additional updates.

Charles Singletary Jr keeps the updates flowing as the News Editor, breaking stories while investigating the biggest topics in gaming and technology. He's pretty active on Twitter, so feel free to reach out to him @The_CSJR. Got a hot tip? Email him at Charles.Singletary@Shacknews.com.

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