Following a recent teaser from Rockstar that a major update was on the way, Rockstar has now launched an all-new Frontier Pursuit in Red Dead Online; The Naturalist. Featuring new NPC characters, new gameplay mechanics, and new legendary animals, the update is one of the largest to come to the game in some time.
The New Red Dead Online: The Naturalist Update
“Track, hunt and study the wonders of the animal kingdom in Red Dead Online’s latest Frontier Pursuit, The Naturalist,” writes Rockstar; “Explore diverse locales, encounter majestic new Legendary Animals, and forge your own path as you choose whether to use these findings to learn new skills or bolster your resources and material gains.”
The update introduces two new characters to the game; Harriet Davenport and Gus Macmillan. The former is a conservationist who will task players with tracking and sedating animals for research samples. The latter, meanwhile, will reward players for their hunting trophies with access to new Legendary Animal Coats and other gear. However, Davenport and Macmillan’s methods are at odds, and working for one character can earn you the ire of the other. Harriet and Gus can be encountered in the town of Strawberry at the Welcome Centre.
The new Red Dead Online update also introduces a new Animal Field Guide; a way for players to document the various animals encountered in the game. This Guide serves as the main method of tracking progress with the Naturalist role. As you advance this role, you’ll gain access to a new horse breed, special clothing and gear, and new Tonics. Players will also learn new Mercy Kill skills and gain the ability to set up Wilderness Camps. In addition, as you become a better Naturalist, you’ll start to encounter Legendary Animals. In addition to the new Improved Bow and Elephant Rifle weapons, players can also now acquire an in-game Camera. This item is available from the Wheeler, Rawson and Co. Catalogue.