Red Dead Redemption 2: How To Start Playing The Game A Few Hours Early

There are multiple advantages to buying a game like Red Dead Redemption 2 digitally rather than physically. Along with not worrying about a damaged game disc, you can also start playing at the moment of release. However, certain physical retailers now have a strong incentive for fans who would rather go the physical route.

Certain retailers will start selling physical copies of Red Dead Redemption 2 early.

Red Dead Redemption 2 Early Physical Release

As GameSpot reports, certain retailers will start selling Red Dead Redemption 2 a little earlier than planned. The digital version of the game will launch precisely at midnight on the night of October 25. However, Best Buy and GameStop will start selling physical copies at 9 p.m. local time that same night. This means physical buyers can load and play Red Dead Redemption 2 a full three hours ahead of digital customers.

Granted, fans can expect long lines for this early release given how popular Red Dead Redemption 2 already is. Physical buyers also might want to call their local retailer and see if they’re participating in the early launch. Best Buy says all stores are participating in the early launch, but better safe than sorry. Faster write speeds from disc to console should ensure speedy installs as well.

Given how large a file size Red Dead Redemption 2 has, any sort of early loading opportunity will be helpful. If you’re still on the fence, you can also peruse the game’s various special edition and pre-order bonuses.

Much like its 2010 predecessor, Red Dead Redemption 2 transports players to the American Wild West. The game acts as a prequel to the original Red Dead Redemption, casting players as an outlaw named Arthur Morgan. In November, Rockstar will release an open beta for the game’s online multiplayer component, Red Dead Online. The online component will function in a similar manner as GTA V’s Grand Theft Auto Online. The delayed release will ensure a stable and smooth launch for the online component.