Red Dead Redemption 2 free expansion is a new story set within an alternate timeline

Rockstar Games is far too busy to concern itself with anything other than Grand Theft Auto VI at the moment, ahead of the game’s November 19 launch on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X/S.

As disappointing as it is, it’s probably for this reason that we’re not going to get that long-awaited new-generation upgrade for Red Dead Redemption 2 any time soon, if ever.

Let’s be honest, Rockstar Games has had plenty of opportunities to release such an upgrade amid GTA VI’s many delays.

Fortunately, there are plenty of brilliant fan creations that should tide us over until a new Red Dead title enters development.

There’s a Mexico-themed expansion on the way - and another inspired by Mafia already available to download and enjoy.

That’s alongside a new project that’s caught our eye, ‘Beecher’s Hope Reunion’.

This new mod fan project transports Red Dead Redemption 2 into another timeline, featuring a new set of events for players to experience.

Grab a companion in this new post-game Red Dead Redemption 2 content expansion

‘Beecher’s Hope Reunion’ has been created by NexusMods user bhrdev and, as with most NexusMods creations, the project is completely free to download provided you have a working copy of Red Dead Redemption 2 on PC.

The mod is set after the mission ‘American Venom’ and, as mentioned, follows an alternative version of events for John and co.

bhrdev via NexusMods

“Beecher's Hope Reunion is a mod that explores an alternate universe in 1907,” begins the synopsis.

“After ‘American Venom’ is completed, at Beecher's Hope you will find Sadie, Charles, Arthur, Lenny, Sean, and Mary Linton make casual appearances and stay at the ranch.

“They work, sleep, drink, hang out, care for their horses, and more! If you are looking for more things to do post-story completion, this is the mod for you.”

It’s a nice little addition to the game for those who just aren't ready to leave their playthrough behind, which, admittedly, is all of us after reaching the end of this all-time great story.

All included characters will have their own routine at the ranch, caring for horses, completing chores, reading books, or even setting out on mini adventures.

John can chat to each of them, with the conversation taking things like their mood and the weather into account.

The mod’s creator even notes that waking up an NPC while they’re asleep at night will actually anger them, so there’s a great sense of realism here.

This system is handily known as the “anger system”, with all characters remembering how you might have antagonised them.

READ MORE: GTA 6 map size confirmed, Red Dead Redemption 2 blown out of the water

What’s more, all included characters except for Mary Linton can be recruited as a companion if you want a new pal to explore the map with as you mop up all of Red Dead Redemption 2’s side content.

“It utilises the dormant code left behind by Rockstar for the scrapped companion system mechanic,” the mod creator notes.

“This means when you are out in the world, your companion will drink at Saloons, read newspapers, take a smoke break in the streets, or settle down at a campfire if you create a temporary camp. Your companion is also very useful in combat.”

Already, the mod has generated very positive feedback from Red Dead Redemption 2’s community.

“What a great mod you have created, well done!” said one happy player, while another added, “Great mod.”

Struggling to leave the Wild West behind? This mod has your name written all over it.