Red Dead Redemption 2 free update adds new missions, events, and more

Ask anyone who's played Red Dead Redemption 2 and they'll likely tell you the same thing: Rockstar Games abandoned the game far too soon.

It's a tragedy, really. In Red Dead Redemption 2 we have possibly the greatest open world ever made in a video game. Vast yet dense, packed with things to see and do and stunningly detailed. The way the steam rises from the ground after a heavy rainfall, the horse testicles that sway majestically in the breeze... all top work.

Take a look at some of the best Red Dead Redemption 2 wins and fails below!

Red Dead Redemption 2's Online mode also doesn't get anywhere near as much love as it should, especially given how much attention is heaped upon GTA Online.

The good news is that Red Dead Online just got a rare free update which introduces a few new things to do. Perfect for anyone looking to scratch the Western itch ahead of the inevitable Red Dead Redemption remaster announcement.

Throughout August Rockstar is offering double rewards for select missions and events in Red Dead Online. "Accept Free Roam Event invites to put your skills to the test against other players in these competitive challenges over the next five weeks and complete a Free Roam event each week to receive an assortment of rewards," a press release explains.

These rewards are:

• August 1 – 7: Reward for 5,000 Character XP
• August 8 – 14: Reward for a Treasure Map leading to a haul near O’Creagh’s Run
• August 15 – 21: 20X Shotgun Explosive Slug Ammo
• August 22 – 28: 3X Potent Health Cures
• August 29 – September 4: Offer for 50% off a Stable Slot

Rockstar also teases "new cases requiring steady aim and an outlaw’s steady aim on the horizon," which suggests something new is on the way.

You'll also be able earn double rewards from open world encounters with Strangers. These interactions with "new and familiar character" could result in some interesting new adventures.

If you're looking for something a little meatier, you can help the widowed dame Jessica LeClerk and her right-hand man Horley exact frontier justice in A Land of Opportunities. You'll get double the gold and XP on these story-based missions for two to four players, and can expect different outcomes based on your honour level.

For more on all the new rewards - including a couple of new outfits - you can head on over to Rockstar's blog.