Red Dead Redemption 2 Online launches in beta on Nov. 27

Red Dead Redemption 2’s online multiplayer mode, Red Dead Online, will go live on Tuesday, Nov. 27, Rockstar Games announced today.

Rockstar will launch Red Dead Online in beta form on Nov. 27 at 8:30 a.m. ET, and it will initially be accessible only for owners of the Ultimate Edition of Red Dead Redemption 2. The following day, the beta will open up to those who played Red Dead Redemption 2 on its first day of release — Oct. 26. On Thursday, Nov. 29, those who played the game in its first three days of release (Oct. 26-29) will get access. Then, on Friday, Nov. 30, online multiplayer will open up for all Red Dead Redemption 2 players.

Red Dead Online has been described by Rockstar as “an evolution of the classic multiplayer experience in the original Red Dead Redemption, blending narrative with competitive and cooperative gameplay in fun new ways.” Players will be able to explore the online experience solo or with friends, and Rockstar promises “constant updates and adjustments to grow and evolve this experience for all players.”

In an announcement today, Rockstar said the world of Red Dead Online will be transformed “into a new, living online world ready to be shared by multiple players.” Players will create and customize their online characters and “tailor your abilities to suit your play style.” Players will be able to join a posse — up to eight players — and go out hunting and fishing, battle rival gangs, and fight other players in “spontaneous skirmishes and pitched set-piece battles.”

Red Dead Redemption 2’s online multiplayer mode will be free and available on PlayStation 4 and Xbox One. The PS4 version of the game will have select exclusive content for Red Dead Online.