Microsoft recently suffered an unanticipated leak of unredacted FTC documents that were inadvertently published online. Within these documents, keen-eyed gamers and journalists have unearthed plans that indicate a possible native PS5 and Xbox Series X/S release of Rockstar’s opus, Red Dead Redemption 2. With over 55 million units shipped worldwide, this would be a significant move for Microsoft and Rockstar.
Diving into the details, the documents in question, which were revealed through a Reddit post, contain exchanges between top executives from Xbox’s leadership team, including figures like Phil Spencer, Sarah Bond, and Matt Booty. These communications discuss potential avenues to enhance the Xbox and Game Pass release schedule, especially in light of the delay of the much-anticipated Starfield.
One of the major takeaways from these exchanges is the mention of a native current-gen release for Red Dead Redemption 2. Intriguingly, it seems Microsoft was ambitiously eyeing a collaboration with Rockstar and Take-Two Interactive to introduce the game on the Game Pass on the day of its release. However, internal assessments gauged their chances of sealing this deal as “very low.”
This revelation isn’t entirely new to fans closely following the game’s journey. In May 2022, whispers had emerged suggesting that a current-gen port for Red Dead Redemption 2 was in the pipeline. Yet, as the year progressed, counterclaims surfaced, indicating that Rockstar might have paused these plans to channel their resources into developing the much-awaited Grand Theft Auto 6.
It’s crucial to note, though, that Rockstar did breathe new life into the original Red Dead Redemption recently with a re-release, potentially hinting at the possibility of the sequel receiving a similar treatment.
As is the case with any leak, it’s essential to approach this with a degree of skepticism. While the documents provide a compelling look into potential future developments, only official announcements can confirm the veracity of these claims.
Will we be saddling up in a current-gen Red Dead Redemption 2 soon? Time will tell. Until then, fans can only speculate and hope.
