Red Dead Redemption 2 Free DLC Officially Announced

1 week ago 20

Arthur Morgan holding a pistol and a rifle in Red Dead Redemption 2

Published May 13, 2026, 5:22 AM EDT

Known as 'Cyberpunk 2077's' biggest fan, Angharad is a Welsh games writer who thrives in anything related to digital storytelling. If a video game explores the intricacies and horrors of womanhood, she is there.

Thanks to previous work at GAMINGbible, GameByte, The Loadout, Game Luster, Angharad has built a strong understanding of both the digital world and what fans want from it and is eager to share her thoughts and expertise with readers.

Since its release back in 2018, Red Dead Redemption 2 has cemented itself as one of the greatest video games of all time, and for good reason. Offering fans a heartfelt narrative, morally ambiguous characters, a stunning setting, and exploration of 19th century America, Rockstar had a hit on its hands almost instantly, so it is no surprise that fans are still flocking to the Red Dead Redemption sequel (or technically prequel) after all these years.

Not only that, but alongside a stunning single-player campaign, Red Dead Redemption 2 also launched alongside Red Dead Online which, much like its Grand Theft Auto Online launch, allowed players to dive into the Wild West setting with friends and their very own cowboy to boot. Although Red Dead Online has not received the same attention as GTA Online over the years, it still welcomes frequent content and cosmetic updates and this month is no exception.

This month's theme is "Naturalist" for Red Dead Online and players will be able to get their hands on a free download from 12 May onward. As with every Red Dead Online event, simply logging in will bag you extra XP and $RDO, but this month's theme will also appeal to those who enjoy both the horse riding and racing elements of the Red Dead Redemption franchise as a collection of races will take place throughout the month, seeing you bag some epic prizes if you manage to come out on top.

"Harriet Davenport needs all the help she can get sampling and classifying the rare wild animals of the five states," the Rockstar website explains. "Meanwhile, Gus Macmillan wants those animals’ heads (and hides) on his wall."

Whilst the first events of the month have been and gone, the second week is now in full swing, and from 12 May to 18 May, players will be able to take part in the Open Target Races and Overrun Series, with the winners potentially walking, or galloping, away with 4X RDO$, Gold, and XP.

Red Dead Redemption Online trailer screenshot

However, if you are more interested in the fashion of the Wild West, you are in luck, as Red Dead Online's Naturalist event could see you get your hands on limited-time clothing such as Benbow Jacket, Carver Pants, Morning Tail Coat, Manteca Hat, and Salter Shoes, which are all making a return for a short time. Additionally, by completing three Daily Challenges, you will be eligible for 50% off an Established or Distinguished Naturalist Role Item. The rest of May will be dedicated to Race Series 2, which takes place 19–25 May, whilst the event wraps up following the Target Races and Capture Mode Series, which run from 26 May to 1 June.

So, if you want an excuse to head to the Wild West in Red Dead Online once more, the Naturalist event is the perfect excuse to do so, especially as you will bag yourself some epic prizes in the meantime.