The Tool Desk
Outbyte PC Repair FREERepair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Outbyte Driver Updater FREEScan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Buy Red Dead Redemption 2 through the official Rockstar Store or Steam, then install it from that storefront’s PC client. Both routes require a Rockstar Games account; Steam also requires linking that account to Steam.
Choose an official PC storefront
Rockstar and Steam are the official PC storefront routes established by the current listings. Choose the account and client where you want to manage the game. Compare the live regional price and any offer before buying; prices and promotions can change.
- Rockstar Store: the purchase route uses Rockstar Games Launcher.
- Steam: the game appears in your Steam library, but requires a linked Rockstar Games account.
Rockstar’s downloads page lists its PC download options and Steam among its PC retailer options. The routes described here are the two confirmed by the reviewed official listings; don’t assume other retailers are currently available based on an older retailer list.
Download and install the game
- Purchase the game from the Rockstar Store or Steam using the account you intend to use.
- Install or open the storefront’s client. For a Rockstar Store purchase, use Rockstar Games Launcher; for a Steam purchase, use the Steam client.
- Sign in to the account that owns the game. Create or sign in to a Rockstar Games account when prompted. If you bought the game on Steam, link your Rockstar account to Steam.
- Open the game in your library and choose the client’s install or download option. Select the installation drive and allow the download and installation to finish.
Installation and play require Rockstar account sign-in. Activation, online play, and periodic entitlement verification also require an internet connection, according to Rockstar’s PC requirements. Using Steam does not remove those Rockstar account dependencies.
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1Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minute2Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problems3Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitches#1 Best Overall
Check your PC and storage first
Rockstar’s PC system requirements page, last updated April 30, 2024, lists the following specifications. Steam’s listing corroborates the principal specs.
| Specification | Minimum | Recommended |
|---|---|---|
| Operating system | Windows 10 64-bit | Windows 10 64-bit |
| Processor | Intel Core i5-2500K or AMD FX-6300 | Intel Core i7-4770K or AMD Ryzen 5 1500X |
| Memory | 8 GB RAM | 12 GB RAM |
| Graphics | Nvidia GeForce GTX 770 2 GB or AMD Radeon R9 280 3 GB | Nvidia GeForce GTX 1060 6 GB or AMD Radeon RX 480 4 GB |
| Sound | DirectX-compatible sound card | DirectX-compatible sound card |
| Disk space | 150 GB | 150 GB |
Keep 150 GB free on the drive where you plan to install the game. Rockstar notes that requirements can change with downloadable content and programming changes, so consult its current system requirements page if your PC does not match or you are troubleshooting an installation issue. Rockstar Store materials also list Rockstar Games Launcher and supporting components as installation requirements.
Rank #2
- Included: 1TB SSD Console, Red Dead Redemption 2, 1 x DualShock-4 Wireless Controller
- PS4 Pro Outputs Gameplay to Your 4K TV. Many Games, Like Red Dead Redemption 2, Are Optimized To Look Stunningly Sharp and Detailed When Played On A 4K TV with PS4 Pro
- Turn On Boost Mode To Give PS4 Games Access To The Increased Power Of PS4 Pro. For HD TV Enhanced Games, Players Can Benefit From Increased Image Clarity, Faster Frame Rates, And Other Enhancements
- With An HDR TV, Compatible PS4 Games Display an Unbelievably Vibrant and Lifelike Range Of Colors
- PS4 Pro Enables Game Resolution Output at Native 2160p Resolution, Stream 4K Videos, Movies, and Shows to Your PS4 Pro.
If the download or installation does not start
- Confirm you are signed in to the storefront account that purchased the game and that the game appears in its library.
- For a Steam purchase, check that the Rockstar Games account is linked to Steam and that you can sign in to Rockstar.
- Check that the selected drive has at least the listed 150 GB free.
- Make sure your internet connection is available for activation, online play, and entitlement checks.
- If your computer’s specifications differ from Rockstar’s published requirements, check the current support page for updates before troubleshooting further.
Avoid unofficial installers and “free download” sites. The official PC routes covered here require a storefront purchase.
Quick Recap
Rank #4
Rank #3
- Printed on Highest Quality Poster Paper.
- Poster measures 16" x 24" inches
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
