Red Dead Redemption Receives 4K HDR Upgrade for PS5, Xbox Series X and Switch 2 – Full Review

Introduction

Rockstar Games’ Red Dead Redemption finally arrives on the latest generation of consoles with a dedicated upgrade that runs natively on PS5, Xbox Series X|S, and the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2. After a series of re‑releases—first on PS4 via backward compatibility, then on PC in 2024—this 2025 version promises true 4K resolution, 60 fps performance, HDR support, and a host of visual refinements. Below we break down what the upgrade delivers, how it performs on each platform, and whether the $50 price tag is justified for a title that first launched a decade ago.

What the Upgrade Offers

• Native 4K resolution at up to 60 fps
• HDR support with enhanced lighting and color depth
• Updated level‑of‑detail (LOD) and draw distances
• Higher‑resolution UI elements (weapon wheel, menus, etc.)
• Minor lighting tweaks that affect cut‑scenes and sunsets
• Compatibility with existing saves from PS4 and original Switch versions
• Free update for owners of the 2023 PS4 port and the Switch 1 edition
• Access to Normal, Hardcore, and the standalone Undead Nightmare DLC

Technical Enhancements

The upgrade is not a simple up‑scale; it rebuilds the game engine to take advantage of modern hardware. While the core gameplay and story remain untouched, the following technical improvements are noticeable:

• Improved LOD and draw distance reduce the visual pop‑in of distant objects, though some instances (e.g., buildings appearing when descending into towns) still occur.
• HDR lighting brings out richer sunsets and more vivid cut‑scene palettes, giving the Wild West a more cinematic feel.
• Higher‑resolution UI ensures that on‑screen menus and the weapon wheel remain crisp even at 4K.
• Reduced glitches compared to the 2023 PS4 port, resulting in a smoother experience overall.

Platform‑Specific Experiences

PlayStation 5

Running natively on the PS5, the game delivers a stable 60 fps experience with HDR that dramatically enhances the atmosphere. The most noticeable downside is lingering pop‑in, especially when moving from high terrain into towns like Armadillo. Despite this, the overall visual fidelity feels like the most complete version of the title to date.

Xbox Series X|S

Performance mirrors the PS5 implementation, offering the same 4K 60 fps frame rate and HDR improvements. As with the PlayStation, pop‑in persists but is less intrusive than on older hardware.

Nintendo Switch 2

The handheld version impresses with handheld 4K‑scaled performance and vibrant HDR lighting. However, the motion blur is noticeably more aggressive, becoming apparent during rapid camera spins. Still, the game looks remarkably good on the portable console, making it a strong showcase for the Switch 2’s upgraded GPU.

Netflix Games & Mobile

An unexpected distribution channel, the title is also available through Netflix Games, allowing play on tablets such as the iPad. While the performance is capped at lower resolutions, it provides a convenient way for owners to experience the classic title on the go.

Gameplay and Content

Beyond technical upgrades, the core experience remains unchanged. Red Dead Redemption still offers:

• A story‑driven open world with well‑written characters and nuanced voice acting.
• Classic Western set‑pieces, ranging from high‑speed horseback chases to tense shootouts.
• Diverse environments that feel distinct, from dusty deserts to lush valleys.
• Satisfying gunplay with crisp headshot mechanics and iconic sound design.
• The Undead Nightmare DLC, a self‑contained zombie horror expansion that remains a fan‑favorite.

Value Assessment

At $50, the price is steep for a game originally released in 2010. However, for players who already own a previous version, the free upgrade provides a compelling reason to revisit the title on modern hardware. New players gain access to a fully polished, high‑resolution version that is now the most accessible iteration across all major platforms.

Conclusion

Rockstar’s 2025 upgrade of Red Dead Redemption finally delivers a true next‑gen experience, with 4K HDR, 60 fps performance, and refined visuals that breathe new life into a classic Western. While minor issues like pop‑in and aggressive motion blur on the Switch 2 persist, the overall package—complete with Undead Nightmare and cross‑save compatibility—makes it a worthwhile addition for both veterans and newcomers. The game stands as a testament to Rockstar’s storytelling prowess and now enjoys the broadest availability of any of its titles, ensuring the legacy of the original Red Dead Redemption endures on modern consoles.