'Red Dead Redemption 2': Pre-order cards provide discounts, not special editions

There are hardly any details circulating about Rockstar Games’ upcoming “Red Dead Redemption 2” title. Instead of an official gameplay video or teaser, the game developer has instead been leaving little hints, the most recent of which is a mysterious pre-order card.

An image of the pre-order card was uploaded by a Reddit user, which offers a new way for players to get their hands on “Red Dead Redemption 2.” There have been online and in-store methods to purchase the title for quite a while now, and it was first thought that the card would provide a limited edition of the title. However, the process is actually far simpler.

According to the thread, a physical store has recently received units of the pre-order cards. What they do is reserve a physical copy of the game, without requiring individuals to outrightly pay the US$59.99 (AU$79) price. Instead, interested gamers can purchase the card for US$1 (AU$1.32) and then pay for the rest when the disc is already available.

The process, as noted by RDR2.Com is geared towards a very specific niche of players. Digital copies of the game are not going to run out, so it might not make sense to some individuals why others would prefer a physical copy. Nevertheless, there are certain gamers who prefer having the tangible version of the game. And while there are other ways to reserve in-store, the pre-order cards eliminates the need to directly pay for the entire “Red Dead Redemption 2” game now.

The cards, which will also provide a US$5 (AU$6.60) discount at Target, will go on sale on Feb. 5. The sale date has left many wondering whether or not it is significant for any other reason, particularly because this is when the Super Bowl will kick off. Some fans are speculating that Rockstar Games might have a trailer reveal during the much awaited event.

And while releasing a gaming trailer during a large sporting event might seem a little unorthodox, Rockstar Games certainly has the means to secure a few minutes of the Super Bowl -- the game developer is said to still be reaping the financial benefits of “Grand Theft Auto 5.” In addition, it has long been speculated that new “Red Dead Redemption 2” details will hit the air this month as a Take-Two investor call is scheduled for February.

“Red Dead Redemption 2” will officially hit the market in the last quarter of the year. The official launch date has yet to be announced. Digital pre-orders can be made here.

Watch the "Red Dead Redemption 2" teaser trailer