Catherine HuSummary: Explore the top Red Dead Redemption mods for RDR1 and RDR2 in 2025, including the best enhancements and how to get free mods with Xmod for an improved gameplay experience.
Mods can take Red Dead Redemption and RDR2 to the next level—enhancing visuals, adding new features, and customizing gameplay.
This guide covers the best mods for both games and shows how to get them for free using Xmod.
Table of contents
- What are Red Dead Redemption mods?
- Best Red Dead Redemption 2 mods to download
- Top RDR1 mods for enhancing gaming experience
- How can you get free mods for Red Dead Redemption with Xmod?
- Conclusion
What Are Red Dead Redemption Mods?
Mods have kept Red Dead Redemption 2 thriving long after Rockstar shifted focus elsewhere. Following a final holiday update in 2022, Rockstar largely stepped away from supporting Red Dead Redemption 2 and Red Dead Online, diverting most of its efforts toward GTA 6. That said, Red Dead Online did receive a surprise 2025 update featuring new zombie and robot-themed missions. While Rockstar may be done with Red Dead for now, its community isn’t. Modders have explored nearly every part of the game—making it more challenging, more accessible, less restrictive, or more dynamic. Whatever changes you’ve ever wanted in RDR2, chances are there’s already a mod for it.
Best Red Dead Redemption 2 Mods to Download in 2025
NexusMods offers hundreds of mods for Red Dead Redemption 2, but we’ve handpicked 15 standout options—ranging from fresh outfits for Arthur and part-time job systems to improved bounty mechanics and a complete overhaul of the melee combat experience.
Keep in mind that, as with most mods, these are only compatible with the PC version of Red Dead Redemption 2. If you’re looking for great experiences on consoles instead, take a look at our top picks for the best PS5 and Xbox Series X|S games to play in 2025.
Rampage Trainer
The Rampage Trainer mod has surpassed 2.5 million downloads on Nexus Mods, making it the most indispensable tool for RDR2 modding. Now on version 1.6.6, with its latest update released on June 16, 2024, it remains actively maintained and fully compatible with the newest RDR2 patches.
- Mod Author: RampageDev
- Mod link
Rampage Trainer’s main appeal is its versatility—it lets players tweak Arthur’s stats, spawn animals and weapons, teleport to any location, change character models, manipulate time and weather, and even unlock Red Dead Online content within single-player mode.
For those aiming to explore the full potential of RDR2’s sandbox experience in 2025, Rampage remains an unparalleled tool, offering both robust features and a refined user experience.
ScriptHookRDR2 V2
ScriptHookRDR2 V2 has become the go-to foundation for advanced Red Dead Redemption 2 modding, offering a refined and updated alternative to Alexander Blade’s original version. Supporting build 1491.50, it resolves key issues that previously hindered the modding community, all while maintaining full API compatibility with existing mods. If you’re planning to use multiple mods or run script-heavy enhancements, ScriptHookRDR2 V2 is now the recommended tool.
- Mod Author: kepmehz
- Mod link
The standout enhancement in ScriptHookRDR2 V2 is its fix for a long-standing bug in the original version, which caused in-game pool resets in densely populated areas like Saint Denis. This glitch often led to disappearing NPCs, vehicles, and objects, creating headaches for both players and modders. V2 eliminates this issue entirely, ensuring stable gameplay even in mod-heavy or high-traffic environments.
For anyone serious about modding Red Dead Redemption 2, ScriptHookRDR2 V2 is more than just recommended—it has become the essential foundation that delivers stable, feature-packed modding capabilities the original tool couldn’t offer.
WhyEm’s DLC
WhyEm’s DLC is one of the most extensive cosmetic overhaul mods ever made for Red Dead Redemption 2, featuring more than 2,500 customization options including clothing, hairstyles, weapon upgrades, and horse gear. Now at version 1.1.0.2, it has earned legendary status within the modding community due to its vast scale and meticulous detail. However, users should be aware of important technical aspects before installing, as the mod requires careful setup to run smoothly.
- Mod Author: WhyEm
- Mod link
The mod overhauls nearly every facet of character customization by expanding options at the Trapper, Barber, Gun Store, and Stable. Players can choose from hundreds of new clothing combinations, including the option to remove specific items like satchels and holsters for more precise looks. Weapon customization is significantly enhanced, featuring unique grips, engravings, and color tints that surpass the base game’s options.
For players who value deep customization and have powerful systems to handle the added performance load, WhyEm’s DLC delivers unparalleled cosmetic variety. However, due to its technical demands, it may not be suitable for everyone.
Online Content Unlocker
The Online Content Unlocker has established itself as a crucial foundational mod within the Red Dead Redemption 2 modding community, providing a native framework that allows Red Dead Online assets to work seamlessly in story mode. Now at version 3.0, this tool overcomes one of the biggest hurdles in RDR2 modding by bypassing the internal RAGE engine limitations that previously blocked access to online content during single-player sessions.
- Mod Author: LeDana
- Mod link
Unlike the outdated version.dll method still mentioned in many older guides, the modern Online Content Unlocker offers a reliable and stable solution that preserves key gameplay elements such as story missions and ambient encounters. The mod has undergone significant improvements, with version 3.0 specifically fixing problems like the “beggar issue” and “sped-up animations” that affected earlier versions.
For players looking to enhance their single-player experience with online content, the Online Content Unlocker provides a solid foundation that enables advanced modding without compromising game stability.
Bounty Hunting Mod
The Bounty Hunting – Expanded and Enhanced mod has been a go-to choice for players seeking a richer bounty hunting experience in Red Dead Redemption 2. Created by Shtivi and endorsed over 8,500 times on Nexus Mods, the mod was designed to add variety and depth through limitless missions and dynamic encounters spread across the game world. However, as of 2025, the mod faces several notable issues that new users should be aware of before installing.
- Mod Author: Shtivi
- Mod link
As of version 1.4.4, the mod hasn’t been updated since June 2023, and feedback from the community in July 2025 points to major functionality problems. Players have described it as “broken as hell in its current state,” citing critical issues such as blank bounty posters and invisible wagons. With over 115 active bug reports, it’s clear the mod struggles to remain compatible with recent RDR2 updates.
Although it was once a landmark in expanding the bounty hunting experience, its current instability makes it hard to recommend without extensive troubleshooting and a willingness to deal with compatibility challenges.
Bank Robberies
Bank robbery mods have been a favorite among Red Dead Redemption 2 players, especially those let down by the limited bank heist options available outside of story missions. The modding scene offers two primary choices: the original Bank Robberies mod, which enables robberies at three banks, and SgtJoe’s Bank Robberies, which expands this functionality to include all five banks in the game. However, both mods are known to have notable stability issues, making it essential for users to be aware of the potential risks before installing them.
- Mod Author: UnlosingPlays
- Mod link
SgtJoe Bank Robberies, now at version 2.0, lets players independently rob all five major banks—Valentine, Rhodes, Saint Denis, Strawberry, and Annesburg—by simply threatening the teller with a weapon. The premise is simple: walk into a bank, aim your gun, force the clerk to open the vault, and make your escape while contending with law enforcement. It brings to life the classic outlaw fantasy many players crave. However, despite its exciting concept, the mod’s current technical condition carries risks, including potential save file corruption, making it a hazardous option for some users.
Buyable Properties
SgtJoe Bank Robberies, currently at version 2.0, enables players to rob all five major banks—Valentine, Rhodes, Saint Denis, Strawberry, and Annesburg—by merely aiming a weapon at the teller. The mechanics are straightforward: enter the bank, intimidate the clerk into opening the vault, grab the loot, and escape while evading the law. The mod taps directly into the Wild West outlaw fantasy. However, despite its immersive appeal, the mod is known to suffer from technical instability, with some users reporting issues like save file corruption—making it a risky choice for those looking to preserve game stability.
- Mod Author: bolmin70
- Mod link
The mod introduces a variety of unique properties for purchase, such as Ridge View Cabin in the Heartlands, Shepherd’s Rise Cabin near Strawberry, and Argil Rise near Rhodes, along with hotel rooms in major towns like Valentine and Saint Denis. Buying a property is a seamless process—players simply approach the “for sale” sign and interact with the purchase prompt. Once acquired, each property becomes a fully customizable home, allowing for detailed changes to both interiors and exteriors.
For players seeking a sense of ownership and a satisfying end-game goal, the Buyable Properties Mod offers the home base experience that Red Dead Redemption 2’s base game lacks.
Dynamic Seasons
Dynamic Seasons by bolmin70 brings a new level of immersion to Red Dead Redemption 2 by introducing a full seasonal cycle, complete with distinct weather patterns, visual changes, and environmental effects for each season. As of version 1.6, released on July 20, 2025, the mod has received 6,182 endorsements on Nexus Mods. It fills a long-standing gap in the base game by adding realistic seasonal transitions that give every playthrough a fresh, evolving atmosphere.
- Mod Author: bolmin70
- Mod link
The mod delivers a unique atmosphere for every season—winter blankets the landscape in snow reminiscent of Red Dead Online’s holiday events, autumn fills the world with deep reds and oranges, and spring ushers in vibrant greenery after the frost. By default, each season lasts around 10 real-world hours, though players can customize the duration through configuration settings. The changes are especially striking in winter, with snowy transformations that make familiar locations feel entirely new.
Dynamic Seasons stands out by offering the kind of evolving world Red Dead Redemption 2 was always meant to have, turning every return to the frontier into a fresh experience shaped by time and climate.
Special Edition Content Unlocker
The Special Edition Content Unlocker has become popular among Red Dead Redemption 2 players seeking access to premium content without purchasing the Special Edition. Developed by ArthurMorgan899 on Nexus Mods, this mod tackles a frequent complaint from standard edition users since the game’s 2018 launch. Its release comes at a perfect time, coinciding with renewed interest in RDR2 following the July 2025 Strange Tales of the West update.
- Mod Author: ArthurMorgan899
- Mod link
The mod unlocks content previously restricted to Special Edition owners, granting all players access to exclusive story missions, unique items, and gameplay enhancements. Notably, it adds the bank robbery mission and gang hideout, enriching story mode content, while also providing the thoroughbred black horse with dark apples—a stylish mount with superior stats that can boost performance throughout Arthur’s journey. For those wanting the full Red Dead Redemption 2 experience without extra cost, this mod delivers all the Special Edition content that arguably should have been part of the base game.
Ped Damage Overhaul
The Ped Damage Overhaul stands out as one of the most impactful combat mods for Red Dead Redemption 2, fundamentally redefining the feel and flow of gunfights. Developed collaboratively by HJ, fitfondue, and starkweather43, the mod received its latest update on July 2, 2025, demonstrating ongoing support and refinement from its creators. What began as a straightforward damage tweak has grown into a full-scale combat overhaul, adding depth and realism to every firefight.
- Mod Author: Mickterminator30
- Mod link
Instead of NPCs simply dropping instantly, the mod introduces dynamic injury reactions—enemies may limp while fleeing, writhe in pain on the ground, or moan after severe wounds. This results in a more immersive and gritty combat experience that better matches the mature, Western tone of the game.
For players seeking gunfights that feel as brutal and consequential as the story implies, Ped Damage Overhaul makes each encounter more intense and believable.
RDR2 Save Editor Tool
The Red Dead Redemption 2 Save Editor by XB36Hazard highlights both the potential and challenges of specialized modding tools. Now in beta version 0.1.9.0, this free editor provides extensive save file customization options for PC and PlayStation 4 players, including adjustments to money, health, stamina, Dead Eye levels, honor, inventory, and character swapping.
- Mod Author: Dark0ne
- Mod link
However, its usability is significantly hindered by ongoing reliability problems. A major issue is the tool’s reliance on the X3T-Infinity.com server infrastructure, which frequently goes offline for extended periods, causing “error 503” messages that block downloads and updates. Additionally, the editor requires a constant internet connection to XB36Hazard’s servers to operate, meaning that server outages render the tool completely unusable—even if already installed.
While the idea of a comprehensive save editor is attractive, these server-related issues and inconsistent performance make it frustrating to use regularly, especially compared to easier alternatives like community-shared pre-made save files.
Combat Roll
The Combat Roll mod by Rededrunk has sparked considerable excitement within the Red Dead Redemption 2 community by reintroducing one of the original game’s most cherished combat moves. While the Open All Interiors mod previously held a prominent spot, it has been under moderation review since November 11, 2024, allowing Combat Roll to rise in popularity by delivering a different yet equally valuable gameplay improvement.
- Mod Author: niel0258
- Mod link
This mod addresses a common criticism from fans disappointed that Rockstar replaced the smooth combat roll with a less fluid diving mechanic in the sequel. Its release timing is ideal, especially with recent reviews praising how the mod makes Arthur Morgan’s gunfights feel “just like Max Payne.”
Combat Roll is a well-crafted, targeted enhancement that improves gameplay without adding unnecessary complexity, making it an excellent choice for players focusing on combat mods.
LITE – Multiplayer Asset Enabler
LITE – Multiplayer Asset Enabler by ChunkLeChuck has become the go-to modern replacement for the discontinued Red Dead Offline mod, offering a stable and efficient way to access Red Dead Online content within story mode. Currently at version 1.4.0 (as of March 9, 2025), this mod has earned 437 endorsements on Nexus Mods by effectively resolving the severe memory pool and compatibility issues that troubled earlier online content unlockers.
- Mod Author: ChunkLeChuck
- Mod link
Unlike previous mods that relied on copying others’ work, LITE was developed from the ground up using modified base game files, focusing on the minimalist modding trend popular in 2025. Unlike the flawed Online Content Unlocker—which caused NPCs to vanish and trains to appear empty—LITE provides several versions to suit different user needs.
The standard LITE version supports most mods needing online components, while the EXTRA LITE and HORSE LITE versions unlock only select content to maximize performance. By delivering the most dependable way to enjoy online assets in story mode without compromising game stability, LITE – Multiplayer Asset Enabler stands out as the recommended choice for 2025 modding setups that value performance over exhaustive content access.
RDR2 2025 Enhanced Edition
The RDR2 2025 Enhanced Edition by UrbanChaos20 represents the forefront of visual upgrade mods for Red Dead Redemption 2. Released just last week and already surpassing 1,000 downloads, this mod has quickly become the go-to choice for players seeking photorealistic graphics in 2025. What distinguishes it from numerous other visual mods is its exceptional ability to significantly enhance visual quality while actually improving game performance rather than causing slowdowns.
- Mod Author: UrbanChaos20
- Mod link
This mod elevates Red Dead Redemption 2’s stunning visuals by upgrading lighting systems, refining color schemes, enhancing textures, and accentuating smoke and particle effects—delivering what the creator calls “unmatched graphical fidelity and photorealistic visuals.” With advanced DLSS and FSR support, players with modern GPUs can enjoy breathtaking graphics without the usual performance trade-offs.
For those aiming to experience Red Dead Redemption 2 at its visual peak in 2025 without compromising smooth gameplay, the Enhanced Edition strikes an ideal balance between stunning visuals and optimized performance.
Cut Voiceline Restoration
Cut Voiceline Restoration revitalizes Arthur and John by reintroducing hundreds of dialogue lines that were recorded but omitted from the final game, enhancing the authenticity and variety of conversations and combat interactions. Since its release in February 2025, the mod has quickly gained popularity, amassing nearly 1,500 downloads within weeks as players uncover the rich personality that was left unused.
- Mod Author: niel0258
- Mod link
This restoration goes far beyond basic combat taunts, adding dialogue for moments that felt unusually silent in the original game. Arthur now delivers specific lines when psyching himself up in cover, showing anger during intense standoffs, and reacting to near misses. John also receives his own restored lines, including vocal cues when driving wagons that emphasize his gruff nature. The diversity of lines is notable, changing depending on whether you face single or multiple enemies, your honor status, and whether opponents are lawmen or civilians.
By addressing one of Red Dead Redemption 2’s most overlooked shortcomings, Cut Voiceline Restoration reintroduces the vocal character that made earlier Rockstar protagonists so engaging, proving that sometimes the smallest touches greatly enhance immersion.
Top RDR1 Mods for Enhancing the Gaming Experience
Red Dead Redemption (RDR1) is a classic open-world western known for its immersive story and expansive frontier. While the base game is already impressive, using mods—especially when managed through Xmod—can significantly enhance graphics, tweak gameplay, and unlock new features. Xmod makes it easy to install and manage these enhancements safely and for free. Below are some of the best RDR1 mods to upgrade your Wild West adventure.
Undead Nightmare 2K
- Created by: CADR
- Download Link
Arguably, the top mod for Red Dead Redemption 1 is the Undead Nightmare texture pack. Many fans regard the Undead Nightmare DLC as the highlight of the game, and this mod lets you experience that peak classic action-adventure with enhanced, upscaled textures.
The mod upgrades the visuals of gore, bones, undead creatures, zombie foes, and coffins. It is actively maintained with ongoing updates, meaning even more content will be visually enhanced soon. If you’re planning to play or revisit the DLC after experiencing the emotional ending, this incredible mod is a must-have for the best experience.
Frosty Ambience
- Created by: iiXAtomXii
- Download Link
If you’re looking to completely refresh the feel of New Austin and West Elizabeth, the Frosty Ambience mod is a great choice. This mod introduces a variety of detailed weather effects throughout the American and Mexican territories, all centered around snowy, winter themes.
True to its name, the game will be covered in sparkling snowfall, and the sky will take on a moody, wintery hue. Additionally, your bullets and dynamite explosions are transformed into icy water splashes and frozen blasts, adding to the immersive frosty atmosphere.
Quick Loot
- Created by: Orion1189
- Download Link
If there’s one activity you do more frequently than horse riding or shooting in Red Dead, it’s looting corpses. While satisfying, it can also be quite time-consuming. If you’ve ever wanted to speed up collecting money and ammunition, the Quick Loot mod is just what you need.
This mod eliminates the looting animations, so when you press the prompt button, John stays put and you instantly receive your items. This can save you several minutes, even hours, over the course of your playthrough. As an added bonus, the same faster looting applies to skinning animals, making it an even better mod overall.
Undead War Horse
- Created by: iiXAtomXii
- Download Link
One of the standout features of Red Dead Redemption’s Undead Nightmare DLC is the zombie horse you get to ride. More than just a cool Halloween-themed cosmetic, this horse boasts incredible speed and unlimited stamina. However, the base game restricts its use to the DLC only—until now.
This mod finally allows you to ride the Undead Horse in the main game, fulfilling a fan request that’s been around for over ten years. Since it’s arguably the best horse in the entire Red Dead Redemption series, this mod is a true blessing for fans everywhere.
No Grass or Trees
- Created by: MrSuS60
- Download Link
Not everyone plays the Red Dead Redemption PC port on a high-end gaming rig. Many of us use basic laptops to enjoy games that aren’t graphically demanding. Although RDR1 doesn’t require a powerhouse PC, some players still find it challenging to run smoothly.
This is where the No Trees or Grass mod proves useful. As its name suggests, the mod removes almost all grass and trees, significantly boosting framerate and reducing stuttering. It can improve your FPS by about ten, which can make a huge difference for many players.
Dark Cowboy Suit
- Created by: Sinoda0
- Download Link
One of the standout cosmetic mods is the Dark Cowboy Suit, which turns John Marston into a truly menacing anti-hero. This sleek, almost modern outfit not only gives John a tough, stylish look but also fits perfectly for players aiming for a crime-focused or vigilante-style playthrough.
The mod works seamlessly during both gameplay and cutscenes, providing a great reason to revisit the story if you’ve played before. Whether you want to blend into the shadows at night or stand out with a bold new look, this suit is an excellent way to refresh your Red Dead Redemption experience.
Treasure Maps
- Created by: OTISPACE
- Download Link
Red Dead Redemption features nine treasure maps that lead to valuable and unique items, but some can be difficult to locate, which might lessen the enjoyment for certain players. That’s where the Treasure Maps mod comes in handy—it allows you to bypass the tedious searching and jump straight into the treasure hunt.
Once installed, all the maps are added directly to your inventory. This mod offers a fantastic way to explore the world at your own pace and adds a more relaxed element to the gameplay. It’s especially ideal for returning players who have already found the maps the traditional way and want to experience the game from a fresh perspective.
PlayStation Buttons
- Created by: sergio1030
- Download Link
For players who have enjoyed the game numerous times on its original console, it can be challenging to separate the experience from the familiar buttons and prompts. That’s why longtime Red Dead fans might want to try the PlayStation Buttons mod.
This straightforward mod changes all on-screen button prompts to the classic PlayStation symbols—square, circle, triangle, and X—recreating the authentic feel of the game as it was back in 2010. It’s compatible with any Sony controller, including PS3 and PS5 models.
How to Get Free Mods for Red Dead Redemption with Xmod
If you’re looking for a fast, beginner-friendly modding experience, Xmod offers free access to curated mod collections for both RDR1 and RDR2:
- Download and install Xmod on your PC.
- Open Xmod and let it detect your RDR1 / RDR2 installations.
- Navigate to the Mods section and browse curated selections or individual mods.
- Simply click Install—Xmod handles dependencies, version compatibility, and installation paths automatically.
- Launch your game via Xmod or a mod manager to ensure everything loads properly.
Xmod is especially helpful for users who want to avoid manual mod installation and dependency issues.
Conclusion
In conclusion, mods offer exciting ways to refresh and expand your Red Dead Redemption experience on both RDR1 and RDR2. Using tools like Xmod makes accessing these mods easier and free, ensuring your gameplay stays fresh and engaging in 2025.
