Ever finished the epic journey of Arthur Morgan in Red Dead Redemption 2 and felt that massive, frontier-sized void in your gaming soul? You're not alone. The quest for a worthy successor, especially within the Xbox Game Pass library, can feel like searching for gold in a dried-up riverbed. But guess what? The treasure is there, partner. While no single game can perfectly replicate the RDR2 experience, Xbox Game Pass in 2026 is brimming with titles that capture its spirit in different, brilliant ways. Whether it's the immersive open worlds, gripping narratives, or that specific Western atmosphere you crave, there's something to fill that saddlebag.

🤠 The Ultimate Open-World Benchmark: The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim

No open-world conversation is complete without mentioning the titan that is Skyrim. While its main quest might not have the emotional gut-punch of RDR2's story, the true magic lies in its endless exploration and memorable side content. Wandering the frostbitten peaks and ancient ruins of Tamriel offers a similar sense of boundless freedom and discovery. Want to ignore the dragons and become a master thief, a powerful mage, or just a humble alchemist? The choice is yours. It's the quintessential 'live another life' fantasy that makes it a timeless Game Pass essential.

🏜️ Western Action with a Supernatural Twist: Evil West

Craving that gunslinging action but wish RDR2 had a wild, supernatural expansion like Undead Nightmare? Look no further than Evil West. This title throws you into a dark fantasy version of the Old West where you battle vampiric hordes with an arsenal of steampunk-inspired weaponry. It's all about fast-paced, visceral combat, either solo or in co-op. While the narrative takes a backseat to the action, it provides a solid framework for all the demon-slaying mayhem. It's the perfect pick for when you just want to scratch that Western itch with some over-the-top monster hunting.

🎬 Cinematic Adventure Mastery: Indiana Jones and the Great Circle

If you loved the cinematic, movie-like storytelling of RDR2, then Indiana Jones and the Great Circle is an absolute must-play. This game masters the art of the cinematic set piece, delivering globetrotting excitement that feels ripped straight from a Spielberg film. But it's not just a passive experience; the game is incredibly responsive to your actions. Forget just shooting—you'll be swinging from whips, solving environmental puzzles, and yanking enemies off ledges. It captures that same feeling of being the star of your own blockbuster adventure.

🌙 A Deep South Folklore Fantasy: South of Midnight

Think of South of Midnight as the spiritual successor to RDR2's sense of place, but for the American Deep South. While RDR2 defined the West, this game dives headfirst into the rich beauty, danger, and haunting folklore of the South with a fantastical twist. Its narrative and stunning art style are the main attractions, weaving a compelling tale about family and legacy. The gameplay is more straightforward action-adventure, but the overall experience is carried by its powerful atmosphere and story. At around 12 hours, it's a concise yet deeply impactful journey.

🏜️ The Post-Apocalyptic Western Masterpiece: Fallout: New Vegas

Ask any seasoned gamer for the best narrative-driven Western experience after RDR2, and Fallout: New Vegas will be the answer. Strip away the radiation and robots, and you have a pure, hard-boiled Western tale of factions, revenge, and survival in the Mojave Wasteland. The storytelling is unparalleled, offering player agency with meaningful choices that shape the world. The Courier might not be as defined as Arthur Morgan, but the world around them is packed with more nuance, dark humor, and moral complexity than almost any other game. It’s a must-play for anyone who values story above all.

🚗 Freedom on the Open Road: Forza Horizon 5

Hear us out! A racing game? For RDR2 fans? Absolutely. Forza Horizon 5 captures the pure, unadulterated feeling of freedom that defines the best open worlds. Cruising across the breathtaking, diverse landscapes of Mexico in a stunning classic car evokes the same serene joy as riding across the Heartlands at sunset. There's no story to speak of, but the game is a love letter to exploration and the open road. It's the ultimate palette cleanser and a reminder that sometimes, the journey itself is the destination.

🔫 Bounty Hunting Evolved: Hunt: Showdown

Did you spend hours tracking down every last bounty in RDR2? Hunt: Showdown takes that core fantasy and transforms it into a tense, high-stakes multiplayer extraction shooter. Set in a supernatural 1896, you hunt monstrous targets in a dark, atmospheric swamp (and later, Colorado) while competing against other player-controlled hunters. The sound design, period-accurate weapons, and constant tension create an unparalleled immersive experience. It’s the ultimate test of your gunslinger skills against both AI and human foes.

🏙️ Chaos in the City: Grand Theft Auto V

The most obvious alternative is often the best. As Rockstar's other masterpiece, GTA V offers a comparable level of world-building detail, systemic reactivity, and sheer scale—just transplanted to the modern, chaotic city of Los Santos. The tone is wildly different (more satirical and chaotic), but the foundational quality is identical. Jumping between three compelling protagonists offers a unique narrative angle, and the world is packed with secrets and distractions. If you love getting lost in a living, breathing world, this is your game.

⚔️ Ancient History & Compelling Heroes: Assassin's Creed Origins

For a historical open-world fix, Assassin's Creed Origins is your best bet. Exploring ancient Egypt as the medjay Bayek is incredibly absorbing. The game successfully pivoted the series into an RPG-lite direction, focusing on a strong protagonist and a captivating setting. The rhythm of uncovering tombs, climbing pyramids, and engaging in combat provides a similar 'one more quest' hook. While the story may not reach RDR2's heights, the world certainly does in terms of sheer awe and scale.

🎭 A 2025 Storytelling Gem: Clair Obscur: Expedition 33

This breakout hit of 2025 proves that you don't need a massive open world to deliver a story with RDR2-level emotional weight. Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 is a narrative-driven JRPG that tackles heavy themes with incredible skill. Its turn-based combat is a departure, but innovative mechanics like a parry system keep it engaging. If your main takeaway from RDR2 was its powerful character drama and poignant storytelling, this Game Pass standout deserves your immediate attention.

So, there you have it, cowboys and cowgirls! The Xbox Game Pass library in 2026 is richer than ever with experiences that channel the spirit of Red Dead Redemption 2. Whether you saddle up for a post-apocalyptic Western, whip through a cinematic adventure, or simply cruise into a Mexican sunset, your next great journey is just a download away. 🤠 What are you waiting for?