Rockstar Games delays 'Red Dead Redemption 2' to spring 2018

May 23 (UPI) -- Rockstar Games has delayed their upcoming open-world western sequel Red Dead Redemption 2 until spring 2018.

"This outlaw epic set across the vast and unforgiving American heartland will be the first Rockstar game created from the ground up for the latest generation of console hardware, and some extra time is necessary to ensure that we can deliver the best experience possible for our fans," the company said in a statement Monday.

"We are very sorry for any disappointment this delay causes, but we are firm believers in delivering a game only when it is ready. We are really excited to bring you more details about the game this summer," Rockstar continued.

Alongside the delay announcement was a collection of screenshots taken from the title that feature a masked cowboy wielding two pistols and the game's sprawling Wild West-themed open-world that is full of dense forests, open ranges and populated towns.

Announced in October for the Playstation 4 and Xbox One, Red Dead Redemption 2 is set to tell an "epic tale of life in America's unforgiving heartland. The game's vast and atmospheric world will also provide the foundation for a brand new online multiplayer experience," according to the synopsis.

The original Red Dead Redemption was released for the Playstation 3 and Xbox 360 in 2010. It followed former outlaw John Marston as he became a hired gun for the government after his wife and son were taken hostage. The top-selling and critically acclaimed hit was preceded by Red Dead Revolver which was released for the Playstation 2 and Xbox in 2004.

It remains unclear of whether or not this new title works as a prequel to Red Dead Redemption that also stars John Marston.