Rockstar Games has announced “Red Dead Online,” the online component of the upcoming “Red Dead Redemption 2.”

“Red Dead Online” is an “evolution” of the original “Red Dead Redemption’s” multiplayer mode, which will combine narrative elements with both cooperative and competitive gameplay options. “Red Dead Online” will continue to receive updates throughout its life cycle as it relies on the base “Red Dead Redemption 2” to exist as its foundation.

An IGN exclusive interview with the Rockstar Games team indicates that the new mode will indeed use the same world and gameplay mechanics as “Red Dead Redemption 2” as a “jumping off point.” The decision was made to keep this particular portion online rather than releasing it as a single-player experience was because the team views both “Red Dead Online” and “Red Dead Redemption 2” as separate products that will grow independently of each other.

For those concerned about the synergy between Rockstar’s other hit online title “GTA Online” and “Red Dead Online,” the team made it clear that there will be several differences between both game modes. The aim is for players to “settle into” their online characters, while building a personal experience that makes sense in the context of “Red Dead Redemption 2’s” world.

As such, the team took the “best elements and content packs” from “GTA Online” for use with what would debut in “Red Dead Online.” Considering Heists, “After Hours,” “The Doomsday Heist,” and “Gun Running” the crux of what the online component of “Grand Theft Auto” had to offer, those elements were rolled into things that the team wanted to also see in “Red Dead Online,” as well as pieces of the old “Red Dead Redemption” multiplayer mode.

It’s important to note, of course, that “Grand Theft Auto Online” will still continue to co-exist with “Red Dead Online,” and Rockstar Games has “big plans” for the mode. Updates will be staggered between both games, as “Red Dead Online” turns its focus toward role-playing and morality, which is a sight different of a direction than what “GTA Online” has to offer.

The game is expected to launch Nov. 18 with a public beta, though there’s currently no firm date on which we can expect the beta to open up to players. The new mode will be free to anyone who purchases “Red Dead Redemption 2” across both PlayStation 4 and Xbox One.