An image of what is said to be the map for Red Dead Redemption 2's game world has appeared online. Initially, the image was posted on NeoGAF by user Mideon, who later removed it, but not before it was saved and reposted.

Techradar claims "a source close to the development of the new Red Dead game has confirmed to us the map is indeed the real deal." According to the site the image is "a very recent art direction map."

The image, which you can see above, features the Great Plains, where the Blackwater area from the first game was located. Additionally, numerous islands can be seen on the outskirts, indicating the player may be able to either swim, or take a boat out to new locations.

The game, which has not yet been announced by Red Dead Redemption developer Rockstar, is reportedly a prequel. The absence of a railroad, which was prominently featured in Redemption, is further evidence of this, the site says. However, it's worth noting that map has "railroad" in its key.

Another interesting area featured in the map is New Bordeaux (bottom right). This is the area where Mafia 3, distributed by Rockstar's parent company, Take-Two Interactive, is set. It takes place in 1968.

GameSpot has contacted Rockstar and Take-Two for a comment on the image leak.

Although Take-Two has never outright confirmed a new Red Dead title, the company's chief executive, Strauss Zelnick, has previously suggested one is inevitable, describing it as a "permanent" property, much like Grand Theft Auto.

On March 26, Techradar also reported that "preliminary" work on Grand Theft Auto 6 had started. Rockstar also previously considered a "full" Grand Theft Auto game set in Tokyo and even sent staff to the Japanese city for a research trip.

In related news, former Rockstar North president Leslie Benzies has claimed Red Dead Redemption had significant development problems, which he was instrumental in addressing. Benzies has launched a lawsuit against Take-Two Interactive, seeking $150 million in unpaid royalties. Take-Two has filed a counter-suit.