Epic Games Store Set to Unleash a Month of Free Games, Including ‘Red Dead Redemption 2’

Gamers are bracing for a December to remember as the Epic Games Store prepares to offer a daily trove of free titles, kicking off December 18th. The giveaway, intended to rival Steam’s holiday offerings and highlight recent platform updates, has already sparked excitement with a potential list circulating online.

The buzz began after a purported leak surfaced on the Chinese social media platform QQ, detailing a possible lineup of games. While Epic Games has yet to officially confirm the schedule, the prospect of snagging high-profile titles at no cost is generating significant anticipation within the gaming community.

‘Red Dead Redemption 2’ Headlines Potential List

The biggest draw, according to the leaked information, is the inclusion of ‘Red Dead Redemption 2’, slated to be available for free on New Year’s Eve. The critically acclaimed open-world adventure, known for its immersive storytelling and stunning visuals, has sold over 57 million copies worldwide as of February 2023, according to Take-Two Interactive, its publisher. Offering it as a free download would represent a major coup for the Epic Games Store, potentially attracting new users and bolstering platform engagement.

“This is a really smart move by Epic,” says gaming analyst Daniel Ahmad, Senior Analyst at Niko Partners. “Giving away a AAA title like ‘Red Dead Redemption 2’ creates a huge amount of positive PR and incentivizes players to check out the Epic Games Store ecosystem.”

Full Potential Schedule (Subject to Change)

Here’s a look at the rumored schedule of free games:

• December 18: Jurassic World: Evolution 2
• December 19: Desperados 3
• December 20: Total War: Warhammer
• December 21: Tropico 5
• December 22: Chicken Police – Paint it RED!
• December 23: Loop Hero
• December 24: LEGO Batman
• December 25: Commander Keen
• December 26: Farming Simulator 22
• December 27: Slime Rancher 2
• December 28: Terraria
• December 29: Detroit: Become Human
• December 30: Mortal Kombat 11
• December 31: Red Dead Redemption 2

Caveats and Official Confirmation Needed

It’s crucial to note that the leaked list remains unverified. Some skepticism surrounds the inclusion of titles like ‘Commander Keen’ and ‘Mortal Kombat 11,’ which are not currently available on the Epic Games Store. While Epic could add these games specifically for the promotion, it’s considered less likely.

The initial free offering, ‘Hogwarts Legacy,’ is already available as of this week, providing a taste of what’s to come. However, gamers are advised to await official announcements from Epic Games before getting their hopes set on any particular title.

The Epic Games Store’s holiday giveaway is part of a broader trend of digital distribution platforms leveraging free games to attract and retain users. The global gaming market is projected to reach $385.74 billion in 2024, according to Statista, making competition for players’ attention fierce. These promotions are a key strategy in that battle.

Keep an eye on the Epic Games Store starting December 18th for the official reveal of this year’s holiday gifts.