A modder has turned Red Dead Redemption 2 into a ‘legally distinct’ Pokémon style game

February 3, 2026 - 18:49

A creative modder has radically reimagined the vast open world of Red Dead Redemption 2, turning Rockstar Games' gritty western into a lighthearted creature-collecting adventure reminiscent of classic Pokémon games. Dubbed "Legally Distinct" to avoid copyright issues, the innovative modification swaps out guns and outlaws for a very different kind of frontier pursuit.

Instead of engaging in shootouts, players now explore the states of Lemoyne and New Hanover to seek out and capture a variety of local wildlife. Once caught, these animals can be deployed into turn-based battles against the creatures owned by non-playable characters scattered across the landscape. The mod completely overhauls the game's core mechanics, introducing a new battle system, creature stats, and a unique progression loop centered on building a powerful team.

This surprising transformation highlights the incredible flexibility of Red Dead Redemption 2's world and the boundless creativity of the modding community. It offers veterans a completely novel way to experience the meticulously crafted environments, trading tales of outlaws for a whimsical journey to become the greatest creature trainer in the Old West. The project stands as a testament to how player-driven content can breathe entirely new life into a beloved game years after its release.