Rumour: Red Dead Redemption 2 map leaked

Update 18/04/16: Some kind internet person has redrawn the leaked map so that it is now easier on the eye, you can find the updated map below the original leaked image.

Original Story 15/04/16: So according to a map posted on NeoGAF, which was later removed, it is allegedly the map to the sequel of Red Dead Redemption or as the apparent source states, is a prequel to Redemption.  However, while the map can be easily dismissed as a fake, Techradar claim that the map has been confirmed by their very own independent source.  So what do you believe?

The map is said to be a “very recent” art direction for the upcoming title, which many expect to be officially announced at this year’s E3 in June.  With the game allegedly being a prequel, the source says that the map seen in this article is located “just east” of the map/open-world location that featured in Red Dead Redemption.

What links the Red Dead Redemption map and the alleged prequel map, is that if you look at the bottom left of the leaked map, you will see the location Great Plains, which is also located in the top right of Redemptions map.  I’ve included both maps in this article for you to examine.

As pointed out by Techradar, the new leaked map doesn’t appear to have a railroad track in the Great Plains, which might suggest that the upcoming game does have an earlier timeline to Redemption.  It does look increasingly likely that the game will be officially announced at E3, because we’ve already had the leaked CV of a 3D artist, who worked at Rockstar that claimed to have worked on Read Dead Redemption 2.  Add that to the fact that publishers Take-Two have said that they will be at this year’s E3 “in a big way” and the series has previously been referred to as a “permanent franchise” by a Take-Two executive.

Alleged leaked map (click to enlarge)

Updated image of leaked map (click to enlarge)

Red Dead Redemption map (click to enlarge)

Speaking of Take-Two, you may notice that at the bottom right of the leaked map, it features a location called New Bordeaux, which is also the fictional location of the forthcoming Mafia III.  Which of course has sparked rumours that the two games may be linked in some kind of way.

So what do you make of these rumours? Do you think a new Read Dead Redemption will be announced at E3? Do you believe this map to be genuine and do you think the game will link into Mafia III?

Personally while the game maybe a prequel set in a near location, much like what Red Dead Redemption was to Red Dead Revolver, I believe the next game will still be western themed, but with a new sub-name, a new lead character with a new story.  Also, if I think it will link into any game, then I would guess it might be GTA V, if anything else.  Let us know what you think in the comments section below.