Red Dead Redemption: Microsoft explain Xbox One Backward Compatibility decision
MICROSOFT have issued an apology after withdrawing Red Dead Redemption from the Xbox One Backward Compatibility program.
Red Dead Redemption is no longer available to play on the Xbox One
Rockstar's legendary western adventure was made available to play for gamers who owned a digital copy over the weekend.
However, Microsoft were quick to shut down access to the Xbox 360 classic, much to the bemusement of fans.
Larry 'Major Nelson' Hryb has since offered a reasonable explanation, revealing: "Microsoft tests all Xbox 360 games with our [backwards compatibility] emulator to ensure a quality experience across a breadth of titles.
Red Dead Redemption Gameplay - Life In The West
Microsoft have apologised for the error
"Due to an error, some of the games currently in test were accidentally made available. We have since removed access to those games and apologise for any confusion this may have caused."
The news will come as a disappointment to gamers, with Red Dead Redemption the third-most requested title for the Backward Compatibility program behind Skyrim and Black Ops 2.
Eagle-eyed fans had already spotted the game as a download in late January alongside Left 4 Dead 2, but will now have to wait for more information if they want to get their hands on it again.
It is claimed that Rockstar are working on a sequel to Red Dead Redemption
Meanwhile, reports claim that work on Red Dead Redemption 2 is quietly stepping up.
It is said that Rockstar are planning to release the sequel in 2016, and plan to call it Legends of the Old West.
The same reports add that the western sandbox could feature an open-world online multiplayer mode in the style of Grand Theft Auto 5, although there is yet to be any confirmation from Rockstar.