As many Red Dead Redemption 2 fans are likely aware, the beta period for the open world western's multiplayer component, Red Dead Online, has officially begun today. Those who own RDR2's Ultimate Edition are being given access first, with the beta's availability then being gradually opened up to larger player numbers throughout the rest of this week. So, to get everyone prepared for the content to come in Red Dead Online, Rockstar Games has decided to confirm the modes available at launch that will be part of a larger series of activities called "Showdowns".

According to Rockstar, Red Dead Redemption 2 players will be able to take part in five different modes at the outset of Red Dead Online's beta, and they will be able to enter into them through Showdown Series Markers for fast matchmaking. The full list of game modes available in the multiplayer beta and their descriptions can be found directly below:

• Shootout & Team ShootoutClassic gunfight modes with unlimited lives. Compete to rack up the most kills before the timer runs out. Sudden death will trigger in the event of a tie: whoever gets the first kill wins.
• Make It CountA true test of resourcefulness in two game modes: use nothing but a bow and a handful of arrows or throwing knives to be the last one standing. With a gradually shrinking player area, there’s nowhere to run.
• Most WantedA tactical race to the top. Every kill pushes you up the scoreboard, but watch out: the closer to the top you are, the more points everyone else gets for killing you.
• Hostile TerritoryWork in teams to control the land. Capture a territory to start racking up points: the team with most points wins - or you can win outright by capturing every territory.
• Name Your WeaponDemonstrate your personal specialty in this free-for-all or team based match: the trickier the weapon you use to land the killing blow, the more points you get.

It's safe to presume that most Red Dead Redemption 2 players will flock to the more traditionally styled multiplayer modes of "Shootout & Team Shootout" and "Hostile Territory". Those looking for more of a challenge, though, may choose to give "Name Your Weapon" and "Make It Count" a go.

According to the descriptions, "Name Your Weapon" ought to push Red Dead Online players outside of their comfort zones to become more proficient will all of the modes' available weapons. "Make It Count", on the other hand, appears to be designed as a means to not only slake one's thirst for battle royale in RDR2, but also looks to be a test to one's combat and survival skills with there only being a limited choice of low-impact weaponry and a scarce amount of ammo on-hand.

As of now, there's no telling if or when Rockstar will add more game modes into Red Dead Online following the beta period. However, if the glut of updates given to Grand Theft Auto Online during the course of its lifespan are any indication of the developer's plans for RDR2's multiplayer, then players should expect to see many more modes show up in the future.

Red Dead Redemption 2 is available now for PlayStation 4 and Xbox One.