Red Dead Redemption 2 – Game Review

Red Dead is one of the most influential game franchises of all time. With such memorable protagonist’s, such as John Marston and Arthur Morgan, it’s no wonder why people fell in love with  Red Dead. Today we will be looking at the third installment in the series, and the prequel to Red Dead Redemption- Red Dead Redemption 2. With the game being nominated in the 2023 Steam Awards in the Labor of Love category. What better time than now to cover one of the best games of all time.

Details of Red Dead Redemption 2

Developer: Rockstar Games

Publisher: Rockstar Games

Game Series: Red Dead

Platform: PlayStation 4/5, Xbox One, Xbox Series S/X, PC, Steam Deck, & Stadia

Release Date: 26th October 2018

Age Rating: 18

Story of Red Dead Redemption 2

The story follows the Van Da Linde gang and its unwinding. Taking place shortly after the infamous Blackwater massacre, players take control of Arthur Morgan. The muscle of the group, and Dutch’s adopted son and right hand man. However, with increasing pressure from the law, and the Pinkertons as well as some betrayal from members of the gang, it starts unwinding.

Being pushed out of the loop by recent arrival, Micah, Arthur begins to question Dutch’s leadership more. With Dutch leaving John multiple times and other questionable actions. Arthur questions Dutch’s plan. Being pushed for time after his Tuberculosis diagnosis Arthur starts to attempt to make amends for his past. As well as make sure that the people he cares about are safe when he goes.

Analysis of Red Dead Redemption 2

The Open World

Rockstar, as always, went above and beyond in creating one of the best worlds in all of gaming. The characters that populate it all have their own routines and stuff to do. Much like GTA V, players can easily get lost in the world of Red Dead Redemption 2. Following NPCs around just to see the extent of the coding work done by the developers. Rockstar’s NPCs are a level above anyone else’s.

Honor System

Red Dead Redemption 2 measures your morality and ethics through the honor system mechanic. At times in the story, or inside missions, you will be faced with opportunity to either express good or bad ethics. Allowing Arthur to redeem himself and have a better ending, or for Arthur to be lost to the sins of his past and get the worse ending.

The Writing and Acting

The performances on display in the game are Oscar worthy. Dialogue and body language go as well together as burgers and fries. The game is nothing short of a masterpiece. Creativity must be in abundance at Rockstar as the developers seem to not be stopping anytime soon. As Red Dead Redemption 3 is rumored to already be in development.

Summary of Red Dead Redemption 2

Red Dead Redemption 2 is an iconic masterpiece. The gameplay, the gunplay, the writing, the acting- their all superb! The world Is one that feels real to an extent only Rockstar mange to create. With NPCs having their own lives and task which they undertake, much like GTA V. Bonding with your horse and fellow camp members will find yourself getting attached. Only to have that affection be used against you by the end of the game. You will cry, you will scream, you definitely must play this!

Overall Rating: 10 – Masterpiece!