Red Dead Redemption 2: PS4 Review

Red Dead Redemption 2: PS4 Review

Released by Rockstar Games
Platform: PS4

The third Red Dead game is already massive.

Massive in sales, massive in actual gameplay, and thanks to Dan Houser, massive in controversy, after he revealed "crunch" teams were working upto 100 hours a week to get it all done, prompting discussions about gaming industry working conditions.

When all is said and done, and regardless of right or wrong, it cannot be denied that what Rockstar has committed to the small screen in this game is truly incredible, game-changing, bar-raising kind of stuff.

You are Arthur Morgan, outlaw and member of the Van der Linde gang, who finds himself in 1899 after a botched heist. Hiding out and then trying to escape, it's up to you to negotiate the treacherous world within, and potential allies as you take part in heists, hunting and hollering utter chaos as the story unfolds.

To say Red Dead Redemption 2 is a cinematic game is an understatement.

It's clear every detail has been pored over repeatedly in setting this game on the right path, and whether that's right or wrong, given what was reported, it's hard to deny that this game has strived for perfection throughout.

Early visuals like a snowstorm, and the interaction of people within are just mind-blowingly impressive. There's no chance to run in this, and the system doesn't let you cheat as you try to make your way through; snowy crevices and peaks are stunning as well. Just don't try walking your horse over one, because the creatures won't let you do it.

There are plenty of controls in place for Arthur as well - he'll need to be fed, kept stamina up and also kept healthy. It's this kind of nannying, which while realistic to the game, reminds you that it's also a bit of a chore (much like Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas made you keep your protagonist alive) and does detract from simply getting on with the game.

There's an argument realism can be taken too far, but in making this as real as possible, this is what Rockstar have compelled you to do. And there are way too many controls to remember when necessary, so there's an argument it's all been over-complicated in some ways - which sounds like lunacy when you look at the scale of what's been achieved.

Visually, the game impresses on every level, from cinematics that feel authentic to switching cameras on scenes that makes you feel like you're in a Sergio Leone film, there's a lot to marvel in here.

The story's enjoyable too, and while the constant maintenance of your character may occasionally take you out of the action, it's fair to say that Red Dead Redemption 2 is a pinnacle of what gaming can do.

Rockstar Games have built on the success of previous titles like Grand Theft Auto and created an almost video game cinema experience that will continue to impress for years to come, and be emulated by others desperate to repeat their success.