Red Dead Redemption 2: 9 Reasons It's Not Game Of The Year 2018

So painfully close.

By Scott Tailford /

Rockstar

At this stage, you know EXACTLY what Red Dead Redemption 2 is, though judging by tips and tricks videos outnumber story discussions a good ten to one across the board, it seems millions of us are focusing on the world over the narrative.

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And no wonder. Rockstar's expanded look at the Old West is a remarkable achievement, and its best moments come from picking a direction to see what you can uncover. Stranger missions, dynamic interactions with NPCs, hunting, secret questlines etc. - it's easy to be overwhelmed, though its ludicrously freeform, busywork nature doesn't make for the most focused experience.

Rather, the unique nature of Rockstar as a studio means they slaved over Red Dead 2 for a staggering eight years, comprising a team of thousands, with Sam and Dan Houser seemingly never saying no to any idea that was put forward.

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Red Dead Redemption 2 is therefore a hulking, monolithic mass of pure content. The Housers desperately needed an editor to refine its biggest takeaway moments, because there is plenty to love... it's just buried, and once you take a step back and look at everything at once, there's a lot to unpack.

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Note: Full main story spoilers inside.