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