What Red Dead Redemption 2 Does Better Than Every Other Open-World Video Game

4. Traversal That Compliments The Story

Aside from ill-thought-out video games like Final Fantasy 15 and Dragon’s Dogma where you have to sprint long distances and look at your character’s backside as they repeatedly bend over to breathe, open-worlds are rarely a pain when getting from point A to B. Whether you're swinging too-and-fro as Spider-Man, or zipping between cars in GTA, traversal mostly always feels fun - and Red Dead 2 is no exception.

However, while it’s undoubtedly fun to make an old man throw a fit over seeing your sick skills, there are no repercussions to your showboating. Nor are there any ramifications other than being chased by the pigs and forced to restart for crushing hundreds of people’s ribs with the latest supercar that you stole.

Meanwhile, in Red Dead Redemption 2, traversal has consequences that compliment the story. Not only does it contribute to the game’s realism with your steed snapping its legs when you foolishly try to descend down a slippery slope, but your brashness also affects your Arthur as ignoring people in peril or accidentally steamrolling into someone’s mother fittingly dampens your honour.

In addition, the way you care for your lovable horse increases your bond and handling of it, and every ride with your crew on missions allows for engrossing stories while keeping the pace slow and immersive.