Red Dead Redemption 1 Or 2 - Which Is Better?

To settle the score on which game is truly better depends on player preference. Both games offer a similar story of redemption and both express the same message at the end.

While Red Dead Redemption offers a more original experience, Red Dead Redemption 2 takes those elements and presents them in a more realistic and fleshed out manner.

In a way, RDR2 takes all of the elements of the previous game and makes them better. The unfortunate reality is that, despite setting the groundwork for the second game, RDR seems more like a parody upon reflection. The key difference that decides whether or not the player will enjoy one game more than the other is the tone.

Those looking for a gaming experience straight out of the movie theatre should lean towards Red Dead Redemption while those wanting a more immersive experience will prefer Red Dead Redemption 2.

Despite its faults, Red Dead Redemption set out to adapt the legendary Hollywood westerns to video game format. The movie-like formula helped craft John Marston into one of gaming's favourite protagonists. While the supporting cast is less fleshed out, they all have a clear role to play within the narrative.

Red Dead Redemption 2 unfortunately suffered due to a derivative narrative and by forcing dumb character decisions for the sake of plot. The tired old tale of Rockstar's "getting too old for this" protagonist detracts from the otherwise excellent experience. The actions of John, Dutch, and Micah make towards the end of the story seem rushed and out of place. Those character decisions make even less sense when viewing both games as a whole.

Red Dead Redemption Wins