Red Dead Redemption 2

Our analysis

Visually it is one of the best-looking games around, with exceptional graphics and lighting that set a high bar for the genre. The main technical knock is that HDR is effectively broken on PS4, undercutting an otherwise stunning presentation. Still regarded as a remarkable showcase despite that flaw.

Our analysis

A certified masterpiece and one of the most impressive pieces of media ever made, anchored by a grounded, accessible story about an outlaw gang resisting a changing America and a superbly cast Arthur Morgan. The early hours can drag with tedious hunting and grinding, and the controls remain a frustration, especially the awkward horse steering and waypoint system worsened on PC. Even so, the writing and atmosphere elevate it far above typical games.

Our analysis

Focused on the PC port, the game is fantastic with mouse and keyboard, which makes gunfights vastly superior to the controller and shines especially in first person, with a gorgeous, sprawling open world to roam freely. However, it is badly broken at launch, with a 150GB install, poor optimization that hogs resources even on high-end hardware, frequent crashes, and clunky menus that fight the mouse. Worth buying once Rockstar fixes it, but hold off for now given how many players cannot even get it running.

Our analysis

A masterpiece of narrative, music, and cinematography that weaves a deeply thematic tale of decay and inevitability, anchored by exceptional writing for Arthur Morgan and Dutch. The open world is the most beautiful ever crafted, though it feels static and consequence-free. It is held back by dated, clunky controls, weak shooting, and serious pacing problems in its later chapters and epilogues, yet remains one of the most moving experiences in gaming.

Our analysis

A meticulously crafted, beautiful open world that earns a solid 9 out of 10 and a wholehearted recommendation for Western and open-world fans. The living, breathing world, deep emotional arc of Arthur Morgan, and standout Dead Eye combat are highlights, with a satisfying and moving story. Some shadow systems like cores and outfits feel underbaked, and the honor and bounty systems could use refinement, but none of it undercuts the overall excellence.

Our analysis

The PC version is the definitive way to play, with sharper draw distances, stronger lighting, higher-res textures, and most importantly 60fps-plus frame rates that make it feel and play far better. The slow-paced character study of Arthur Morgan and the declining Wild West is a fascinating, believable, and ultimately satisfying journey worth recommending. The caveat is launch instability and optimization complaints on some PCs, plus the mandatory Rockstar launcher and Social Club login.

Our analysis

A masterful, deeply immersive open-world Western with stunning visuals, exceptional voice acting, and an unforgettable soundtrack that anchors a giant living world. The narrative and characters are the standout, with hours of depth that keep rewarding you well past the 50-hour mark. The aiming and overall controls are infuriating, and the early pacing is slow, but the experience only gets better the further you ride.

Our analysis

A beautifully realised but self-indulgent Rockstar sandbox where the world and its richly written gang are the genuine highlights. Story missions are formulaic, yelling NPCs through rigidly scripted sequences that gut the freedom of free roam, and clunky physics make even walking a chore. Much of what you actually do amounts to long horse rides into token shootouts, leaving the spectacular detail impressive in effort more than substance.

Our analysis

A masterclass that improves on the original in nearly every way, with world-class graphics, animation, and attention to detail plus a strong protagonist in Arthur Morgan. The immersion is extraordinary, though it sometimes goes too far with slow looting, mission rigidity, and the frustrating lack of proper fast travel. Small annoyances stack up, but it remains an exceptional, content-rich experience well worth buying.

Our analysis

A remarkable achievement that tests the boundaries of interactive immersion, pairing breathtaking visuals and lighting with a slow, deliberate pace that fits its setting. The movable camp, honor system, and constant random events make the world feel alive and responsive to your choices. Numerous survival restrictions and limited fast travel can feel cumbersome, but they deepen your connection to Arthur and the era rather than spoiling the experience.