Red Dead Redemption - 95 (Xbox 360, 96 Reviews)
Its sequel expectedly takes the lion's share of attention for improving on an already stellar foundation, but the original
Red Dead Redemption still stands as
one of Rockstar's best games. Much of the game's acclaim came from the intricate open-world game design, and how the western setting was used to fit it.
Taking on the role of John Marston, the player sets out on a gritty wild-western story that sees the former outlaw get roped back into his life of crime. Along the way, players could shape John's personality and progression through the world through a morality system that affected how characters would interact with him.
Red Dead Redemption II - 97 (PlayStation 4, 99 Reviews)
One of the biggest landmark games in recent years, Rockstar's
Red Dead Redemption II was a massive step forward both in terms of open-world gameplay and the dynamic systems that comprise it. Though a sequel in name, the narrative is a true prequel.
This time, players follow protagonist Arthur Morgan and his gang - including the aforementioned Marston - as they deal with the dying age of the "western outlaw." Its world is huge with great mechanical depth to it, with many of the dynamic interactions to be had with characters and changing environmental effects combining for one of the most immersive wild-west games to date.