In the words of the illustrious speaker (and protagonist) John Marston, “If this is the future, then God help us all.”  It’s ironic that this game takes place in the past, yet playable character Marston isn’t looking forward in time with hope or security.  But Red Dead Redemption gives us just that.  The game itself though is more than good enough to ride into the sunset.

Red Dead Redemption has been one of a few recent games that has lived up to its hype.  Hailed as the next big Rockstar production, this title includes all of the randomness and side-questing game play as the Grand Theft Auto series with the option of having a moral and ethical variant to the decision making process.  Oh, it’s easy to slip into the mantra of “I’m going to kill that guy for no reason other than my right finger is sentimentally missing the RT button,” but this game aims to make you feel socially responsible for your actions.

The weapons features are all right; however, quick cycling through your many weapons can leave you irritated.  Ammo needs are sometimes met, sometimes not.  Looting bodies for ammo and money is quick and painless; one can actually make a good amount of money quickly if you catch a whole gang hanging out within buckshot.

Red Dead Redemption does employ a cover system, but it’s easy to maneuver around and pop off shots within a reasonable time.  At times, depending on your Dead Eye meter, you can zerg a group of five or six pistoleros, but I highly suggest saving this until you are familiar with the set-up.

If story is important, this title can offer that too. Although the ending may be a bit too scripted (blame that on my English degree), I can’t but help feel for characters involved.  To be completely honest, I didn’t think Rockstar could pull off a game where I could feel sympathetic for the playable character.  Bravo Rockstar.  Bravo.

Red Dead Redemption, being the highest selling Xbox 360 title out this year, is definitely a must-play.  Rent it or buy it.  Especially if you’ve played through Rockstar titles in the past, this one won’t leave you wanting.  And if you haven’t played a Rockstar title yet, quit your subscription to Hello Kitty: Island Adventure and grow a set.