The first and only time I played through Red Dead Redemption's story was about ten years ago, back on the Xbox 360, and now, with the recent remaster/port for the Switch, I figured it would be the perfect time to revisit John Marston's journey.
Even after so many years since its original release, it's impressive how this game continues to outclass many current titles. The narrative and the setting keep a strength and an identity all their own, which still make this Rockstar work a truly unique experience.
John Marston's story remains the standout element, accompanied by memorable characters who help lend emotional weight to every moment of the journey. The missions are varied and well structured, and the world offers plenty of side activities that help reinforce the sense of freedom and immersion.
The portrait of the Old West is painted with remarkable care, showing a world marked by injustice, by the absence of law, and by the constant fight for survival. That context gives the game a mature, absorbing atmosphere that remains extremely effective even today.
The soundtrack is another major highlight, helping to build unforgettable moments throughout the adventure while reinforcing the work's emotional identity. Visually, this port doesn't drastically change the original experience, but it introduces subtle improvements that help make the gameplay more pleasant without losing the game's essence.
Red Dead Redemption remains, above all, a timeless work of art — an experience that hasn't lost impact over the years and still stands as one of the best examples of narrative in video games.
out of 10
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Game Red Dead Redemption Released 2023 Available on PlayStation 3 · Xbox 360 · PlayStation 4 · Nintendo Switch · PC Reviewed on Nintendo Switch |  Cover: IGDB |
| PL | Pedro Lopes Writer · Portugal |
A games writer from Portugal running on a highly irresponsible amount of coffee — his blood type is officially "espresso". He has been a content creator at Lisbon Games Week, a jury member at Over & Out ’25 and an attendee of DevGAMM Lisbon 2025 (mostly for the free coffee). He has a Pac-Man tattoo on his finger, which contractually obliges him to chase ghosts forever.