Rockstar is once again asserting its dominance in the open-world gaming genre. After becoming a household name with the Grand Theft Auto series, the developer has shifted its focus to the Wild West. The result is Red Dead Redemption, a game that is many things but will likely be remembered as a significant leap forward and the best Western to hit the gaming scene yet.

In Red Dead Redemption, you step into the boots of John Marston, a former outlaw trying to leave his past behind while it relentlessly haunts him. This setup may seem cliché, but it serves as the foundation for a rich narrative. As you traverse this expansive sandbox straddling the Mexican border, you’ll encounter a fantastic cast of characters.

While the setting has changed, it’s clear that Rockstar’s signature style is at work. The presentation will feel familiar to anyone who has played a GTA game, from the lengthy conversations during rides to the next mission to the familiar menu blips. However, this is not just Grand Theft Auto set in the Wild West; the game has been thoughtfully expanded and adapted to its locale, resulting in a completely immersive experience packed with activities and locations to explore.

The game engine has been upgraded to meet the challenges of the Western setting, resulting in stunning visuals in motion. The horses look incredible, and when you see a tied-up victim being dragged, it can feel almost too realistic. You’ll be compelled to explore every inch of this breathtaking environment.

A few minor bugs and hiccups are a small price to pay for one of the best-looking games around, both artistically and technically. Rockstar has perfected the visuals, lighting, and animations to the point where simply riding across the countryside is entertaining. The audio quality matches the visuals, featuring top-notch voice acting and a soundtrack that captures the essence of the Western genre.

But there’s much more to discover than just rocks and cacti—there are countless activities to engage in. From traditional cowboy tasks like cattle herding and breaking mustangs to massive assaults and treasure hunting, Red Dead Redemption has it all. The main quest, filled with intriguing characters and missions, will likely take you around 20 hours to complete, but the multitude of side quests and distractions will make it hard to stay focused on just one thing. The sheer volume of activities ensures you won’t run out of things to do.

Rockstar gives you the freedom to choose your moral path, allowing you to decide whether to be a hero saving damsels in distress or to embrace a more nefarious lifestyle. Regardless of your choices, there’s fame and fortune to be gained. And rest assured, it’s all incredibly fun to play. Once you get the hang of the sometimes tricky horse controls, you’ll find a smooth and exhilarating experience. The variety of guns and explosives at your disposal, especially with the Dead Eye slow-mo feature, adds to the excitement. Whether you’re winning a duel or witnessing a bandit’s misfortune, the action is always entertaining.

The single-player experience alone justifies the price of admission, but it’s only the beginning. The game also offers an online mode that tests your skills in 16-player matches. You’ll find familiar game types, including team and free-for-all shootouts, as well as a capture-the-flag mode, which serves as decent distractions. The highlight is the free roam mode, which elevates the multiplayer experience. You can form a posse, enter adversarial games, or simply explore the vast countryside, participating in ambient challenges like hunting or assaulting gang hideouts. As you play, you’ll level up and unlock new character models, game modes, and horses, making it feel like a game unto itself.

There’s a level of detail in Red Dead Redemption that is rare in games of this scale. Despite a few visual hiccups and occasional bugs, this is one of the most complete gaming experiences available. Whether you’re seeking a compelling Western story or simply want to ride wild across the expansive countryside with friends, there’s something to love here.