The American Southwest is muse to many shows, movies, and games. The allure of the Wild West, its outlaws and bandits, saloons and stagecoaches, the guns and more guns, give a perfect setting for a lone cowboy to grapple with morality and loyalty. We are introduced to John Marston in media res, he has lived a life up to start of the game, and is now faced with the consequences of that life. Now you control what he does, who he saves, who he doesn’t. But, the story progresses linearly and you can’t change the ending. And although I found it absolutely devastating, I think it’s fitting. The gameplay is not extraordinary, and some missions are absolutely frustrating, but the story is what really counts. And the soundtrack, best soundtrack ever. I personally enjoy playing the game casually after John’s final escapades in Mexico; riding horsey, gambling, hunting, picking flowers, there is a decent amount to do in the world.
