Red Dead Redemption First-Hand Preview

Starting on a campsite on the outskirts of a town, John saddles up his trusty horse (which can be reclaimed here if you manage to lose him) and hits the dusty trail to town. It doesn’t take long before a seemingly troubled man flags you down to save him from a wolf attack, though no sooner have you dismounted and rid him of his wolf problem, the wily dog reveals himself to be a horse thief as he makes for the horizon on your faithful steed. Thankfully your horse doesn’t take kindly to this hustle and throws the varmint clean to the ground where you have the option of dishing out some good old-fashioned justice with your six-shooter, or lassoing him into custody and riding him into town to face the sheriff.

Rockstar's propriety Euphoria engine does a splendid job with both animals and environments.

This encounter, though scripted, demonstrates some of the key features Rockstar San Diego have introduced to the game to bring the Wild West to life – namely the procedural events, the fame and honour system, the advanced ecology system. The procedural events the player encounters range from low-level personal encounters such as protecting stage coaches from bandits, to interrupting kangaroo court executions, with the choice always residing with the player.

Your choices in these events will have ramifications too, seen in the fame and honour system. As you begin to arrest (or gun) your way through town, word will spread of your deeds and you will become famous (or infamous), opening up new opportunities as townsfolk approach you with requests. Earning a reputation as an honourable man will lead to the law men taking your side in a dispute, and you will have the full cooperation of the townsfolk, including some attractive discounts from shop keepers.

Who need infra-red goggles and diazapam to snipe?

Of course earning a reputation as the fastest gun in the West is an invitation for any would-be gunslinger to challenge you to a duel. Lone gunmen can of course choose the dishonourable path, raising your wanted level forcing you to contend with posses hunting you down for your misdeeds. Choosing this lifestyle has its advantages however, where the only thing weighed down more than your conscience will be your pockets.