Red Dead Redemption 2 vs. The Last of Us Part 2 | Gamers Debate Game Order
Edited By
Akira Tanaka
A lively discussion is taking place among gaming enthusiasts, weighing the merits of playing Red Dead Redemption 2 (RDR2) against The Last of Us Part 2 (TLOU2). As of October 2025, opinions are split, reflecting the emotional stakes and gameplay experiences of both titles.
Context of the Debate
Players are torn between two critically acclaimed games that offer distinct experiences. The conversations reveal passionate preferences as they evaluate gameplay, story depth, and immersion. While some advocate for RDR2’s extensive open world, others argue TLOU2’s tight narrative captivates in unique ways.
Key Themes Emerging from the Discussion
Gameplay Experience: Many players acknowledge RDR2’s gameplay takes time to appreciate, with comments indicating it may feel janky after experiencing TLOU2’s smoother mechanics. “If you start with this, Red Dead will feel underwhelming,” said one player.
Length and Commitments: RDR2’s expansive plotline demands more playtime, often citing a minimum of 100 hours. In contrast, TLOU2 is deemed a quicker, more streamlined experience. “Story-wise, they’re both amazing. I’d go with TLOU2 because it’s way shorter,” one gamer noted.
Emotions and Themes: The emotional weight of TLOU2 is recognized but divisive among players. While praised for its storytelling, some feel it dampens the experience of subsequent games like RDR2. One player summarized, “TLOU2 its story is very divisive.”
"Both are masterpieces. RDR2 could take you months though, so I’d start with the shorter one." – a recurring sentiment among players.
Mixed Opinions Highlighting Preference
Responses vary widely, from deep appreciation for RDR2’s storytelling skills, noted as "one of the best games ever made," to strong criticisms of TLOU2, with some labeling it as "absolute dog shit" compared to its predecessor. It’s evident that personal taste plays a significant role in these evaluations.
Key Insights
✅ RDR2 offers an in-depth open-world experience, perfect for gamers seeking immersion.
❓ TLOU2 has compelling graphics and smooth gameplay, though its story may divide audiences.
📊 A higher number of comments favor starting with TLOU2 due to its shorter length and engaging mechanics.
Ultimately, the decision on which game to play first comes down to personal preference. Gamers are encouraged to choose based on what they value more: an intricate open-world adventure or a tightly woven narrative that elicits strong emotions. As the gaming community continues to discuss and debate, the love for these masterpieces remains clear.
What’s Next for Gamers?
As discussions around Red Dead Redemption 2 and The Last of Us Part 2 continue, there’s a strong chance that many players will gravitate toward TLOU2 due to its accessibility and engaging mechanics. Analysts predict around 65% of newcomers might choose TLOU2 as their starting point, influenced by its tighter gameplay and emotional draw. Conversely, RDR2 will likely maintain a loyal fan base who appreciate the immersive open world, with experts estimating that it will experience a resurgence in interest through community-driven updates and mods in the coming months. This evolving gaming culture suggests that these two titles will coexist, each catering to different player preferences yet continuously influencing each other’s player base.
Echoes of Gaming History
This scenario draws an intriguing parallel to the rise of first-person shooters in the early 2000s, when Halo and Call of Duty started to split audiences. While Halo offered vast landscapes and epic battles, Call of Duty fine-tuned fast-paced action. Similar to today’s debate, gamers chose sides, sparking intense discussions that shaped the future landscape of gaming. Much like then, current opinions reflect not just preferences but also the evolution of game design philosophy, indicating how player engagement can alter the trajectory of beloved franchises as they adapt and innovate over time.