My parents were oddly strict about me getting GTAIV so while I was waiting for my first proper GTA experience I managed to wrangle them into line just in time for Red Dead's release.

Because this was my first time getting my hand's on a 18+ rated Rockstar game I think the impact of it was tenfold for me. It just had everything I wanted as a spotty teen. A great setting, quality shooting mechanics and interesting mission design.

Throw in a fantastic story and you've got yourself a masterpiece.