Generally, RPGs involve character progression through stats, and RDR really doesn’t have that. It’s an action adventure game with an emphasis on storytelling.
For an Action RPG, decision making, conversation options, and of course a skill trees are necessary. Basically you need to be able to shape your character to “play a role”.
Red Dead is just GTA with horses and a way better story. Calling it an RPG is a massive stretch.
What elements that you consider core to the genre is it missing?
Generally, RPGs involve character progression through stats, and RDR really doesn’t have that. It’s an action adventure game with an emphasis on storytelling.
For an Action RPG, decision making, conversation options, and of course a skill trees are necessary. Basically you need to be able to shape your character to “play a role”.