What occurred to me after a few hours into this game was that I became emotionally connected to it in very real ways. Its ability to have me embody the character is remarkable. This embodiment doesn't happen right away, but it will happen. The graphics of this game deserve their own review, but it's enough to say that you will find yourself shaking your head at the beauty of this game.
The realism and it's connection to the folklore of the lawless West will impress anyone with a taste for nostalgia and when the game tells you that you've reached a new level of connection with your horse - it's totally believable. I've been playing for a while and can't honestly imagine giving this game up for years to come. Kudos to Rockstar for making a truly legendary experience.