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”.
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.
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?
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”.
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.