Much like Grand Theft Auto IV, Red Dead Redemption will employ a cover system in its combat. Four new screenshots show Redemption protagonist John Marston hiding behind cover like the coward he is.

Another feature of the game was revealed in these shots as well: additional playable characters. "From time to time, Marston is joined by allies who help him on his mission," notes the caption on one of the pictures. The graybeard lawman we saw in the trailers - "Marshall Johnson" - is one such ally. Redemption's predecessor, Red Dead Revolver, bounced between different characters as well so no big surprise there.

Redemption hits the PS3 and Xbox 360 on April 27th.