So my brother messaged me earlier today here is roughly how the dialogue went:
Brother: hey I'm getting red dead for the xbox, any objections?
Me: Isn't it also on the ps3? I'd rather get it for that because I prefer the ps3 controller.
Brother: really? the xbox version got better reviews. 
Me: Well from what I know there aren't any major difference, it is a great game either way.
Brother: look here. xbox is crisper and more shrubs! 
Me: Alright fine.. 
-End dialogue-
 
*First off I should say that I am very excited to finally be getting and being able to play this game, and my brother messaging me came as a big surprise!*
 
So...I knew something was wrong when he said, "xbox version got better reviews." Because I knew red dead is an amazing game regardless of platform, and the only reason I could think of was slightly different graphics. And from my brothers next message, I was right. So I just sort of gave up at the end because I didn't want to argue about it, but I started thinking about what I don't like about these system comparisons and here's what I came up with:
 
System comparisons are almost useless because really when you're looking at them, you're only judging the game on one aspect, the graphics. It's not like you're going to be sitting on the couch thinking "oh this game would look so much worse/better on the other system, just look at those shrubs." Instead, you're going to be playing the game... learning about the characters, doing stuff.. Sure you can stare at screenshots comparisons, but really what you're doing is seeing which screenshot looks better. It is very different actually being IN the game and seeing and playing the game the way it is meant to be seen and played. 
 
I feel I should say something about why I prefer the ps3 controller over xbox controller. I just find the ps3 more responsive and sensitive. I don't like how the xbox controller is shaped, I find the battery pack gets in the way of comfortably holding the controller, and also the triggers and buttons feel more stiff overall. Also the d-pad is much better on ps3 controller. This is just my personal preference, and with red dead redemption I knew I wouldn't be bothered with whatever graphical differences there were, and I greatly prefer the ps3 controller. 
 
In any case I am excited to get a chance to play this game and look forward to finding out what makes it such a great experience!

RDR on the PS3 isn't even in HD. I like the 360 controller more than the PS3 controller. If he has the option of getting it on 360 and he isn't gonna play multiplayer, he should get it for the 360. Of course, the experience is a major part of the game, and being a "graphics whore" is bad, but if you can have the improved graphics for the same price, why not? 
 
 If you could get a PC that could run something like Mass Effect on medium, and one that could run it on max for the same price, you'd still get the better one right?  
 
Getting the same gameplay for the same price is no justification for choosing the worse version.

Even though I don't really play MP in games, if a cross platform game offers it, I'll defer to the 360.  I just like the XBL service more when it comes to online and I know more people on XBL than PSN.  However, if it's single player, I usually stick with PS3.  Fortunately, there is no wrong answer really with cross-platform games unless one platform has some major bugs.

If he could get the superior version for the same price as the inferior version, then why shouldn't he?

"System comparisons are almost useless because really when you're looking at them, you're only judging the game on one aspect, the graphics."

I can see where you're coming from. Personally, I find the PS3 controller too uncomfortable. The position of the thumbsticks always cramps my hands after some time playing. If I had the choice between PS3 and 360, how confortable I feel with the gamepad would be a factor to take into account. What I wanted to point out with my post is that comparing both versions is not as useless as you may think. Bayonetta is an extreme example of what I mean, but generally speaking, multiplats run and look better on 360, while PS3 exclusives out-perform 360 exclusives. And I'm trying with all my willpower to avoid mentioning the PC... If you can get over the obstacle of the controller (or better yet, mod a PS360 controller for yourself :P), I guess you'll have an enjoyable experience, in terms of framerate and graphics, on the 360.