What’s the best way to level up Ability Cards for PvP?

Leveling up Ability Cards in Red Dead Redemption 2 (RDR2) for PvP is a crucial step to gaining an edge in competitive gameplay. Ability Cards are special perks that enhance your character’s combat effectiveness, and they are divided into four categories: Dead Eye, Combat, Recovery, and Passive. To maximize their potential, you need to level them up, which requires XP and in-game currency. Here’s a detailed guide on how to efficiently level up your Ability Cards for PvP.\n\nFirst, understand the mechanics of Ability Cards. Each card has three tiers: Level 1, Level 2, and Level 3. Upgrading a card requires XP earned through gameplay and a significant amount of in-game cash. For example, upgrading from Level 1 to Level 2 costs $350 and 500 XP, while Level 2 to Level 3 costs $500 and 800 XP. Focus on cards that suit your playstyle, such as Paint It Black for precision shooting or Slow and Steady for tanking damage.\n\nTo efficiently level up Ability Cards, prioritize PvP modes like Showdown Series or Takeover Series. These modes offer high XP rewards for kills, assists, and objectives. For example, in the Shootout mode, focus on using your chosen Ability Card actively. If you’re using Slippery Bastard, which reduces enemy accuracy, use it frequently to gain XP for the card. The more you use the card, the faster it levels up.\n\nAnother effective method is to combine PvP with PvE activities. Free Roam events like Fishing Challenges or Master Archer can provide XP and cash, which you can reinvest into your Ability Cards. Additionally, completing daily challenges and story missions on higher difficulty settings can yield substantial rewards. For example, replaying the mission ‘Banking, The Old American Art’ on Hardcore mode can net you $200 and 500 XP, which can be used to upgrade your cards.\n\nGrinding XP in Free Roam is also a viable strategy. Hunt legendary animals or complete bounties to earn XP and cash. For instance, hunting the Legendary Bear near Wallace Station can reward you with valuable pelts and XP. Use this method to accumulate resources while passively leveling up your Ability Cards.\n\nA common challenge is the high cost of upgrading Ability Cards. To mitigate this, focus on earning cash through efficient gameplay. Sell valuable items like gold bars, jewelry, or rare pelts to fences. For example, the Rhodes Fence is a reliable location to sell stolen goods. Additionally, avoid spending money on unnecessary items like cosmetics until your Ability Cards are fully upgraded.\n\nFinally, consider teaming up with other players in Posse Versus or Free Roam missions. Cooperative gameplay not only makes leveling up more enjoyable but also increases your chances of success, leading to higher XP and cash rewards. For example, completing a Posse Versus mission like ‘Railroad Baron’ can reward you with 300 XP and $50, which can be used to upgrade your cards.\n\nIn summary, leveling up Ability Cards for PvP requires a combination of PvP and PvE activities, efficient resource management, and strategic gameplay. Focus on using your chosen cards actively, prioritize high-reward activities, and avoid unnecessary expenses. With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to dominating the PvP arena in Red Dead Redemption 2.