What’s the fastest way to earn money in RDR2’s early game?

Earning money quickly in Red Dead Redemption 2’s early game requires a mix of exploration, resourcefulness, and understanding the game’s mechanics. The early chapters of the game limit your access to high-paying activities, but there are still several reliable methods to build your wealth. Focus on hunting, looting, treasure hunting, and completing side missions to maximize your earnings.\n\nOne of the fastest ways to earn money early is through hunting and selling animal pelts. Animals like deer, elk, and bears provide high-quality pelts that can be sold to butchers in towns like Valentine or Strawberry. Use a rifle or bow with improved arrows to ensure clean kills, as damaged pelts sell for less. For example, a perfect deer pelt can fetch around $10, while a perfect bear pelt can sell for $20 or more. Always skin animals after killing them to maximize your profits.\n\nLooting is another effective method. After gunfights with enemies, search their bodies for valuables like jewelry, cash, and consumables. Gang hideouts, such as Six Point Cabin or Hanging Dog Ranch, are excellent locations for looting. These areas often contain lockboxes with money and items like gold bars, which can be sold for $500 each. Be cautious, as these hideouts are heavily guarded, so approach with a good weapon and plenty of ammunition.\n\nTreasure hunting is a lucrative activity that can yield thousands of dollars early in the game. Start by finding treasure maps, which can be obtained from random encounters or purchased from strangers. For example, the Jack Hall Gang treasure map, found near Flatneck Station, leads to a series of clues that eventually reward you with gold bars worth $500 each. Follow the map’s hints carefully, and use your in-game map to mark locations for easier navigation.\n\nCompleting side missions and challenges also provides a steady income. Stranger missions, marked by white icons on the map, often reward you with cash and unique items. For example, the mission ‘The Noblest of Men, and a Woman’ introduces you to famous gunslingers and rewards you with valuable weapons. Additionally, challenges like Herbalist or Hunter can be completed for small cash rewards and unlock better equipment over time.\n\nFinally, consider robbing trains or stagecoaches for quick cash. Trains can be boarded at stations like Rhodes or Valentine, and passengers often carry valuables. Use a bandana to hide your identity and avoid high bounties. Stagecoaches, found on roads between towns, can also be robbed for cash and items. Be prepared to flee quickly, as lawmen will pursue you after committing crimes.\n\nTo maximize your earnings, always prioritize high-value items like gold bars, jewelry, and perfect pelts. Sell these items to fences, found in towns like Emerald Ranch or Saint Denis, as they offer better prices for stolen goods. Additionally, avoid spending money on unnecessary items early in the game, such as fancy clothing or expensive weapons. Focus on building your savings to unlock better opportunities later.\n\nIn summary, the fastest way to earn money in RDR2’s early game involves a combination of hunting, looting, treasure hunting, and completing side missions. By focusing on high-value activities and managing your resources wisely, you can quickly build a substantial fortune to support your adventures in the Wild West.