How can I avoid the glitch where the game crashes during the oil wagon mission?

The oil wagon mission in Red Dead Redemption 2, officially titled ''Pouring Forth Oil,'' is a critical story mission in Chapter 2 where Arthur and John steal an oil wagon from Cornwall Kerosene and Tar. However, many players have reported encountering a glitch where the game crashes during this mission, often when approaching the wagon or during the escape sequence. To avoid this issue, follow these detailed steps and strategies.\n\nFirst, ensure your game is fully updated. Rockstar Games frequently releases patches to fix bugs and glitches, so having the latest version of the game is crucial. If you''re playing on a console, check for updates in the system settings. For PC players, verify the game files through the Rockstar Games Launcher or Steam to ensure no corrupted files are causing the crash.\n\nBefore starting the mission, clear your game cache. On consoles, this can be done by fully powering off the system and unplugging it for a few minutes. On PC, delete the local profile settings file (located in the Documents/Rockstar Games/Red Dead Redemption 2/Settings folder) to reset cached data. This can help prevent crashes caused by corrupted temporary files.\n\nDuring the mission, avoid triggering unnecessary actions that could overload the game engine. For example, do not engage in random encounters or side activities while en route to the oil wagon. Stick to the mission path and avoid exploring off-road areas, as this can sometimes cause instability. Additionally, limit the use of explosives or excessive gunfire, as these actions can strain the game''s physics engine.\n\nIf the crash occurs during the escape sequence, try a different approach. Instead of following the default route, take an alternative path to avoid potential triggers for the glitch. For example, after stealing the wagon, head northeast toward the train tracks instead of following the road. This can sometimes bypass the issue entirely.\n\nAnother common cause of crashes is hardware limitations. If you''re playing on an older console or a PC with lower specifications, reduce the game''s graphical settings. Lower the resolution, disable advanced graphics options like volumetric lighting, and reduce the draw distance. This can help stabilize performance during demanding missions like the oil wagon heist.\n\nFinally, if the glitch persists, consider restarting the mission from a previous save. Sometimes, reloading the game can resolve temporary issues. Make sure to save your progress manually before starting the mission to avoid losing significant gameplay time. If all else fails, contact Rockstar Support for assistance, as they may have additional troubleshooting steps or patches to address the issue.\n\nBy following these steps, you can minimize the risk of encountering the oil wagon mission crash glitch and enjoy a smoother gameplay experience in Red Dead Redemption 2.