What should I do if my game crashes during a mission?

If your game crashes during a mission in Red Dead Redemption 2, it can be frustrating, but there are several steps you can take to resolve the issue. First, ensure your game and system are up to date. Rockstar Games frequently releases patches to fix bugs and improve performance. Check for updates on your platform (PC, PlayStation, or Xbox) and install any available updates for the game and your system software.\n\nNext, verify the integrity of your game files if you''re playing on PC. On Steam, right-click Red Dead Redemption 2 in your library, select Properties, go to the Local Files tab, and click Verify Integrity of Game Files. On the Rockstar Games Launcher, click the game, then Settings, and select Verify Integrity. This process ensures no corrupted files are causing the crash.\n\nIf the crash persists, try lowering your graphics settings. High settings can strain your hardware, especially during mission sequences with intense visuals or large crowds. On PC, go to the Graphics Settings menu and reduce options like Texture Quality, Shadow Quality, and Lighting Quality. On consoles, ensure your system is well-ventilated and not overheating, as this can cause crashes.\n\nAnother common cause of crashes is conflicting mods or third-party software. If you’ve installed mods, temporarily remove them to see if the issue resolves. Similarly, close background applications like overlays (Discord, Steam, etc.) or recording software, as these can interfere with the game’s performance.\n\nIf the crash occurs at a specific point in a mission, try replaying the mission from an earlier save. Use the Story menu to restart the mission or load a previous save file. This can help bypass any corrupted mission triggers or scripting errors. For example, if the game crashes during the mission ''A Quiet Time'' in Valentine, restarting the mission might resolve the issue.\n\nFor console players, clearing the cache can help. On PlayStation, turn off the console, unplug it for 30 seconds, then restart. On Xbox, hold the power button for 10 seconds to perform a hard reset. This clears temporary data that might be causing the crash.\n\nIf none of these steps work, consider reinstalling the game. Backup your save files first, as reinstalling will delete local data. On PC, save files are typically located in the Documents\Rockstar Games\Red Dead Redemption 2\Profiles folder. On consoles, save files are usually stored in the cloud or on the system’s hard drive.\n\nFinally, if the issue persists, contact Rockstar Support. Provide details about the crash, including the mission name, platform, and any error messages. They may have additional troubleshooting steps or be aware of a specific bug affecting your situation.\n\nTo prevent future crashes, avoid overloading your system with too many background tasks, keep your drivers updated, and regularly save your progress. Use manual saves at camp or in towns like Saint Denis or Valentine to ensure you don’t lose progress if a crash occurs. By following these steps, you can minimize disruptions and enjoy a smoother gameplay experience.