What are the best ways to maximize Arthur’s abilities for the ending?

To maximize Arthur’s abilities for the ending in Red Dead Redemption 2, you need to focus on improving his core stats, upgrading equipment, and making strategic choices throughout the game. Arthur’s health, stamina, and Dead Eye are critical for surviving the intense final missions. Start by completing challenges, hunting for crafting materials, and maintaining high honor to unlock the best possible ending.\n\nFirst, prioritize upgrading Arthur’s health, stamina, and Dead Eye. Health can be increased by completing challenges like Herbalist or by consuming tonics and cooked meats. Stamina is improved by running, swimming, or rowing frequently. Dead Eye can be leveled up by completing story missions, hunting, and using Dead Eye in combat. For example, hunting legendary animals like the Legendary Buck in Big Valley will grant you trinkets that boost Dead Eye experience gain.\n\nNext, focus on crafting and upgrading Arthur’s equipment. Visit the Trapper and Fence to craft satchels, holsters, and trinkets. The Legend of the East Satchel, for instance, allows you to carry 99 of each item, which is invaluable for stocking up on tonics and ammunition. Crafting potent health tonics, snake oil, and other consumables will ensure you’re prepared for tough battles. Additionally, upgrade your weapons at gunsmiths in towns like Valentine or Saint Denis to improve accuracy and damage.\n\nMaintaining high honor is crucial for unlocking the best ending. Help strangers, donate to camp funds, and avoid unnecessary violence to increase your honor level. High honor not only affects the ending but also unlocks discounts at shops and better interactions with NPCs. For example, helping the blind beggar near Valentine or rescuing strangers from ambushes will boost your honor significantly.\n\nCompleting side missions and challenges is another way to maximize Arthur’s abilities. Stranger missions like helping Charlotte Balfour in Roanoke Ridge or assisting Hamish Sinclair near O’Creagh’s Run provide valuable rewards and character development. Challenges like Sharpshooter or Survivalist will improve your combat and survival skills, making Arthur more effective in the final missions.\n\nFinally, prepare for the ending by stocking up on supplies and saving frequently. The final chapters are intense, and having a full inventory of tonics, ammunition, and food will make a significant difference. Save your game before major story missions to avoid losing progress. For example, before starting the mission ‘Red Dead Redemption’ in Chapter 6, ensure you have everything you need for the final showdown.\n\nIn summary, maximizing Arthur’s abilities for the ending involves improving his core stats, upgrading equipment, maintaining high honor, completing challenges, and preparing thoroughly. By following these steps, you’ll ensure Arthur is at his best for the emotional and action-packed conclusion of Red Dead Redemption 2.