What does the eye icon on the mini-map indicate during stealth?

The eye icon on the mini-map in Red Dead Redemption 2 is a crucial indicator during stealth gameplay. It represents the awareness level of enemies or NPCs (non-playable characters) in your vicinity. When you are sneaking or trying to remain undetected, the eye icon will appear as a small, white, half-circle shape on the mini-map. This icon fills up gradually as enemies or NPCs become more suspicious of your presence. Understanding how this mechanic works is essential for successfully executing stealth missions or avoiding unwanted confrontations.\n\nWhen the eye icon is empty or only partially filled, it means that enemies or NPCs are unaware of your presence. This is the ideal state for stealth, as it allows you to move freely without being detected. However, if the eye icon begins to fill up, it indicates that someone is becoming suspicious. This could be due to noise, movement, or being spotted in their line of sight. For example, if you are crouching in tall grass near a camp of enemies, the eye icon may start to fill if you move too quickly or make noise by stepping on twigs.\n\nIf the eye icon fills completely and turns red, it means you have been detected, and enemies will immediately become hostile. At this point, stealth is no longer an option, and you will need to either fight or flee. To avoid detection, it is important to stay in cover, move slowly, and use distractions like throwing rocks or using bait to divert attention. For instance, during the mission ''The Spines of America,'' where you need to infiltrate a guarded camp, using distractions can help you avoid filling the eye icon and maintain stealth.\n\nOne common challenge players face is managing the eye icon in areas with multiple enemies. In such situations, it is crucial to plan your movements carefully. Use the environment to your advantage by staying in shadows, behind objects, or in tall grass. Additionally, wearing appropriate clothing, such as the Legendary Panther Cloak, can reduce your visibility and make it harder for enemies to detect you. This is particularly useful in missions like ''The Fine Art of Conversation,'' where stealth is key to success.\n\nAnother important aspect of the eye icon is its connection to sound. Loud noises, such as gunshots or running, will cause the eye icon to fill rapidly. To minimize noise, always crouch when moving in stealth mode and avoid sprinting. If you need to take out an enemy silently, use a bow or throwing knives instead of firearms. For example, in the mission ''Pouring Forth Oil,'' using a bow to eliminate guards quietly will prevent the eye icon from filling and alerting others.\n\nIn summary, the eye icon on the mini-map is a vital tool for stealth gameplay in Red Dead Redemption 2. By keeping it empty or only partially filled, you can move undetected and complete objectives without engaging in combat. Use distractions, stay in cover, and move quietly to maintain stealth. Pay attention to the environment and enemy patrol patterns to avoid detection. With practice, you can master the art of stealth and make the most of this mechanic in your gameplay.