What’s the best way to save before a stranger mission?

Saving your progress before starting a stranger mission in Red Dead Redemption 2 is a smart way to ensure you can retry or explore different outcomes without losing progress. The game features an autosave system, but relying on manual saves gives you more control. To save manually, open the pause menu by pressing the Options button on PlayStation or the Menu button on Xbox. Navigate to the Story tab and select Save Game. Choose an empty slot or overwrite an existing save file. This creates a checkpoint you can return to if something goes wrong during the mission.\n\nStranger missions are optional side quests marked by white icons on the map, such as a question mark or a unique character symbol. These missions often have branching outcomes or moral choices, so saving beforehand allows you to experiment with different decisions. For example, in the mission ''The Smell of the Grease Paint,'' you can choose to help or confront the circus performers. Saving before starting ensures you can explore both paths without replaying the entire mission.\n\nOne common challenge is forgetting to save before a mission, especially if you''re caught up in exploring the open world. To avoid this, make it a habit to save whenever you encounter a stranger mission icon. If you''re unsure whether a mission is a stranger mission, check the map for white icons or listen for NPCs calling out to you. For instance, in Valentine, you might hear a man shouting for help near the saloon, which triggers the mission ''The Noblest of Men, and a Woman.''\n\nAnother tip is to save in a safe location before approaching the mission. Some stranger missions can lead to unexpected combat or scripted events, so saving in a nearby town or camp ensures you''re prepared. For example, before starting ''The Widow of Willard''s Rest'' near Annesburg, save at the Annesburg camp or a nearby inn. This way, if the mission goes awry, you can reload without losing progress on other tasks.\n\nGame mechanics also play a role in saving effectively. Red Dead Redemption 2 has a limited number of manual save slots, so manage them wisely. Use descriptive names for your saves, such as ''Before Stranger Mission - Valentine,'' to keep track of your progress. Additionally, the game autosaves after major events, but these saves can overwrite your manual saves if you''re not careful. Always double-check your save slots before starting a mission.\n\nFor new players, it''s important to understand that some stranger missions are time-sensitive or tied to specific chapters. For example, the mission ''The Veteran'' in Chapter 6 requires you to interact with Hamish Sinclair at O''Creagh''s Run. If you miss this mission, you won''t be able to complete it later. Saving before these missions ensures you don''t miss out on unique content or rewards.\n\nExperienced players can use manual saves to optimize their gameplay. For instance, if you''re aiming for 100% completion, saving before a mission allows you to retry for better outcomes or collectibles. Some missions, like ''The American Inferno, Burnt Out,'' involve finding rare items or achieving specific objectives. Saving beforehand gives you the flexibility to experiment without penalty.\n\nIn summary, the best way to save before a stranger mission is to manually save in a safe location, use descriptive save names, and manage your save slots effectively. This approach ensures you can explore different outcomes, avoid losing progress, and maximize your enjoyment of the game. Always be mindful of time-sensitive missions and use manual saves to complement the autosave system.\n\nPractical tips: Save before approaching any white icon on the map, especially in towns or near unique landmarks. Use campfires or inns to save quickly, and always double-check your save slots to avoid overwriting important progress. By following these steps, you''ll be well-prepared for any stranger mission in Red Dead Redemption 2.