What are the best abilities to upgrade to avoid mission failures?

In Red Dead Redemption 2, mission failures can be frustrating, but upgrading the right abilities can significantly reduce the chances of failing objectives. The game’s Dead Eye system, health, and stamina are the three core attributes that directly impact your survival and success in missions. By focusing on these areas, you can improve your combat efficiency, survivability, and overall mission performance.\n\nFirst, prioritize upgrading Dead Eye. This ability slows down time, allowing you to target enemies with precision. Early in the game, Dead Eye is limited to manual targeting, but as you progress, you can unlock auto-marking and other advanced features. To upgrade Dead Eye, complete story missions and side activities like hunting or sharpshooting challenges. For example, the mission ''Pouring Forth Oil'' in Chapter 2 is an excellent opportunity to practice and improve your Dead Eye skills. Additionally, consuming items like chewing tobacco or potent tonics can temporarily boost Dead Eye, giving you an edge in combat-heavy missions.\n\nNext, focus on improving your health. A higher health pool allows you to withstand more damage, which is crucial in missions with prolonged gunfights or unexpected ambushes. To increase your health, engage in activities like fishing, swimming, or melee combat. For instance, fishing at the Dakota River or swimming in Flat Iron Lake can gradually improve your health stat. Consuming health tonics, cooked meats, or other restorative items during missions can also help you stay alive in critical moments. Always carry a few potent health cures, especially before starting missions with known combat challenges.\n\nStamina is equally important, as it determines your ability to sprint, climb, and perform physically demanding tasks. Low stamina can lead to mission failures, especially in scenarios requiring quick escapes or chases. To boost stamina, run, ride horses, or engage in physical activities like hunting. For example, tracking and hunting animals in the Grizzlies or Big Valley can improve your stamina while also providing valuable resources. Consuming items like minty big game meat or stamina tonics can temporarily enhance your stamina, ensuring you can keep up with mission demands.\n\nAnother key ability to upgrade is your horse’s bonding level. A well-bonded horse is faster, more responsive, and less likely to throw you off during intense moments. To bond with your horse, spend time grooming, feeding, and riding it. For example, regularly patting your horse and feeding it hay or wild carrots can increase bonding. A higher bonding level also unlocks abilities like rearing on command or quick stops, which can be lifesavers in missions involving chases or escapes.\n\nFinally, consider upgrading your weapons and equipment. A reliable rifle like the Lancaster Repeater or a powerful sidearm like the Schofield Revolver can make a significant difference in combat-heavy missions. Visit gunsmiths in towns like Valentine or Saint Denis to purchase upgrades like improved sights or rifling. Additionally, stock up on ammunition and crafting materials to ensure you’re always prepared for unexpected challenges.\n\nIn summary, upgrading Dead Eye, health, stamina, horse bonding, and weaponry are the best ways to avoid mission failures in Red Dead Redemption 2. By focusing on these areas and using the right items, you can tackle even the toughest missions with confidence. Always prepare thoroughly before starting a mission, and don’t hesitate to use consumables to give yourself an edge.