What’s the best way to use the environment to block enemy shots?

Horseback combat in Red Dead Redemption 2 can be intense, especially when facing multiple enemies. Using the environment to block enemy shots is a crucial skill that can significantly improve your survivability. The key is to leverage natural and man-made structures to shield yourself from incoming fire while maintaining mobility and positioning for counterattacks.\n\nOne of the most effective ways to block enemy shots is to use large objects like rocks, trees, or buildings as cover. When riding your horse, position yourself so that these objects are between you and your enemies. For example, if you''re in a forested area, weave between trees to break the line of sight of your pursuers. This forces them to reposition, giving you time to plan your next move or escape.\n\nAnother useful tactic is to use elevation to your advantage. Hills, cliffs, and ridges can act as natural barriers against enemy fire. If you''re being chased, ride up a hill or behind a ridge to temporarily block enemy shots. This is particularly effective in areas like the Grizzlies or Big Valley, where the terrain is uneven and offers plenty of elevation changes. Once you''re out of sight, you can either dismount and take cover or continue riding to a safer location.\n\nMan-made structures like barns, fences, and walls are also excellent for blocking shots. For instance, if you''re near a ranch or town, ride close to buildings or fences to create a barrier between you and your attackers. Be cautious, though, as some structures may have narrow gaps that enemies can still shoot through. In towns like Valentine or Rhodes, use the tight alleyways and buildings to your advantage by weaving through them to break line of sight.\n\nWhen using the environment to block shots, it''s important to keep your horse''s stamina in mind. Constantly changing direction or riding uphill can drain stamina quickly. Make sure to calm your horse regularly by pressing the left stick (L3 on PlayStation or LS on Xbox) to keep it from panicking. Additionally, consider using horse stimulants or feeding your horse to restore stamina during prolonged chases.\n\nA practical example of this strategy is during the mission ''Pouring Forth Oil'' in Chapter 2. When ambushed by the O''Driscolls, you can use the rocky terrain and trees near the oil derrick to block their shots while you return fire. Similarly, in free roam, if you''re attacked by bounty hunters or rival gangs, look for nearby structures or natural cover to shield yourself.\n\nFinally, always be aware of your surroundings. Use Dead Eye to mark enemies and identify potential cover spots. If you''re in an open area with little cover, consider using smoke bombs or throwing knives to create distractions and buy time to reposition. By mastering these techniques, you can turn the environment into a powerful ally during horseback combat.\n\nIn summary, the best way to use the environment to block enemy shots is to position yourself behind large objects, use elevation changes, and take advantage of man-made structures. Keep your horse calm and monitor its stamina, and always be aware of your surroundings. With practice, you''ll be able to outmaneuver and outlast your enemies in even the most challenging situations.