What’s the best way to escape bounty hunters in the desert?

Escaping bounty hunters in the desert in Red Dead Redemption 2 can be challenging due to the open terrain and limited cover. However, with the right strategies, you can outmaneuver them effectively. The key is to use the environment, your horse, and game mechanics to your advantage. Bounty hunters are relentless and will track you down if you stay in one place for too long, so mobility and planning are essential.\n\nFirst, ensure you have a fast and well-stamina-trained horse. Horses like the Arabian or Turkoman are excellent choices for speed and endurance. Before heading into the desert, stock up on horse stimulants and health tonics. These items will keep your horse running longer and help you survive if you get into a firefight. Additionally, equip yourself with weapons like the Lancaster Repeater or Bolt Action Rifle for long-range combat, as bounty hunters often attack in groups.\n\nWhen bounty hunters appear, your mini-map will show red dots indicating their positions. Immediately start moving away from them, but avoid riding in a straight line. Use the terrain to your advantage by weaving through rock formations, canyons, or hills. The desert areas near Armadillo or Tumbleweed have plenty of natural cover, such as large boulders and cliffs, which can break the line of sight and confuse pursuers. If you can, head toward these areas to lose them.\n\nIf you’re cornered, dismount and take cover behind rocks or other structures. Use Dead Eye to target and eliminate bounty hunters quickly. Focus on taking out their horses first, as this will slow them down significantly. Once you’ve thinned their numbers, remount and continue your escape. Be mindful of your stamina and health; use tonics if necessary to stay in the fight.\n\nAnother effective strategy is to use the train tracks or roads to your advantage. Trains can provide temporary cover, and riding along the tracks can help you maintain a straight path while avoiding obstacles. However, be cautious of oncoming trains, as they can cause instant death. If you’re near a town like Armadillo, consider riding into it. The presence of lawmen can sometimes distract bounty hunters, giving you a chance to slip away.\n\nIf you’re low on supplies or health, consider fleeing to a nearby hideout or camp. Locations like Thieves’ Landing or the gang’s camp in New Austin can provide temporary safety. Once there, you can restock and plan your next move. Alternatively, if you have enough money, consider paying off your bounty at a post office. This will immediately stop the pursuit and allow you to travel freely.\n\nFinally, always be prepared for the unexpected. Bounty hunters can ambush you at any time, so keep your weapons loaded and your horse ready. If you’re playing as Arthur Morgan, remember that your honor level can affect how aggressively bounty hunters pursue you. High honor may reduce their numbers, while low honor can lead to larger, more dangerous groups.\n\nIn summary, escaping bounty hunters in the desert requires a combination of speed, strategy, and resourcefulness. Use the terrain, keep your horse in top condition, and be ready to fight or flee at a moment’s notice. With these tips, you’ll be able to outsmart even the most persistent bounty hunters.