How do I calm my horse during gunfights or predator attacks?

Calming your horse during gunfights or predator attacks is a crucial skill in Red Dead Redemption 2, as it ensures your horse remains under control and doesn’t throw you off in dangerous situations. Horses in RDR2 have a temperament system, and their reactions depend on their breed, bonding level, and the intensity of the threat. To calm your horse, you need to understand the game mechanics and act quickly to maintain control.\n\nFirst, the primary way to calm your horse is by pressing the ''Calm'' button, which is the left stick (L3) on PlayStation or the G key on PC. This action reassures your horse and reduces its fear level. However, the effectiveness of calming depends on your bonding level with the horse. A higher bonding level (up to level 4) makes your horse more resilient to fear, so prioritize bonding by feeding, brushing, and patting your horse regularly.\n\nDuring gunfights, your horse may become agitated due to the loud noises and chaos. To prevent it from bucking you off, continuously press the ''Calm'' button while steering it away from the danger. If you’re in a tight spot, dismounting and taking cover can also help, as your horse will be less exposed to threats. For example, if you’re ambushed in the forests of Roanoke Ridge, dismount and use the terrain to your advantage while keeping your horse nearby.\n\nPredator attacks, such as wolves or cougars, are particularly stressful for horses. In these situations, your horse may rear up or flee, leaving you vulnerable. To handle this, stay mounted and keep pressing the ''Calm'' button while aiming your weapon at the predator. For instance, if you encounter wolves near Cotorra Springs, use a rifle or shotgun to eliminate the threat quickly while calming your horse. If your horse does throw you off, immediately call it back using the whistle command (up on the D-pad or H key on PC).\n\nAnother useful tip is to use Horse Stimulant or Horse Medicine to temporarily boost your horse’s stamina and health, which can help it stay calm under pressure. These items can be purchased from stables or crafted using herbs like Ginseng and Yarrow. Always keep a few on hand for emergencies, especially when exploring predator-heavy areas like Big Valley or the swamps of Lemoyne.\n\nFinally, consider the breed of your horse. War horses, such as the Ardennes or Hungarian Halfbred, are naturally more resistant to fear and perform better in combat situations. If you frequently engage in gunfights or explore dangerous areas, investing in a sturdy breed can make a significant difference. You can find these horses at stables like the one in Valentine or through random encounters in the wild.\n\nIn summary, calming your horse during gunfights or predator attacks requires a combination of quick reflexes, proper bonding, and strategic use of items. By mastering these techniques, you can ensure your horse remains a reliable companion in even the most chaotic situations.