How can I prevent my horse from being injured by falling off cliffs?

In Red Dead Redemption 2, your horse is one of your most valuable assets, and keeping it safe from injuries, especially from falling off cliffs, is crucial. Horses can sustain severe damage or even die if they fall from great heights, so understanding how to navigate treacherous terrain is essential. This guide will provide detailed steps and game mechanics to help you avoid such accidents.\n\nFirst, always be aware of your surroundings. The game’s world is vast and filled with uneven terrain, particularly in mountainous regions like the Grizzlies or the cliffs near Roanoke Ridge. When riding in these areas, slow down and use the cinematic camera sparingly, as it can obscure your view of upcoming hazards. Instead, rely on the standard third-person view to better assess the terrain ahead.\n\nSecond, use the game’s horse control mechanics to your advantage. When approaching a steep incline or cliff, hold the left trigger (LT on Xbox, L2 on PlayStation) to slow your horse to a walk. This gives you more control and allows you to carefully navigate narrow paths. Additionally, tapping the calm button (square on PlayStation, X on Xbox) can soothe your horse, keeping it steady in dangerous situations.\n\nThird, avoid riding at full speed in unfamiliar or hazardous areas. Horses can stumble or lose their footing if you push them too hard on uneven terrain. For example, in areas like the cliffs near Brandywine Drop or the winding paths of Mount Hagen, it’s better to take your time and proceed cautiously. If you’re unsure about a path, dismount and scout ahead on foot to ensure it’s safe for your horse.\n\nFourth, invest in a horse with high stamina and health stats. Breeds like the Arabian or Turkoman are excellent choices for navigating tricky terrain due to their agility and resilience. Additionally, bonding with your horse to level 4 unlocks the ability to perform advanced maneuvers, such as quick stops and sharp turns, which can help you avoid accidents.\n\nFifth, use the game’s waypoint system wisely. When setting a destination, avoid routes that take you through steep or dangerous areas. Instead, manually adjust your path to follow safer roads or trails. For example, when traveling from Valentine to Strawberry, take the longer but safer route through the plains rather than attempting to cut through the treacherous mountains.\n\nFinally, always carry Horse Reviver in your inventory. If your horse does fall and become critically injured, this item can save its life. You can purchase Horse Reviver from general stores or craft it using specific herbs and materials. Having this on hand ensures you’re prepared for emergencies.\n\nBy following these steps and understanding the game’s mechanics, you can significantly reduce the risk of your horse falling off cliffs. Always prioritize caution, invest in a reliable horse, and be prepared for unexpected dangers. With practice, you’ll master navigating even the most challenging terrain in Red Dead Redemption 2.