What is the best way to complete the Herbalist Challenge 9?
Completing Herbalist Challenge 9 in Red Dead Redemption 2 requires you to pick one of each type of herb in the game. This is one of the most time-consuming challenges, as there are 43 unique herbs scattered across the map. To begin, ensure you have a reliable horse, plenty of stamina tonics, and a good understanding of the game''s regions. The challenge does not require you to pick the herbs in any specific order, but planning your route can save significant time.\n\nStart by focusing on herbs that are easy to locate and abundant. Common herbs like Yarrow, Burdock Root, and Wild Carrot can be found in most regions, including the Heartlands and Big Valley. Use your in-game map to mark areas where these herbs grow. For example, Yarrow is often found near rivers and streams, while Wild Carrot is abundant in grassy plains. Equip your binoculars or Eagle Eye ability to spot herbs from a distance, as they emit a glowing effect when highlighted.\n\nNext, prioritize rare herbs that are region-specific. For instance, Blackcurrant and Evergreen Huckleberry are exclusive to the northern parts of the map, such as Ambarino and the Grizzlies. Similarly, Desert Sage and Red Sage are found in the arid regions of New Austin and West Elizabeth. Plan your route to minimize backtracking by grouping herbs by region. For example, after collecting herbs in the Grizzlies, head south to the Heartlands before moving west to New Austin.\n\nOne of the trickiest herbs to find is the Oleander Sage, which only grows in the Bayou Nwa region near Saint Denis. This herb is poisonous, so avoid consuming it. Another challenging herb is the Alaskan Ginseng, which is found in the forests of Roanoke Ridge. Use your Eagle Eye to spot its distinctive red berries. For herbs like English Mace and Prairie Poppy, which are less common, consult online maps or guides to pinpoint their exact locations.\n\nTo streamline the process, consider using the Compendium to track which herbs you have already collected. Open the menu, navigate to the Compendium, and check the Herbs section. This will help you avoid unnecessary duplication. Additionally, carry a Varmint Rifle to hunt small animals for crafting tonics, as some herbs require animal parts for crafting recipes.\n\nFinally, be prepared for environmental challenges. Some herbs grow in dangerous areas, such as near predator spawns or in hostile territories. For example, the Bayou Nwa region is home to alligators, so stay alert while collecting Oleander Sage. Similarly, the Grizzlies can be treacherous due to harsh weather and steep terrain. Pack warm clothing and health tonics to survive these conditions.\n\nIn summary, completing Herbalist Challenge 9 requires careful planning, patience, and a methodical approach. Focus on common herbs first, then tackle rare and region-specific ones. Use your Eagle Eye ability and the Compendium to track progress, and always be prepared for environmental hazards. With persistence, you will eventually collect all 43 herbs and complete the challenge.