How do I defend my Trader delivery from other players?

Defending your Trader delivery in Red Dead Online is a critical aspect of ensuring your hard-earned goods reach their destination safely. As a Trader, you’ll be transporting valuable cargo across the map, and other players can attempt to steal it. Understanding the mechanics and preparing accordingly will significantly increase your chances of success.\n\nFirst, it’s essential to know how Trader deliveries work. When you’re ready to deliver goods, you’ll choose between a Local Delivery (shorter distance, lower risk) and a Distant Delivery (longer distance, higher risk but greater reward). Distant Deliveries are the ones that allow other players to attack and steal your cargo. Before starting a delivery, ensure you’re well-prepared with weapons, ammunition, and supplies like health tonics and horse revivers.\n\nWhen you begin a Distant Delivery, your wagon will appear on the map for all nearby players, marked with a bright red icon. This makes you a target, so you’ll need to stay alert. One of the best ways to defend your delivery is to form a posse. Having a group of trusted players to guard your wagon can make a huge difference. Assign roles, such as a driver, scouts, and rear guards, to cover all angles of attack.\n\nDuring the delivery, keep an eye on the minimap for red dots indicating nearby players. If you spot potential threats, communicate with your posse and prepare for an ambush. Use the terrain to your advantage by positioning your wagon in areas with natural cover, such as cliffs or dense forests. This can limit the angles from which enemies can attack.\n\nIf you’re playing solo, consider using defensive strategies like equipping the right Ability Cards. Cards like ‘Slow and Steady’ (reduces damage while in Dead Eye) or ‘Iron Lung’ (reduces damage taken when stamina is high) can help you survive longer in combat. Additionally, always carry a powerful rifle like the Bolt Action Rifle or a shotgun for close-range defense. Use Dead Eye to target enemies quickly and efficiently.\n\nAnother practical tip is to scout the route ahead of time. Familiarize yourself with the delivery path and identify potential ambush points. If you know where enemies are likely to attack, you can plan your defense accordingly. For example, if your route passes through a narrow canyon, be prepared for enemies to block your path or attack from above.\n\nIf your wagon is destroyed or stolen, don’t panic. You can still recover some of your goods by picking up the dropped bags and delivering them on horseback. While this is less efficient, it can save you from a total loss. Always prioritize protecting the wagon, but have a backup plan in case things go wrong.\n\nFinally, consider using defensive consumables like Dynamite or Fire Bottles to deter attackers. These items can create chaos and give you an edge in combat. However, use them sparingly, as they can also damage your wagon if used incorrectly.\n\nIn summary, defending your Trader delivery requires preparation, teamwork, and quick thinking. Always be aware of your surroundings, use the right tools and strategies, and don’t hesitate to call for backup. With these tips, you’ll be better equipped to protect your cargo and maximize your profits in Red Dead Online.