How do I maximize gold rewards from legendary bounties in Red Dead Online?

Maximizing gold rewards from legendary bounties in Red Dead Online requires a combination of strategy, patience, and understanding of the game''s mechanics. Legendary bounties are some of the most lucrative activities in the game, offering both cash and gold payouts. However, the amount of gold you earn is directly tied to the time you spend completing the mission. This means that rushing through the bounty will result in lower rewards, while taking your time can significantly increase your payout.\n\nTo start, you must unlock the Bounty Hunter role by purchasing the Bounty Hunter License from any Bounty Board for 15 gold bars. Once you have the license, legendary bounties become available. These bounties are marked with a gold icon on the Bounty Board and rotate weekly, offering a unique target each time. Legendary bounties are more challenging than regular bounties, so preparation is key. Stock up on health tonics, ammo, and special ammunition like Express or High Velocity rounds to ensure you''re ready for the fight.\n\nWhen you accept a legendary bounty, the mission timer starts. Unlike regular bounties, legendary bounties do not have a visible timer, but the game still tracks how long you take to complete the mission. To maximize gold rewards, aim to spend at least 30 minutes in the mission. Gold payouts are calculated based on the time spent, with longer missions yielding higher rewards. However, be cautious not to take too long, as the mission will eventually fail if you exceed the hidden time limit.\n\nDuring the mission, focus on completing objectives efficiently but avoid rushing. For example, if the bounty requires you to track the target, take your time to follow the clues and engage enemies strategically. Use cover and aim for headshots to conserve ammo and avoid unnecessary damage. If the bounty involves a chase, use your horse''s stamina wisely and consider using a fast, well-trained horse like the Arabian or Missouri Fox Trotter.\n\nOnce you capture the target, the game will prompt you to deliver them to the designated location. This is where you can extend the mission time to maximize gold rewards. Instead of heading straight to the drop-off point, take a detour or engage in minor activities like hunting or collecting herbs. This will add to the mission timer without risking failure. Just be sure to keep an eye on the target''s condition, as letting them escape or die will reduce your rewards.\n\nAfter delivering the target, you''ll receive your payout. Legendary bounties typically reward between 0.24 and 0.48 gold bars, depending on the time spent. The cash reward also scales with time, so taking longer can double or even triple your earnings. Additionally, completing legendary bounties contributes to your Bounty Hunter role progression, unlocking new abilities and equipment that make future bounties easier.\n\nFor new players, it''s important to note that legendary bounties are designed for higher-level players. If you''re just starting, focus on regular bounties to build your skills and earn enough gold to upgrade your gear. Experienced players can tackle legendary bounties solo, but teaming up with others can make the missions more manageable and fun. Communication and coordination are key when playing with a group, as legendary bounties often involve waves of enemies and complex objectives.\n\nIn summary, to maximize gold rewards from legendary bounties, take your time, prepare thoroughly, and use strategic gameplay to extend the mission duration. By following these tips, you can significantly increase your gold earnings and progress faster in Red Dead Online.