What’s the best way to avoid lawmen in towns?

Avoiding lawmen in towns in Red Dead Redemption 2 requires a mix of stealth, awareness, and strategic gameplay. Lawmen are highly reactive to crimes, disturbances, or even minor infractions like bumping into someone or drawing your weapon. To avoid attracting their attention, always be mindful of your actions in populated areas like Valentine, Saint Denis, or Blackwater.\n\nFirst, avoid committing crimes in plain sight. If you need to rob someone or engage in illegal activities, do so in secluded areas or at night when fewer NPCs are around. For example, if you want to rob a store, wait until the shopkeeper is alone and close the door behind you. This reduces the chance of witnesses reporting your crime to the law.\n\nSecond, use disguises to mask your identity. Certain outfits, like bandanas or masks, can help you avoid being recognized. However, note that wearing a mask alone won’t fully conceal your identity if lawmen or witnesses get too close. To maximize effectiveness, change your entire outfit and horse before returning to the area. This is especially useful in towns like Rhodes or Strawberry, where lawmen are quick to respond.\n\nThird, pay attention to your wanted level. If you accidentally commit a crime, immediately flee the area before the lawmen arrive. Use alleys, rooftops, or dense foliage to break line of sight. For example, in Saint Denis, the narrow streets and canals provide excellent escape routes. Once you’ve escaped, hide until the wanted level disappears. Avoid returning to the area until the heat dies down.\n\nFourth, bribe or intimidate witnesses. If someone sees you commit a crime, you can often stop them from reporting it by threatening them or paying them off. This is particularly useful in smaller towns like Valentine, where fewer witnesses are present. However, be cautious, as aggressive actions can escalate the situation and attract more attention.\n\nFinally, use the game’s mechanics to your advantage. For instance, if you’re wanted but haven’t been identified, stay out of the red search zone and avoid interacting with lawmen. If you’re cornered, surrender by holding the appropriate button (L2/LT on consoles) and raising your hands. This will result in a fine or jail time but avoids a deadly shootout.\n\nPractical tips: Always save your game before entering towns, especially if you plan to engage in risky behavior. Carry plenty of cash to pay off bounties or bribe witnesses. Use the map to plan escape routes and avoid heavily patrolled areas. By staying vigilant and using these strategies, you can minimize encounters with lawmen and enjoy a smoother gameplay experience.