How do I stop the bug where the game doesn’t register completed side missions?

The bug where Red Dead Redemption 2 fails to register completed side missions can be frustrating, especially for players aiming for 100% completion or specific achievements. This issue often occurs due to game mechanics, save file corruption, or improper mission triggers. Understanding how the game tracks mission progress and taking preventive measures can help avoid this problem.\n\nFirst, ensure you are completing side missions correctly. Some missions require specific conditions to be met, such as returning to a certain location or speaking to a particular character. For example, the ''A Test of Faith'' side mission involves collecting dinosaur bones. If you collect all bones but fail to return to Deborah MacGuiness in Saint Denis, the game may not register the mission as complete. Always follow mission prompts and double-check objectives in the log.\n\nAnother common cause is save file corruption. To prevent this, avoid relying on a single save file. Create multiple manual saves at different points in the game. For instance, save before starting a side mission and after completing it. This way, if the game fails to register progress, you can reload an earlier save and retry the mission. Manual saves can be created by accessing the pause menu, selecting ''Story,'' and then ''Save Game.''\n\nGame updates and patches can also resolve bugs. Ensure your game is updated to the latest version. Rockstar Games frequently releases patches to fix known issues. If you''re playing on a console, enable automatic updates. On PC, verify the game files through your platform (e.g., Steam or Epic Games) to ensure no files are missing or corrupted.\n\nIf the bug persists, try restarting the mission. For example, if the ''American Dreams'' side mission (involving the serial killer clues) doesn''t register as complete, revisit the locations where you found the clues and ensure you''ve interacted with all required items. Sometimes, reloading the area or restarting the game can reset mission triggers.\n\nLastly, consider the impact of mods or third-party software. If you''re playing on PC and using mods, they may interfere with mission tracking. Disable mods temporarily and test the mission again. For console players, avoid using external devices or software that alter game files.\n\nTo summarize, always follow mission instructions carefully, maintain multiple save files, keep your game updated, and avoid using mods or third-party tools. These steps will help minimize the risk of encountering this bug and ensure your progress is properly tracked.