What are the best ways to gain honor during story missions?

Gaining honor during story missions in Red Dead Redemption 2 is a key way to shape Arthur Morgan''s moral compass and unlock certain story outcomes. Honor is a core mechanic that reflects Arthur''s actions, and it can be increased by making ethical choices, helping others, and avoiding unnecessary violence. Story missions often present opportunities to gain honor, and understanding how to maximize these moments is crucial for players aiming for a high-honor playthrough.\n\nOne of the most straightforward ways to gain honor during story missions is by choosing dialogue options that reflect kindness or compassion. For example, in missions involving interactions with strangers or gang members, selecting responses that show empathy or a willingness to help will often reward you with honor points. Pay attention to the tone of the dialogue and opt for choices that align with a morally upright character.\n\nAnother effective method is to assist NPCs in need during missions. Many story missions involve encounters with distressed individuals, such as settlers, travelers, or townsfolk. Helping these characters, whether by defending them from attackers, returning stolen goods, or offering financial aid, will significantly boost your honor. For instance, in the mission ''Money Lending and Other Sins,'' you can choose to forgive debts owed by struggling families, which increases your honor.\n\nAvoiding unnecessary violence is another critical factor. While some missions require combat, you can often minimize bloodshed by using non-lethal methods or sparing enemies when given the option. For example, in missions where you confront rival gangs or lawmen, choosing to disarm or intimidate opponents instead of killing them can earn you honor points. Additionally, sparing key characters during pivotal moments, such as during confrontations with major antagonists, will also boost your honor.\n\nCompleting optional objectives within missions can also contribute to honor gains. Many missions have hidden or secondary goals that reward ethical behavior. For example, in the mission ''A Fisher of Men,'' you can choose to return a stolen item to its rightful owner, which increases your honor. Always explore mission areas thoroughly and interact with NPCs to uncover these opportunities.\n\nFinally, maintaining a high honor level throughout the game requires consistency. While story missions provide significant honor boosts, your actions outside of missions also matter. Avoid antagonizing innocent NPCs, refrain from stealing or looting unnecessarily, and engage in random encounters that allow you to help others. By combining these habits with ethical choices during missions, you can maximize your honor and unlock the benefits of a high-honor playthrough.\n\nPractical tips for maximizing honor during story missions include saving before key decision points to experiment with different outcomes, paying attention to mission briefings for hints about ethical choices, and using the honor indicator to track your progress. By following these strategies, you can ensure Arthur Morgan''s legacy is one of redemption and integrity.