How do you unlock the secret cave paintings?

Unlocking the secret cave paintings in Red Dead Redemption 2 is a fascinating exploration activity that ties into the game''s rich lore and world-building. These paintings are part of the ''Dreamcatchers'' side quest, which involves finding 20 dreamcatchers scattered across the map. Each dreamcatcher is tied to a specific cave painting, and unlocking them requires careful exploration and attention to detail.\n\nTo begin, you must first locate the dreamcatchers. These are small, woven Native American artifacts hanging from trees or rocks. They are often found in remote or hard-to-reach areas, so be prepared for some challenging terrain. Each dreamcatcher is marked by a faint, glowing aura, making them slightly easier to spot at night or in low-light conditions. Use your Eagle Eye ability (R3/RS) to highlight them in the environment.\n\nOnce you find a dreamcatcher, interact with it to collect it. This will trigger a vision of a cave painting, which is a clue to the location of the corresponding painting. The paintings are hidden in caves or rock formations, and each one tells a story related to the game''s themes of nature, spirituality, and the passage of time. To find the cave paintings, you''ll need to explore specific locations, often requiring you to solve environmental puzzles or navigate tricky paths.\n\nFor example, one of the earliest dreamcatchers can be found near the Dakota River. After collecting it, the vision will guide you to a cave near Window Rock. Inside, you''ll find a painting depicting a buffalo and a Native American figure. Another dreamcatcher near Mount Shann will lead you to a hidden cave with a painting of a wolf. Each location is unique, so take your time to explore and enjoy the scenery.\n\nA common challenge players face is locating the exact cave or rock formation tied to a dreamcatcher. The visions are often cryptic, and the game doesn''t provide explicit directions. To overcome this, use your map and journal to mark potential locations. Pay attention to landmarks mentioned in the visions, such as rivers, mountains, or specific rock formations. If you''re stuck, consider using online guides or community maps to pinpoint the exact spots.\n\nAnother tip is to use your binoculars or a scoped rifle to survey the landscape from high vantage points. This can help you spot caves or entrances that are otherwise hard to see from ground level. Additionally, some caves may require you to dismount your horse and climb or squeeze through narrow passages, so be prepared for some light platforming.\n\nOnce you find a cave painting, interact with it to unlock it in your journal. This will also reward you with a small amount of XP and contribute to your overall completion percentage. The paintings themselves are beautifully rendered and add depth to the game''s narrative, making the effort worthwhile.\n\nFor players looking to complete this quest efficiently, it''s recommended to tackle it during the mid-to-late game when you have access to better equipment and a fully upgraded horse. This will make traversing the map and reaching remote locations much easier. Additionally, consider combining this quest with other exploration activities, such as hunting or treasure hunting, to maximize your time.\n\nIn summary, unlocking the secret cave paintings in Red Dead Redemption 2 is a rewarding experience that combines exploration, puzzle-solving, and storytelling. By following the clues provided by the dreamcatchers and using your map and Eagle Eye ability, you can uncover these hidden gems and deepen your connection to the game''s world.