How do I defend against griefers in Free Roam?

Defending against griefers in Red Dead Online''s Free Roam mode requires a combination of game mechanics knowledge, strategic positioning, and quick decision-making. Griefers are players who intentionally disrupt others'' gameplay, often by attacking unprovoked or sabotaging missions. To counter them effectively, you need to understand the tools and systems available in the game.\n\nFirst, enable Defensive Mode from the Online Options menu. This mode reduces the damage you take from other players and prevents them from locking onto you with auto-aim. While in Defensive Mode, you can still engage in most activities, but it significantly reduces your vulnerability to surprise attacks. However, note that using weapons or initiating combat will temporarily disable Defensive Mode, so use it wisely.\n\nNext, familiarize yourself with the game''s Parley and Feud systems. If a griefer kills you, you can initiate a Parley, which prevents them from attacking you for 10 minutes. This is especially useful if you''re outmatched or want to focus on other activities. Alternatively, if you''re confident in your combat skills, you can start a Feud, which turns the encounter into a competitive kill-based challenge. This can deter griefers who are looking for easy targets.\n\nUtilize the environment to your advantage. When under attack, seek cover behind rocks, trees, or buildings to minimize exposure. High ground is particularly effective, as it gives you a better vantage point and makes it harder for griefers to approach. For example, the cliffs near Valentine or the rooftops in Saint Denis are excellent defensive positions. Additionally, use the terrain to break line of sight and create distance if you need to escape.\n\nEquip yourself with the right weapons and ability cards. A bolt-action rifle or a shotgun is ideal for close to mid-range combat, while a sniper rifle like the Carcano Rifle is perfect for long-range engagements. Pair these with ability cards such as Paint It Black for precise aiming, Slow and Steady for increased survivability, and Never Without One to reduce headshot damage. These combinations can give you a significant edge in fights.\n\nIf you''re traveling with a posse, coordinate your efforts. A well-organized group can easily fend off griefers by using teamwork and communication. Assign roles, such as a sniper to provide cover fire and a close-quarters specialist to handle direct confrontations. This makes it much harder for griefers to single you out or overwhelm your group.\n\nFinally, consider using Fast Travel or changing sessions if the situation becomes too overwhelming. While it may feel like retreating, it''s often the most practical solution to avoid prolonged harassment. You can access Fast Travel from your camp or major towns like Blackwater or Rhodes. Alternatively, use the Online menu to switch to a new session, which places you in a different instance of Free Roam.\n\nBy combining these strategies, you can effectively defend against griefers and enjoy a more peaceful experience in Red Dead Online. Remember to stay aware of your surroundings, use the tools at your disposal, and adapt your approach based on the situation.