What does the eye icon on the mini-map mean during stealth?

The eye icon on the mini-map in Red Dead Redemption 2 is a critical indicator during stealth gameplay. It represents the awareness level of enemies or NPCs (non-playable characters) in your vicinity. When the eye icon appears, it means that someone is actively looking for you or has detected suspicious activity. The icon''s color and state provide valuable information about how close you are to being discovered. Understanding this mechanic is essential for successfully navigating stealth missions or avoiding unwanted confrontations.\n\nWhen the eye icon is white and partially filled, it indicates that an NPC or enemy is suspicious but has not yet fully detected you. This is your cue to adjust your position, hide, or use distractions to avoid being spotted. For example, if you''re sneaking through a bandit camp in the Heartlands and the eye icon appears, crouch behind cover or move to a darker area to reduce visibility. You can also throw a rock or use a distraction item to divert their attention away from your location.\n\nIf the eye icon turns yellow and fills completely, it means the enemy or NPC has detected you and is actively searching for your location. At this stage, you need to act quickly to avoid being fully discovered. Move to a new hiding spot, use stealth kills if possible, or create a diversion to reset their suspicion. For instance, if you''re infiltrating the O''Driscoll hideout and the eye icon turns yellow, you can use a throwing knife to silently eliminate the searching enemy or retreat to a safe distance until their alert level decreases.\n\nWhen the eye icon turns red, it signifies that you have been fully detected, and combat is imminent. At this point, stealth is no longer an option, and you must either fight or flee. If you''re in a mission where stealth is required, such as robbing a homestead or rescuing a captive, being detected can lead to mission failure. To avoid this, always monitor the eye icon and adjust your approach accordingly. For example, during the mission ''The Sheep and the Goats,'' where you must steal sheep from a ranch, staying out of sight and using distractions can prevent the eye icon from turning red.\n\nTo master stealth gameplay, pay attention to environmental factors that influence the eye icon. Lighting, noise, and movement all play a role in how easily you can be detected. Stay in shadows, move slowly, and avoid running unless necessary. Use items like throwing knives, bows, and silenced weapons to eliminate enemies quietly. Additionally, wearing appropriate clothing, such as the Legendary Panther Cloak, can reduce your visibility and make stealth easier.\n\nPractical tips for managing the eye icon include using Eagle Eye to track enemy movements and plan your route. Always have a backup plan in case you''re detected, such as knowing the nearest escape route or having a weapon ready for combat. Practice stealth in less critical situations, like hunting or exploring, to build your skills before attempting high-stakes missions. By understanding and responding to the eye icon, you can become a more effective and versatile player in Red Dead Redemption 2.