What’s the best way to save before a river crossing in Red Dead Redemption 2?

Saving before a river crossing in Red Dead Redemption 2 is a smart strategy to avoid losing progress due to unexpected dangers or mistakes. Rivers in the game can be treacherous, with strong currents, deep water, and predators like alligators or wolves nearby. By saving your progress, you can ensure that you don’t lose valuable items, money, or time if something goes wrong during the crossing.\n\nTo save your game manually, open the pause menu by pressing the Options button on PlayStation or the Menu button on Xbox. Navigate to the Story tab and select Save Game. You can choose an empty slot or overwrite an existing save file. It’s a good idea to create multiple save files, especially before risky activities like river crossings, so you have backups if needed.\n\nBefore attempting a river crossing, prepare your character and horse. Ensure your horse’s stamina is full by feeding it hay, wild carrots, or other provisions. Equip your character with a health tonic or food to restore health if you fall into the water. Additionally, check your inventory for items like the Improved Saddle, which boosts your horse’s stamina and makes it easier to navigate challenging terrain.\n\nWhen approaching a river, scout the area for the safest crossing point. Look for shallow areas or rocks that can serve as stepping stones. Avoid areas with strong currents or deep water, as these can quickly drain your horse’s stamina or cause you to drown. For example, crossing the Dakota River near Valentine is relatively safe, while the Lannahechee River near Saint Denis is more dangerous due to alligators and deeper water.\n\nIf you’re carrying valuable pelts or items, consider stashing them at a camp or trapper before attempting the crossing. Losing these items can be frustrating, especially if you’ve spent hours hunting. Alternatively, you can use a wagon or boat to transport items across the river, though these methods require careful planning and execution.\n\nIn case of an emergency, such as your horse drowning or being attacked by predators, reload your saved game immediately. This will reset your progress to the point before the crossing, allowing you to try again with better preparation. Remember that autosave can overwrite your progress, so relying on manual saves is crucial for risky situations.\n\nFinally, practice patience and caution when crossing rivers. Take your time to assess the environment, and don’t rush through the water. If you’re unsure about a crossing, consider finding an alternative route or using a bridge. By following these steps, you can minimize risks and ensure a successful river crossing in Red Dead Redemption 2.