What’s the best horse for story missions, and how do I get it?

In Red Dead Redemption 2, the best horse for story missions is the **White Arabian**, known for its exceptional speed, acceleration, and handling. This horse is available early in the game and can be tamed for free, making it a top choice for players looking to maximize their performance in missions. The White Arabian is located near Lake Isabella in the Grizzlies West region, northwest of Valentine. To acquire it, you’ll need to track, calm, and tame the horse, which requires patience and skill.\n\nTo find the White Arabian, head to Lake Isabella during Chapter 2 or later. The horse spawns in the snowy area near the lake’s western shore. Approach slowly on foot, as the horse is skittish and will flee if you move too quickly or make sudden movements. Use your binoculars to spot it from a distance, then crouch and move closer while calming it by pressing the appropriate button (L2/LT on consoles). Once close enough, mount the horse and soothe it repeatedly until it calms down and becomes yours.\n\nTaming the White Arabian can be challenging due to its high stamina and tendency to buck you off. To increase your chances of success, ensure your stamina core is full before attempting to tame it. You can refill your stamina by consuming food or tonics. Additionally, avoid spooking the horse by keeping your movements slow and steady. If the horse runs away, track it using Eagle Eye and try again. Once tamed, the White Arabian will be your loyal companion, offering superior performance in speed and agility during missions.\n\nThe White Arabian’s stats make it ideal for story missions, where speed and responsiveness are crucial. It has a base speed of 6, acceleration of 6, and handling rated as Elite, making it one of the fastest and most maneuverable horses in the game. These attributes are particularly useful in missions involving chases, timed objectives, or combat scenarios. For example, during missions like ‘Pouring Forth Oil’ or ‘Horse Flesh for Dinner,’ the White Arabian’s speed can help you outrun enemies or reach objectives quickly.\n\nWhile the White Arabian is an excellent choice, it’s worth noting that it has lower health and stamina compared to some other breeds, such as the Turkoman or Missouri Fox Trotter. To mitigate this, invest in a good saddle and stirrups, which can boost your horse’s stats. The **Panther Trail Saddle** or **Rattlesnake Vaquero Saddle** are excellent options, as they provide significant stamina and health regeneration bonuses. Additionally, bonding with your horse by feeding, brushing, and patting it will increase its stats over time.\n\nFor players who prefer a more durable horse, the **Missouri Fox Trotter** or **Turkoman** are viable alternatives. These horses can be purchased from stables later in the game, such as the Scarlett Meadows Stable or Blackwater Stable. However, they require a significant investment of in-game money, making the White Arabian a more accessible option for early-game players.\n\nIn conclusion, the White Arabian is the best horse for story missions due to its speed, handling, and early availability. By following the steps to tame it near Lake Isabella and equipping it with the right gear, you can dominate missions with ease. Remember to bond with your horse and upgrade its equipment to maximize its potential. Whether you’re a new player or a seasoned gamer, the White Arabian is a reliable companion that will serve you well throughout your journey in Red Dead Redemption 2.