What are the best ways to earn honor points quickly in the early chapters?
Earning honor points quickly in the early chapters of Red Dead Redemption 2 is essential for shaping Arthur Morgan''s moral compass and unlocking certain story outcomes. Honor affects how NPCs react to you, the availability of specific missions, and even the game''s ending. To maximize honor early, focus on positive interactions, completing side activities, and making ethical choices during missions.\n\nOne of the fastest ways to earn honor is by greeting NPCs in towns like Valentine, Rhodes, or Strawberry. Simply approach townsfolk and press the greet button (L2/LT to focus, then Triangle/Y). Each greeting increases your honor slightly, and you can repeat this dozens of times in a single visit. This method is particularly effective in Valentine, where the population density is high, allowing you to greet multiple people quickly.\n\nAnother reliable method is helping strangers in need. Random encounters, such as rescuing someone from a snakebite or helping a stranded traveler, often reward honor points. These events are marked by white dots on your mini-map. For example, near Horseshoe Overlook (Chapter 2 camp), you might encounter a man bitten by a snake. Use a health cure or snake oil to save him, and your honor will increase. Always carry these items to be prepared for such opportunities.\n\nFishing and releasing fish is another underrated way to gain honor. Once you unlock the fishing rod (during the mission ''A Fisher of Men'' in Chapter 2), head to a body of water like the Dakota River or Flat Iron Lake. Catch fish, then release them back into the water. Each release grants a small honor boost. This method is peaceful, repeatable, and doesn''t require combat or resources.\n\nDonating to the camp ledger is another effective strategy. At your camp, interact with the donation box near Dutch''s tent. Donating money or valuable items like jewelry or pelts increases your honor. Aim to donate at least $20 at a time for a noticeable boost. This also improves camp morale and unlocks upgrades, making it a win-win.\n\nDuring story missions, choose dialogue options and actions that align with high honor. For example, in the mission ''Money Lending and Other Sins,'' you can choose to spare debtors or take their belongings. Sparing them increases your honor, while taking their valuables decreases it. Always opt for the merciful choice when given the opportunity.\n\nFinally, avoid negative actions like killing innocent NPCs, stealing, or antagonizing townsfolk. These actions drain your honor quickly and can offset your progress. If you accidentally lose honor, focus on the methods above to regain it. By combining these strategies, you can build a high honor level early in the game, setting the stage for a more positive playthrough.