How do your choices in “The Fine Joys of Tobacco” affect the gang?

In Red Dead Redemption 2, the mission ''The Fine Joys of Tobacco'' is a pivotal moment in Chapter 3 that directly impacts the gang''s morale, resources, and relationships. This mission involves Arthur Morgan and the gang working with the Grays, a wealthy family in Rhodes, to sabotage a tobacco field owned by their rivals, the Braithwaites. Your choices during this mission can influence the gang''s dynamics and future outcomes.\n\nAt the start of the mission, Arthur and Bill are tasked with setting fire to the Braithwaites'' tobacco fields. The mission begins at the Grays'' plantation, where you''ll receive instructions from Mr. Gray. You''ll need to ride to the Braithwaite estate, located southeast of Rhodes, and use fire bottles to ignite the fields. The game mechanics here are straightforward: you must stealthily approach the fields, avoid detection by guards, and strategically place fire bottles to maximize destruction.\n\nOne key choice in this mission is how you handle the guards. You can either sneak past them or engage in combat. Sneaking is the more challenging but rewarding option, as it minimizes the risk of alerting the Braithwaites and escalating tensions. If you choose to fight, you''ll need to use cover effectively and aim for headshots to quickly neutralize threats. However, this approach can lead to more aggressive retaliation from the Braithwaites later in the story.\n\nAfter setting the fields ablaze, you''ll need to escape on horseback. This is where your riding skills come into play. The Braithwaites will send men to chase you, so it''s crucial to maintain speed and use the terrain to your advantage. For example, weaving through trees or jumping over fences can help you lose pursuers. If you''re struggling, consider using Dead Eye to target enemies while riding, which can give you a significant edge.\n\nThe consequences of this mission ripple through the gang. Successfully completing the sabotage boosts the gang''s morale and resources, as the Grays reward them with money and supplies. However, it also deepens the feud between the Grays and Braithwaites, which later leads to violent confrontations. This mission is a turning point that highlights the gang''s reliance on risky schemes and the moral ambiguity of their actions.\n\nFor new players, it''s important to approach this mission with caution. Take your time to scout the area before starting the sabotage, and always have a plan for escape. Experienced players might experiment with different approaches, such as using stealth to avoid combat entirely or engaging in a full-blown shootout for a more action-packed experience.\n\nPractical tips for this mission include stocking up on fire bottles and health tonics beforehand. You can purchase these items from general stores or craft them using materials found in the world. Additionally, make sure your horse is well-fed and rested, as you''ll rely on it heavily during the escape. Finally, consider saving your game before starting the mission, as this allows you to retry if things go wrong.\n\nIn summary, ''The Fine Joys of Tobacco'' is a mission that tests your stealth, combat, and riding skills while shaping the gang''s future. Your choices here influence the gang''s morale and relationships, making it a critical moment in the story. By carefully planning your approach and preparing for the challenges ahead, you can ensure a successful outcome for Arthur and the gang.