What’s the best way to handle the Braithwaite gold mission in Chapter 3?

The Braithwaite gold mission in Chapter 3 of Red Dead Redemption 2, titled ''The Battle of Shady Belle,'' is a pivotal moment in the story. This mission involves Arthur and the gang confronting the Braithwaite family to retrieve stolen gold. To handle this mission effectively, you need to prepare strategically and understand the game mechanics involved.\n\nFirst, ensure you are well-equipped before starting the mission. Stock up on ammunition, especially for your preferred weapons, and consider carrying health tonics and snake oil for Dead Eye. A repeater or rifle is ideal for long-range combat, while a shotgun or revolver works well for close-quarters fighting. You can purchase or craft these items at your camp or in towns like Rhodes or Valentine.\n\nWhen the mission begins, you’ll ride with Dutch, John, and other gang members to Braithwaite Manor. The approach is cinematic, but once the shooting starts, you’ll need to focus on accuracy and cover. Use Dead Eye to target enemies efficiently, especially the Braithwaite guards who are armed with rifles. Stay behind cover, such as wagons or walls, to avoid taking unnecessary damage.\n\nAs you progress through the manor grounds, you’ll encounter waves of enemies. Prioritize taking out snipers on the balconies and rooftops first, as they can deal significant damage. Use your Dead Eye ability to mark multiple targets quickly. If you run low on health, use tonics or food items like cooked meat to restore your health core.\n\nOnce you reach the main house, you’ll confront Catherine Braithwaite. This is a scripted event, so no combat is required here. However, pay attention to the dialogue, as it sets up future story developments. After the confrontation, the mission concludes with a dramatic escape as the Braithwaite manor burns down.\n\nFor new players, it’s important to save your game before starting this mission. This allows you to retry if things go wrong. Experienced players can experiment with different weapons or playstyles, such as using stealth to take out guards silently before engaging in open combat.\n\nA common challenge in this mission is managing your Dead Eye and health cores. To address this, craft or purchase potent tonics like Special Health Cure and Special Snake Oil. These items provide significant boosts and can be the difference between success and failure in intense firefights.\n\nFinally, after completing the mission, loot the bodies of fallen enemies for ammunition and valuables. This can help replenish your supplies for future missions. Remember to return to camp to restock and save your progress.\n\nIn summary, the Braithwaite gold mission requires preparation, strategic combat, and resource management. By equipping the right weapons, using Dead Eye effectively, and staying aware of your surroundings, you can successfully navigate this intense chapter in Red Dead Redemption 2.