What are the best strategies for avoiding mission failures in missions with traps?

Avoiding mission failures in Red Dead Redemption 2, especially in missions with traps, requires a combination of situational awareness, strategic planning, and understanding game mechanics. Traps are often designed to catch players off guard, leading to instant mission failures if not handled correctly. To succeed, you must pay close attention to your surroundings, use your tools effectively, and anticipate enemy behavior.\n\nFirst, always scout the area before engaging. Use Eagle Eye (activated by pressing both thumbsticks on consoles or the appropriate key on PC) to highlight enemies, traps, and environmental clues. This ability allows you to see footprints, tripwires, or hidden enemies, giving you a tactical advantage. For example, in the mission ''Pouring Forth Oil IV,'' you can spot dynamite traps set by enemies near the oil wagons. By identifying these early, you can disarm or avoid them entirely.\n\nSecond, prioritize stealth when possible. Many missions with traps reward players for taking a cautious approach. Equip your bow or throwing knives to silently eliminate enemies without alerting others. In missions like ''The Sheep and the Goats,'' stealthily taking out guards before they trigger alarms or traps can prevent mission failures. If stealth isn''t an option, use cover effectively and aim for headshots to minimize the risk of enemies setting off traps.\n\nThird, utilize Dead Eye to your advantage. Dead Eye allows you to slow down time and mark multiple targets, ensuring you can neutralize threats before they activate traps. For instance, in ''An American Pastoral Scene,'' Dead Eye can help you quickly eliminate enemies planting dynamite on a train. Upgrading Dead Eye through story progression and challenges will make it even more effective in high-pressure situations.\n\nFourth, always carry the right tools. Items like health tonics, snake oil (to replenish Dead Eye), and throwable weapons can save you in tight spots. In missions with explosive traps, such as ''The Fine Joys of Tobacco,'' having dynamite or fire bottles can help you clear out groups of enemies quickly. Additionally, keep your horse nearby for quick escapes if a trap is triggered.\n\nFinally, learn from mission failures. If you fail a mission due to a trap, take note of the trigger and adjust your strategy. For example, in ''The King''s Son,'' failing to disarm a tripwire bomb can teach you to approach similar situations more cautiously. Replaying missions with this knowledge will help you avoid repeating mistakes.\n\nIn summary, avoiding mission failures in trap-heavy missions requires preparation, awareness, and adaptability. Use Eagle Eye to scout, prioritize stealth, leverage Dead Eye, carry essential items, and learn from failures. By following these strategies, you can navigate even the most treacherous missions successfully.