What are the best ways to avoid mission failures during missions with time limits?

Missions with time limits in Red Dead Redemption 2 can be challenging, especially for new players. These missions often require quick thinking, efficient movement, and a solid understanding of game mechanics. To avoid mission failures, it’s crucial to plan ahead, stay focused, and utilize the tools and abilities at your disposal.\n\nFirst, familiarize yourself with the mission objectives before starting. Pay close attention to dialogue and mission briefings, as they often provide hints about what to expect. For example, in the mission ''Pouring Forth Oil,'' you must sabotage a train within a strict time limit. Knowing the route and key locations beforehand can save valuable seconds. Use the in-game map to mark your path and identify shortcuts or obstacles.\n\nNext, optimize your movement and horse handling. A fast, well-trained horse is essential for time-sensitive missions. Ensure your horse has high stamina and bonding level, as this allows for faster travel and better control. Use the ''calm'' mechanic (L3/LS) to restore stamina during long rides. Additionally, avoid unnecessary detours or combat encounters, as these can waste precious time. For example, in ''The Fine Joys of Tobacco,'' you must escape pursuing enemies quickly. Stick to the main path and use Dead Eye to eliminate threats efficiently.\n\nGame mechanics like Dead Eye and weapon selection also play a critical role. Dead Eye allows you to slow down time and target multiple enemies, which is invaluable in missions like ''American Distillation'' where you must defend a location under attack. Equip weapons that suit the mission’s requirements, such as a repeater for long-range combat or a shotgun for close-quarters defense. Always ensure your weapons are clean and fully loaded before starting a mission.\n\nPreparation is key. Stock up on health tonics, stamina boosters, and other consumables that can give you an edge during intense moments. For example, in ''The Sheep and the Goats,'' you must herd livestock while fending off attackers. Having health tonics on hand can prevent mission failure if you take significant damage. Similarly, use horse stimulants to keep your mount at peak performance during extended chases.\n\nFinally, practice patience and precision. Rushing through a mission can lead to mistakes, such as missing critical objectives or triggering unwanted events. For instance, in ''A Strange Kindness,'' you must rescue John Marston from a collapsing mine. Take your time to navigate the environment carefully, as falling or getting lost can result in failure. Use the environment to your advantage, such as taking cover during shootouts or using explosive barrels to clear groups of enemies.\n\nIn summary, avoiding mission failures during time-limited missions requires preparation, efficient movement, and smart use of game mechanics. Plan your route, keep your horse and weapons in top condition, and stay calm under pressure. By following these strategies, you can overcome even the most challenging missions in Red Dead Redemption 2.