How can I avoid failing missions due to NPC deaths in escort missions?

Escort missions in Red Dead Redemption 2 often require you to protect NPCs (non-playable characters) while traveling to a destination. These missions can be challenging, as NPCs are vulnerable to enemy attacks, environmental hazards, or even your own mistakes. To avoid mission failures due to NPC deaths, it’s crucial to understand the game mechanics and adopt a strategic approach.\n\nFirst, always prioritize the safety of the NPC you’re escorting. Stay close to them during the mission, as straying too far can trigger mission failure. Use your mini-map to keep track of their location and ensure they’re within your line of sight. If the NPC is on horseback, match their speed and avoid riding ahead or lagging behind. This minimizes the risk of them getting ambushed or lost.\n\nSecond, be proactive in eliminating threats. Escort missions often involve enemy ambushes or random encounters. Use Dead Eye to quickly target and eliminate enemies before they can harm the NPC. Equip weapons like the Lancaster Repeater or Bolt-Action Rifle for precision and range. If the mission allows, use cover to protect yourself and the NPC from incoming fire. For example, in the mission ''Pouring Forth Oil,'' you must escort a wagon while fending off O’Driscolls. Position yourself on horseback near the wagon and take out enemies as they appear.\n\nThird, manage your resources effectively. Before starting an escort mission, stock up on health tonics, ammunition, and horse revivers. These items can save you in critical moments. For instance, if your horse is injured during a chase, a horse reviver can prevent you from being stranded. Similarly, health tonics can keep you alive during intense firefights, ensuring you can continue protecting the NPC.\n\nFourth, pay attention to the environment. Escort missions often take place in dangerous areas, such as forests or mountains, where NPCs can fall or get stuck. In missions like ''The Sheep and the Goats,'' where you escort a herd of animals, avoid rough terrain that could cause the NPC or animals to scatter. Stick to clear paths and use your horse to guide them safely.\n\nFinally, practice patience and caution. Rushing through escort missions increases the likelihood of mistakes. Take your time to scout ahead, especially in areas with known enemy activity. For example, in the mission ''Blessed Are the Meek?,'' escorting Brother Dorkins through the swamp requires careful navigation to avoid alligators and enemy ambushes. Use your binoculars to spot threats from a distance and plan your route accordingly.\n\nIn summary, avoiding mission failures due to NPC deaths in escort missions requires a combination of vigilance, preparation, and strategic gameplay. Stay close to the NPC, eliminate threats quickly, manage your resources, navigate the environment carefully, and exercise patience. By following these steps, you can successfully complete escort missions without unnecessary setbacks.