How do I prevent failing missions by not damaging mission-critical items?

Preventing mission failures in Red Dead Redemption 2 by avoiding damage to mission-critical items requires careful attention to gameplay mechanics and situational awareness. Mission-critical items are often objects, vehicles, or characters that must remain intact for the mission to succeed. Damaging these items can result in instant failure, so understanding how to protect them is essential.\n\nFirst, always pay attention to mission briefings and dialogue. Characters like Dutch, Hosea, or other gang members often provide hints about what to protect during a mission. For example, in the mission ''Pouring Forth Oil,'' you must protect the oil wagon from enemy fire. Ignoring these warnings or rushing into combat without a plan can lead to unnecessary damage.\n\nSecond, use cover and positioning to your advantage. When escorting wagons, carriages, or other fragile items, stay close but not too close. Position yourself between the item and potential threats, such as enemy gunfire or environmental hazards. For instance, in the mission ''The Sheep and the Goats,'' you must protect a herd of sheep from wolves. Staying on horseback and using Dead Eye to quickly eliminate threats ensures the sheep remain unharmed.\n\nThird, prioritize enemy targets that pose the greatest risk to mission-critical items. Snipers, dynamite-throwers, or mounted enemies can cause significant damage if left unchecked. Use Dead Eye to mark and eliminate these threats quickly. In missions like ''The Fine Joys of Tobacco,'' where you must protect a wagon from ambushes, focusing on enemies with explosives or long-range weapons is crucial.\n\nFourth, avoid reckless driving or riding. When controlling wagons, carriages, or horses, maintain a steady pace and avoid sharp turns or collisions. For example, in ''The King''s Son,'' you must transport a stolen stagecoach without damaging it. Hitting trees, rocks, or other obstacles can result in mission failure. Use cinematic mode or slow down when navigating tricky terrain.\n\nFifth, be mindful of environmental hazards. Fire, explosions, and falling objects can damage mission-critical items. In ''An American Pastoral Scene,'' you must protect a hot air balloon from gunfire and fire. Stay alert and eliminate enemies before they can cause harm. Similarly, in ''The Battle of Shady Belle,'' avoid using explosives near the gang''s camp to prevent collateral damage.\n\nFinally, practice patience and precision. Rushing through missions increases the risk of mistakes. Take your time to assess the situation, plan your actions, and execute them carefully. For example, in ''The New South,'' you must protect a train from sabotage. Carefully disarming dynamite and eliminating enemies methodically ensures the train remains intact.\n\nBy following these strategies, you can significantly reduce the risk of damaging mission-critical items and avoid unnecessary mission failures. Always stay alert, use Dead Eye effectively, and prioritize the safety of key objects or characters to ensure success.