How do I prevent failing missions by not letting hostages die?

Preventing mission failures by not letting hostages die in Red Dead Redemption 2 requires a combination of strategic planning, quick reflexes, and understanding the game mechanics. Hostages are often critical to mission success, and their deaths can result in immediate failure. To avoid this, you need to prioritize their safety, manage threats efficiently, and use the right tools and tactics.\n\nFirst, always assess the situation before engaging in combat. Many missions involving hostages require stealth or careful planning. For example, in the mission ''Pouring Forth Oil IV,'' you must rescue John Marston from a group of enemies. Rushing in guns blazing can lead to John being killed. Instead, use Dead Eye to mark and eliminate enemies quickly, ensuring no one gets a chance to harm the hostage. Dead Eye is a crucial mechanic that slows down time, allowing you to target multiple enemies with precision.\n\nSecond, prioritize enemies who are closest to the hostage. In missions like ''The Sheep and the Goats,'' where you must protect a rancher from bandits, focus on eliminating threats near the hostage first. Use cover effectively to avoid drawing fire toward the hostage. The game’s cover system allows you to crouch behind objects and peek out to shoot, reducing the risk of stray bullets hitting the hostage.\n\nThird, equip the right weapons and items. A scoped rifle or a bow can be invaluable for taking out enemies from a distance without alerting others. For close-quarters combat, a shotgun or revolver can quickly dispatch threats. Additionally, always carry health tonics or snake oil to replenish Dead Eye, as it will be your primary tool for protecting hostages. Items like these can be purchased from general stores or crafted using herbs and animal parts.\n\nFourth, pay attention to mission-specific instructions. Some missions, like ''The Fine Joys of Tobacco,'' require you to follow specific steps to ensure the hostage’s safety. Ignoring these instructions can lead to failure. For example, in this mission, you must sneak into a barn and free the hostage before engaging in combat. Failing to do so can result in the hostage being killed during the firefight.\n\nFinally, practice situational awareness. Hostages are often placed in dangerous environments, such as near explosive barrels or in the line of fire. Always scan the area for potential hazards and neutralize them before they become a problem. For instance, in the mission ''An American Pastoral Scene,'' you must rescue Jack Marston from a burning building. Ignoring the fire or taking too long can result in Jack’s death.\n\nIn summary, preventing hostage deaths requires a mix of stealth, precision, and preparation. Use Dead Eye to eliminate threats quickly, prioritize enemies near the hostage, equip the right weapons, follow mission instructions, and stay aware of environmental dangers. By mastering these techniques, you can ensure mission success and avoid frustrating failures.\n\nPractical tips: Always save your game before starting a mission with hostages. This allows you to retry if things go wrong. Additionally, upgrade your weapons and Dead Eye abilities at gunsmiths and through challenges to improve your effectiveness in combat. Lastly, take your time—rushing often leads to mistakes that can cost the hostage’s life.