How can I avoid failing missions by not letting enemies flank me?

Avoiding mission failures in Red Dead Redemption 2, particularly by preventing enemies from flanking you, requires a combination of strategic positioning, situational awareness, and effective use of game mechanics. Enemies in RDR2 are designed to be intelligent and will often attempt to surround or outmaneuver you, especially during shootouts. To counter this, you need to adopt a proactive approach to combat and map awareness.\n\nFirst, always prioritize high ground and cover. When a mission starts, immediately scan the environment for elevated positions or solid objects like rocks, walls, or buildings that can shield you from enemy fire. High ground not only gives you a better view of the battlefield but also makes it harder for enemies to flank you unnoticed. For example, during the mission ''Pouring Forth Oil'' in Chapter 2, positioning yourself on the ridge overlooking the oil fields allows you to spot and eliminate enemies before they can close in on your position.\n\nSecond, use Dead Eye effectively. Dead Eye is a core mechanic in RDR2 that slows down time, allowing you to mark and shoot multiple enemies with precision. When enemies start to spread out or move toward your flanks, activate Dead Eye to quickly neutralize threats. For instance, in the mission ''American Distillation,'' enemies will attempt to flank you from the sides of the barn. Use Dead Eye to mark and eliminate these threats before they can surround you.\n\nThird, keep an eye on your mini-map. The mini-map displays enemy positions as red dots, and their movement patterns can give you early warning of flanking attempts. If you notice enemies moving to the sides or behind you, reposition immediately. For example, during the mission ''The Battle of Shady Belle,'' enemies will try to flank you from the swampy areas. Use the mini-map to track their movements and adjust your position accordingly.\n\nFourth, use throwables and environmental hazards to your advantage. Dynamite, Molotov cocktails, and fire bottles can create barriers or choke points that deter enemies from advancing. For example, in the mission ''The Fine Joys of Tobacco,'' you can use dynamite to block off pathways in the tobacco fields, forcing enemies to take predictable routes that are easier to defend.\n\nFinally, always have a backup plan. If you find yourself overwhelmed, retreat to a safer position and regroup. Use health tonics and horse stamina boosts to stay mobile and resilient. For example, during the mission ''The Sheep and the Goats,'' if enemies start to flank you while escorting the herd, fall back to a defensible position and use your horse to create distance.\n\nBy combining these strategies, you can effectively prevent enemies from flanking you and avoid mission failures. Always stay alert, use your tools wisely, and adapt to the changing dynamics of each encounter.