What’s the best way to avoid failing missions with horseback combat?

Horseback combat in Red Dead Redemption 2 can be challenging, especially during missions where failure conditions are strict. To avoid mission failures, it’s crucial to master both horse handling and combat mechanics. Start by ensuring your horse is well-bonded and equipped with the right gear. A higher bond level improves your horse’s responsiveness, stamina, and health, which are essential during intense combat scenarios. Use the Horse Bonding system by feeding, grooming, and calming your horse regularly.\n\nNext, familiarize yourself with the Dead Eye system, which is invaluable during horseback combat. Dead Eye allows you to slow down time and target multiple enemies with precision. To activate Dead Eye, press the right stick (R3 on PlayStation or RS on Xbox) when your meter is full. Use this feature to take out enemies quickly, especially when you’re outnumbered. For example, during the mission ''Pouring Forth Oil,'' Dead Eye can help you eliminate enemies on horseback before they can shoot you or your allies.\n\nPositioning is another critical factor. Avoid riding directly into enemy fire or tight spaces where your horse can get stuck. Instead, use the environment to your advantage. Stay on the move, circling enemies to make yourself a harder target. For instance, during the mission ''Horse Flesh for Dinner,'' keep your distance from enemies while using cover like trees or rocks to shield yourself from gunfire. This strategy minimizes the risk of your horse getting injured or you being knocked off.\n\nEquip the right weapons for horseback combat. Repeaters like the Lancaster or Litchfield are ideal for mid-range engagements, while shotguns like the Pump-Action are effective at close range. Always carry a sidearm like the Schofield Revolver for quick draw situations. During missions like ''The Battle of Shady Belle,'' switching between weapons based on enemy proximity can save your life.\n\nPractice using the ''Aim Assist'' feature if you’re struggling with accuracy. This mechanic helps you lock onto targets while riding, making it easier to hit enemies without losing control of your horse. To enable Aim Assist, go to the settings menu and adjust the targeting mode to ''Wide'' or ''Normal.'' This is particularly useful for new players who are still getting used to the game’s controls.\n\nFinally, always keep an eye on your horse’s health and stamina. Use Horse Stimulants or Potent Horse Medicine to restore stamina and health during prolonged combat. These items can be purchased from stables or crafted using herbs like Ginseng and Yarrow. For example, during the mission ''The King’s Son,'' having these items on hand can prevent your horse from collapsing mid-chase.\n\nIn summary, avoid mission failures in horseback combat by bonding with your horse, mastering Dead Eye, positioning yourself strategically, equipping the right weapons, and using Aim Assist. With these tips, you’ll be better prepared to handle any mission that involves horseback combat in Red Dead Redemption 2.