How do I locate and complete all cigarette card sets?

Locating and completing all cigarette card sets in Red Dead Redemption 2 is a rewarding but time-consuming task that requires exploration, patience, and a bit of strategy. Cigarette cards are collectible items scattered across the game world, and there are 12 sets in total, each containing 12 unique cards. These sets include themes like Famous Gunslingers, Artistes, and Horses, among others. To complete a set, you must collect all 12 cards within a specific theme and mail them to Phineas T. Ramsbottom, a collector who rewards you with cash and unique items.\n\nCigarette cards can be found in several ways. The most common method is by purchasing and opening premium cigarette packs, which are sold at general stores and other vendors. Each pack contains one random card, but duplicates are common, so this method can be expensive and inefficient. Alternatively, you can find cards in the open world by looting them from drawers, cabinets, and other containers in homes, camps, and other locations. Some cards are also hidden in specific spots, such as on shelves or tables in buildings.\n\nTo maximize your efficiency, focus on looting rather than buying packs. Explore towns, homesteads, and abandoned buildings thoroughly. For example, the town of Valentine has several houses with drawers and cabinets that often contain cards. Similarly, the Braithwaite Manor and other large estates are treasure troves for collectibles. Use Eagle Eye to highlight interactable objects, making it easier to spot containers that might hold cards.\n\nIf you prefer a more targeted approach, you can use online maps or guides to locate specific cards. Each card has a fixed spawn point, so you can revisit these locations to collect them. For instance, the card for the Famous Gunslinger set featuring Landon Ricketts can be found on a table inside the sheriff''s office in Valentine. Another example is the Artistes set card for Sarah Bernhardt, which is located on a shelf in the abandoned cabin near Window Rock.\n\nOne common challenge is dealing with duplicates. Since cards are randomized when found in packs or looted, you may end up with multiple copies of the same card. To avoid wasting time and money, consider trading duplicates with other players if you''re playing online. In single-player mode, you can sell duplicates to fences for a small profit, though this won''t help you complete your sets.\n\nAnother tip is to prioritize high-value locations. Certain areas, like the Saint Denis market or the Rhodes general store, have a higher chance of spawning cards. Additionally, some missions and random encounters may reward you with cards, so always check your inventory after completing objectives.\n\nFinally, be patient and persistent. Completing all 12 sets is a long-term goal, and it may take dozens of hours to achieve. Use a checklist or spreadsheet to track which cards you''ve collected and which ones you still need. This will help you stay organized and focused on your goal.\n\nIn summary, completing all cigarette card sets in Red Dead Redemption 2 requires a mix of exploration, looting, and strategic planning. Focus on looting containers in high-value locations, use guides to find specific cards, and manage duplicates wisely. With dedication and a bit of luck, you''ll eventually complete all 12 sets and earn the rewards from Phineas T. Ramsbottom.