Where is the Strange Statues puzzle located?
The Strange Statues puzzle in Red Dead Redemption 2 is one of the game''s most intriguing and rewarding mysteries. Located in the northeastern part of the map, this puzzle is hidden deep within a cave system near the Elysian Pool, north of Annesburg. The Strange Statues puzzle is tied to a treasure hunt that rewards players with three gold bars, making it a valuable discovery for those looking to boost their in-game finances.\n\nTo find the Strange Statues, head to the Elysian Pool area, which is marked by a large body of water surrounded by rocky terrain. From there, look for a small cave entrance on the northern side of the pool. The entrance is partially hidden by foliage, so you may need to explore carefully. Once inside, you''ll find a room with seven statues, each depicting a figure with a unique posture and expression. These statues are the key to solving the puzzle.\n\nThe puzzle revolves around the statues'' hands, which are either raised or lowered. Each statue represents a different stage of life, as indicated by the inscriptions on the wall: ''Greed,'' ''Poverty,'' ''Despair,'' ''Generosity,'' ''Love,'' ''Abundance,'' and ''Hope.'' Your goal is to interact with the statues in the correct order based on the stages of life. The correct sequence is: Poverty (hand down), Generosity (hand up), Love (hand up), Abundance (hand down), Despair (hand down), Hope (hand up), and Greed (hand down).\n\nTo solve the puzzle, approach each statue and press the interact button to raise or lower its hand. If done correctly, a hidden compartment will open in the center of the room, revealing three gold bars. These bars are worth $1,500 in total, making this puzzle one of the most lucrative treasure hunts in the game. If you make a mistake, simply reset the statues and try again.\n\nOne common challenge players face is locating the cave entrance, as it is not marked on the map. To make this easier, use your Eagle Eye ability to highlight the cave''s entrance. Additionally, the puzzle can be confusing if you misinterpret the inscriptions or the order of the statues. Take your time to read the inscriptions carefully and refer to the correct sequence provided above.\n\nFor new players, it''s important to note that this puzzle is entirely optional and does not affect the main storyline. However, the gold bars you obtain can significantly enhance your gameplay by allowing you to purchase better weapons, upgrades, and supplies. Experienced players may find this puzzle a fun and rewarding diversion from the main quests.\n\nIn terms of game mechanics, the Strange Statues puzzle is a great example of Red Dead Redemption 2''s attention to detail and environmental storytelling. The inscriptions on the wall and the statues'' designs provide subtle clues about the correct sequence, encouraging players to think critically and explore the game world thoroughly.\n\nPractical tips for solving the puzzle include saving your game before attempting it, as this allows you to reload if you make a mistake. Additionally, bring a lantern or use your lantern-equipped horse to illuminate the cave, as the interior can be quite dark. Finally, take your time to appreciate the atmosphere and lore of the cave, as it adds depth to the game''s world.\n\nIn conclusion, the Strange Statues puzzle is a hidden gem in Red Dead Redemption 2 that offers both a mental challenge and a substantial reward. By following the steps outlined above, you can successfully solve the puzzle and claim your treasure. Whether you''re a new player or a seasoned veteran, this puzzle is a must-try for anyone looking to fully experience the game''s rich content.