What’s the best strategy for dealing with the Night Folk in the swamps?

The Night Folk are one of the most dangerous and unpredictable enemy groups in Red Dead Redemption 2, found primarily in the swamps of Bayou Nwa, near Saint Denis. These hostile NPCs are known for their stealthy, eerie behavior and their tendency to ambush players at night. To effectively deal with the Night Folk, you need a combination of preparation, awareness, and quick reflexes.\n\nFirst, always be prepared before venturing into the swamps at night. Equip yourself with a reliable weapon, such as a shotgun or a repeater, as these are effective for close-quarters combat. The Night Folk often attack in groups, so having a weapon with a high rate of fire or wide spread is crucial. Additionally, stock up on health tonics, snake oil, and other consumables to ensure you can recover quickly during a fight. Wear warm clothing if you plan to stay in the area for extended periods, as the swamps can drain your stamina and health cores.\n\nWhen exploring the swamps, stay alert for signs of the Night Folk. They often use environmental cues to lure players into traps, such as hanging bodies or eerie sounds. If you encounter a hanging corpse, approach cautiously and be ready for an ambush. The Night Folk will often attack from multiple directions, so keep your camera moving to spot them before they strike. Using Dead Eye can help you target multiple enemies quickly, especially if you’re overwhelmed.\n\nOne of the most common Night Folk encounters involves a crying woman in distress. This is a trap, and approaching her will trigger an ambush. Instead of rushing in, use your binoculars or scope to survey the area from a distance. Look for movement in the trees or tall grass, as the Night Folk often hide nearby. If you spot them, take them out with a long-range weapon before they can close the distance. Alternatively, you can avoid the encounter entirely by steering clear of the crying woman.\n\nIf you’re caught in an ambush, prioritize survival over aggression. The Night Folk are fast and deadly in close combat, so try to create distance between yourself and the attackers. Use cover, such as trees or rocks, to block their attacks and give yourself time to heal or reload. Throwing dynamite or fire bottles can also be effective for dispersing groups of Night Folk, as they tend to cluster together during an ambush.\n\nFor players looking to farm Night Folk encounters, the best location is the area around Lakay and Bluewater Marsh. These regions are hotspots for their activity, especially at night. However, be aware that the Night Folk are not the only danger in the swamps. Alligators, snakes, and other predators can complicate your encounters, so always keep an eye on your surroundings.\n\nFinally, consider using your horse strategically. While the Night Folk can spook your horse, a well-trained mount can help you escape quickly if things go south. Keep your horse nearby but not too close during an ambush, as it can become a liability if it panics. If you’re on foot, use the environment to your advantage by climbing onto rocks or other elevated positions to gain a tactical edge.\n\nIn summary, dealing with the Night Folk requires preparation, situational awareness, and quick decision-making. Equip yourself with the right weapons, stay alert for traps, and use the environment to your advantage. By following these strategies, you can survive their ambushes and even turn the tables on these dangerous foes.