How do I use the environment to gain an advantage in combat?

Using the environment to gain an advantage in combat is a critical skill in Red Dead Redemption 2. The game’s open world is filled with natural and man-made structures that can be leveraged to outsmart enemies, avoid damage, and secure victories in tough fights. Here’s how to master this aspect of combat.\n\nFirst, always scan your surroundings before engaging in a fight. Look for cover such as rocks, trees, wagons, or buildings. These objects can shield you from enemy fire and give you time to recover health or plan your next move. To take cover, simply move close to an object and press the appropriate button (e.g., L2/LT to aim and then press Circle/B to crouch). Once in cover, you can peek out to fire at enemies while minimizing your exposure.\n\nElevation is another key factor. Positioning yourself on higher ground, such as cliffs, rooftops, or hills, gives you a clear line of sight and makes it harder for enemies to hit you. For example, during the mission ‘Pouring Forth Oil,’ you can climb onto the oil derrick to gain a tactical advantage over the lawmen below. Use Dead Eye to mark multiple targets and take them out efficiently from your elevated position.\n\nEnvironmental hazards can also be used to your advantage. Explosive barrels, lanterns, and flammable objects are scattered throughout the world. Shooting these can cause massive damage to groups of enemies. For instance, in the town of Valentine, you can shoot the lanterns hanging near the saloon to create chaos and thin out enemy numbers. Always keep an eye out for these opportunities, especially in enclosed spaces.\n\nWeather and time of day also play a role in combat. Rain and fog can obscure enemy vision, making it easier for you to sneak up on them or escape. Nighttime provides natural cover for stealthy approaches. Use these conditions to your advantage by planning attacks during storms or under the cover of darkness. For example, during the mission ‘The Sheep and the Goats,’ you can use the foggy weather to sneak past guards and complete objectives without alerting them.\n\nLastly, use the terrain to funnel enemies into choke points. Narrow pathways, bridges, or doorways can force enemies to come at you one at a time, making them easier to handle. For example, in the gang hideout at Hanging Dog Ranch, you can position yourself near the barn entrance to limit the number of enemies attacking you simultaneously. This strategy is particularly effective when dealing with large groups.\n\nIn summary, mastering the use of the environment in combat involves scanning for cover, utilizing elevation, exploiting environmental hazards, leveraging weather conditions, and creating choke points. Practice these techniques in different scenarios to become a more effective fighter in Red Dead Redemption 2.