What’s the best way to dodge incoming fire while on horseback?

Dodging incoming fire while on horseback in Red Dead Redemption 2 is a critical skill for surviving intense combat situations, especially during missions or ambushes. The game’s mechanics reward players who master movement, positioning, and timing. To effectively dodge bullets, you need to understand how your horse’s movement interacts with enemy AI and weapon accuracy.\n\nFirst, always keep your horse moving. A stationary target is much easier for enemies to hit. Use the left stick (or WASD keys on PC) to guide your horse in unpredictable patterns, such as zigzagging or circling. This makes it harder for enemies to line up a shot. Additionally, holding the sprint button (X on PlayStation, A on Xbox, or Shift on PC) will increase your speed, making you a harder target to hit.\n\nSecond, use the environment to your advantage. Trees, rocks, and buildings can provide cover from enemy fire. If you’re in an open area, try to position yourself so that enemies are forced to shoot at an angle, reducing their accuracy. For example, in the Heartlands or Big Valley, use the natural terrain like hills and ridges to break line of sight. This forces enemies to reposition, giving you time to counterattack or escape.\n\nThird, crouch on your horse to reduce your profile. While riding, press the crouch button (R3 on PlayStation, Right Stick on Xbox, or C on PC) to lower Arthur’s body. This makes him a smaller target and can help avoid headshots. However, be mindful of your horse’s stamina, as crouching while sprinting can drain it faster.\n\nFourth, use Dead Eye to your advantage. Dead Eye allows you to slow down time and mark multiple targets, giving you a chance to eliminate threats before they can fire. This is especially useful when facing large groups of enemies, such as during the Lemoyne Raiders ambush near Rhodes. Activate Dead Eye by pressing both thumbsticks (or the designated key on PC) and prioritize enemies with rifles or shotguns, as they pose the greatest threat.\n\nFifth, upgrade your horse’s bonding level. A higher bonding level improves your horse’s responsiveness and stamina, making it easier to perform evasive maneuvers. Spend time grooming, feeding, and calming your horse to increase bonding. A fully bonded horse will also be less likely to throw you off during combat, which is crucial when dodging fire.\n\nFinally, equip the right gear. The Reinforced Lasso and Horse Reviver are essential items to keep in your inventory. The Reinforced Lasso can be used to quickly tie up enemies, while Horse Reviver ensures your horse survives if it’s injured. Additionally, consider using a faster horse breed, such as the Arabian or Missouri Fox Trotter, for better mobility during combat.\n\nIn summary, dodging incoming fire on horseback requires a combination of movement, environmental awareness, and strategic use of game mechanics. Practice these techniques in low-stakes situations, such as random encounters or hunting trips, to build confidence. Over time, you’ll become adept at evading enemy fire and turning the tide of battle in your favor.