How do you calm your horse during intense gunfights?

Calming your horse during intense gunfights in Red Dead Redemption 2 is crucial for maintaining control and ensuring your mount doesn’t bolt or throw you off. Horses in RDR2 have a temperament system, and their behavior is influenced by their bond level, the environment, and the intensity of combat. To calm your horse, you need to understand the game mechanics and use specific techniques to keep it steady.\n\nFirst, ensure your horse has a high bond level. Bonding with your horse is achieved by feeding, grooming, and riding it regularly. A higher bond level (up to level 4) makes your horse more resilient to stress during gunfights. If your horse is skittish, it’s likely because the bond level is low. Spend time building this bond by patting your horse (press the L3 button on PlayStation or LS on Xbox) and feeding it hay or wild carrots, which can be found in the open world or purchased from stables.\n\nDuring combat, your horse’s stress level is indicated by its behavior and the on-screen prompts. If your horse starts to rear or buck, it’s a sign that it’s panicking. To calm it, press and hold the calm button (L3 on PlayStation or LS on Xbox). This action reassures your horse and reduces its stress. However, timing is key. If you’re in the middle of a firefight, try to find cover first, then calm your horse. This prevents it from running off or throwing you into danger.\n\nAnother effective strategy is to use the Horse Stimulant or Horse Medicine items. These can be purchased from stables or crafted using herbs like Ginseng and Yarrow. Administering these items during combat can temporarily boost your horse’s stamina and calmness, making it less likely to panic. Keep these items in your inventory for emergencies, especially during missions with prolonged gunfights, such as the assault on Braithwaite Manor or the battle at Beaver Hollow.\n\nPositioning is also important. Avoid standing in open areas where your horse is exposed to gunfire. Instead, use natural cover like rocks, trees, or buildings to shield your horse. If your horse is hit, it will panic more easily, so prioritize keeping it safe. Additionally, avoid riding directly into large groups of enemies, as this overwhelms your horse. Instead, dismount and fight on foot when necessary, using your horse as a mobile cover point.\n\nFor new players, it’s essential to practice calming your horse in less intense situations, such as hunting or exploring. This helps you get used to the mechanics before diving into high-stakes combat. Experienced players should focus on maintaining their horse’s health and stamina by feeding and grooming it regularly. A well-cared-for horse is less likely to panic during gunfights.\n\nFinally, consider the breed of your horse. Some breeds, like the War Horse or Turkoman, are naturally more resilient in combat. These horses are less likely to panic and can handle stressful situations better than others. If you’re frequently engaging in combat, investing in a sturdy breed can make a significant difference.\n\nIn summary, calming your horse during gunfights requires a combination of high bond levels, timely use of the calm button, strategic positioning, and proper item management. By following these steps, you can ensure your horse remains steady and reliable, even in the most intense battles.