What’s the best way to avoid losing my horse during combat?

Losing your horse during combat in Red Dead Redemption 2 can be a frustrating experience, especially if you’ve spent time bonding with it. To avoid this, you need to understand the game mechanics and take proactive steps to protect your horse. Horses are vulnerable during fights, and if they take too much damage, they can die permanently. However, with the right strategies, you can minimize the risk and keep your horse safe.\n\nFirst, always keep your horse’s health and stamina in mind. Before engaging in combat, ensure your horse is in good condition by feeding it and using Horse Stimulants or Tonics if necessary. You can access these items from your satchel or purchase them from stables and general stores. A well-fed and rested horse is more likely to survive intense battles. Additionally, bonding with your horse increases its health and stamina stats, so spend time grooming, feeding, and patting it regularly.\n\nDuring combat, positioning is key. Avoid leaving your horse in the line of fire. Instead, dismount and command your horse to flee or stay at a safe distance. To do this, hold the L2/LT button to focus on your horse, then press the appropriate button prompt to issue the command. This ensures your horse won’t wander into danger. If you’re in a mission or area where dismounting isn’t an option, try to keep your horse moving in unpredictable patterns to make it harder for enemies to hit.\n\nAnother effective strategy is to use cover. When fighting on horseback, position yourself and your horse behind natural cover like rocks, trees, or buildings. This reduces the chances of your horse taking damage from enemy fire. If you’re in an open area, try to circle around enemies rather than charging straight at them. This not only protects your horse but also gives you a tactical advantage.\n\nEquipping your horse with the right gear can also make a difference. Purchase a better saddle and stirrups from stables to improve your horse’s stamina and health regeneration. The Improved Saddle, for example, is a great option available at most stables. Additionally, consider using Horse Reviver, a vital item that can save your horse if it goes down during combat. Always carry a few bottles in your satchel for emergencies.\n\nIf your horse does get injured, act quickly. Use Horse Reviver immediately to bring it back to life. If you don’t have Horse Reviver, try to revive your horse manually by calming it and administering health items. However, prevention is always better than cure, so prioritize keeping your horse out of harm’s way.\n\nFinally, consider the type of horse you’re using. War horses, like the Ardennes or Hungarian Halfbred, are more resilient in combat due to their higher health stats. These breeds are less likely to panic and can withstand more damage. If you’re frequently engaging in combat, investing in a war horse is a smart choice.\n\nIn summary, protecting your horse during combat requires preparation, positioning, and quick thinking. Keep your horse healthy, use commands to keep it safe, and equip it with the right gear. By following these steps, you can ensure your horse stays by your side throughout your adventures in Red Dead Redemption 2.