What’s the best way to calm a horse during a storm?

Calming a horse during a storm in Red Dead Redemption 2 is crucial for maintaining control and ensuring your horse doesn’t panic or throw you off. Storms, whether thunderstorms or heavy rain, can spook horses, making them harder to manage. The key to calming your horse lies in understanding the game mechanics and using the right techniques to soothe them.\n\nFirst, approach your horse slowly and avoid sudden movements. If you’re already mounted, press and hold the ''Calm'' button (L3 on PlayStation or LS on Xbox) to pat and reassure your horse. This action reduces their fear level and prevents them from bucking you off. If you’re on foot, approach the horse from the side and press the ''Calm'' button to speak softly to it. This helps build trust and keeps the horse calm during the storm.\n\nIf your horse is already panicking, dismount and lead it to a sheltered area. Look for nearby structures like barns, caves, or under large trees to provide temporary cover from the storm. Leading your horse to safety not only calms it but also prevents it from running away. To lead your horse, hold the ''Lead'' button (L2 on PlayStation or LT on Xbox) and gently guide it to the desired location.\n\nAnother effective method is to feed your horse during the storm. Open your satchel and select a food item like hay, apples, or carrots. Feeding your horse increases its bond level and calms it down. This is especially useful if your horse is agitated and refuses to listen to commands. Keep in mind that bonding with your horse over time makes it more resilient to stressful situations like storms.\n\nIf you’re caught in an open area with no shelter, focus on maintaining a steady pace. Avoid galloping or sprinting, as this can increase your horse’s fear. Instead, trot or walk to keep the horse calm. Additionally, avoid loud noises like gunfire or explosions during the storm, as these can further spook your horse. If you encounter predators or hostile NPCs, prioritize calming your horse before engaging in combat.\n\nFor players with low bonding levels, storms can be particularly challenging. To improve your bond, spend time grooming, feeding, and patting your horse regularly. Higher bonding levels make your horse more obedient and less likely to panic during storms. You can check your bonding level in the Player menu under the ''Horse'' section.\n\nFinally, consider using Horse Stimulant or Horse Medicine if your horse becomes too agitated. These items can be purchased from stables or general stores and are useful for restoring your horse’s health and calming it down. However, these should be used as a last resort, as building a strong bond with your horse is the most effective long-term solution.\n\nIn summary, calming a horse during a storm requires patience, proper technique, and a strong bond. Use the ''Calm'' button, seek shelter, feed your horse, and avoid stressful situations to keep your horse under control. With practice, you’ll be able to navigate storms with ease and maintain a strong partnership with your horse.