What’s the best way to keep your horse calm during storms?

Keeping your horse calm during storms in Red Dead Redemption 2 is essential for maintaining control and ensuring your horse doesn’t bolt or throw you off. Storms, which include thunderstorms and heavy rain, can spook your horse, making it harder to ride or navigate. Understanding the game mechanics and using specific strategies can help you manage this situation effectively.\n\nFirst, it’s important to know that horses in RDR2 have a temperament system. Each horse breed has a unique level of bravery, which affects how they react to stressful situations like storms. For example, war horses like the Ardennes or Turkoman are naturally calmer in chaotic situations, while smaller breeds like the Arabian may panic more easily. If you’re frequently traveling in storm-prone areas, consider investing in a horse with higher bravery stats.\n\nTo calm your horse during a storm, you need to interact with it regularly. Press the ''Calm'' button (L3 on PlayStation or LS on Xbox) while riding or standing near your horse. This action reassures your horse and reduces its fear level. If you’re riding, slow down to a walk or stop completely to give your horse time to settle. Rushing through a storm at full speed will only increase its anxiety.\n\nAnother effective method is to use horse care items. Feeding your horse hay, wild carrots, or other provisions can improve its mood and make it less likely to panic. Additionally, brushing your horse (using the brush in your inventory) removes dirt and improves its bond with you, which can help keep it calm. These actions are especially useful if you’re caught in a prolonged storm.\n\nIf your horse becomes too agitated and starts bucking, dismount immediately and lead it by holding the reins. This prevents the horse from running away or throwing you off. You can also seek shelter under trees, cliffs, or buildings to reduce the intensity of the storm’s effects. For example, the covered bridges near Rhodes or the rock formations in the Grizzlies can provide temporary relief from the weather.\n\nFor players who frequently encounter storms, consider carrying Horse Stimulant or Horse Medicine. These items can restore your horse’s health and stamina, which may drop if it panics and runs uncontrollably. You can purchase these items from stables or general stores in towns like Valentine or Saint Denis.\n\nFinally, building a strong bond with your horse is crucial. A higher bond level (up to level 4) makes your horse more resilient to stress. Spend time grooming, feeding, and patting your horse regularly to increase your bond. A well-bonded horse will handle storms much better than one with a low bond level.\n\nIn summary, the best way to keep your horse calm during storms is to use the ''Calm'' button frequently, slow down or stop riding, use horse care items, seek shelter, and maintain a strong bond. By following these steps, you can ensure your horse remains steady and reliable, even in the worst weather conditions.