What’s the best way to train a horse for combat in RDR2?

Training a horse for combat in Red Dead Redemption 2 requires a combination of bonding, proper care, and strategic gameplay. Horses in RDR2 have unique stats and temperaments, so choosing the right horse is the first step. War horses, such as the Ardennes or Turkoman, are ideal for combat due to their high health and bravery stats. These breeds are less likely to panic during gunfights or predator encounters, making them reliable companions in dangerous situations.\n\nTo begin training your horse for combat, focus on increasing your bond level. Bonding is achieved by spending time with your horse, feeding it, grooming it, and leading it. Bond levels range from 1 to 4, with each level unlocking new abilities and improving your horse''s responsiveness. At Bond Level 4, your horse will be more obedient, have higher stamina, and recover health faster, all of which are crucial for combat scenarios.\n\nNext, practice riding your horse in high-stress environments to acclimate it to combat. Start by engaging in small skirmishes with bandits or lawmen in areas like Lemoyne or New Hanover. These regions often have random encounters that allow you to test your horse''s bravery. During these fights, keep your horse calm by patting it regularly (press the L3 button on PlayStation or LS on Xbox). This reduces its fear and prevents it from bucking you off.\n\nAnother effective method is to expose your horse to predators. For example, ride through the forests of Big Valley or Roanoke Ridge, where wolves and cougars are common. If your horse panics, dismount and calm it before remounting. Over time, your horse will become less skittish and more reliable in combat situations. Additionally, equip your horse with a reinforced saddle and stirrups to improve its stamina and health regeneration, ensuring it can endure prolonged battles.\n\nTo further enhance your horse''s combat readiness, stock up on Horse Tonics and Horse Revivers. These items can be purchased from stables or crafted using herbs like Burdock Root and Ginseng. Horse Tonics restore stamina and health, while Horse Revivers can save your horse if it goes down during a fight. Always carry these items in your inventory to avoid losing your horse in critical moments.\n\nFinally, practice advanced maneuvers like drifting and quick stops to improve your horse''s agility during combat. These techniques allow you to evade enemy fire and reposition quickly. To drift, hold the sprint button and press the left stick in the opposite direction of your turn. For quick stops, hold the brake button while moving. Mastering these skills will make you and your horse a formidable team in any battle.\n\nIn summary, training a horse for combat in RDR2 involves selecting the right breed, building a strong bond, exposing it to combat scenarios, and equipping it with the right gear. By following these steps and practicing regularly, you can transform your horse into a fearless and reliable partner for even the toughest fights.