What’s the best way to handle a horse during a chase in RDR2?

Handling a horse during a chase in Red Dead Redemption 2 requires a combination of skill, strategy, and understanding of the game mechanics. Chases can occur during missions, bounty hunts, or random encounters, and mastering horseback riding in these situations is crucial for survival and success. Here’s a detailed guide to help you navigate these high-pressure moments.\n\nFirst, ensure your horse is well-bonded and in good condition. A higher bond level (up to level 4) improves your horse’s stamina, responsiveness, and overall performance. To bond with your horse, spend time grooming, feeding, and patting it. Additionally, keep your horse’s stamina and health cores full by using items like Hay, Oats, or Horse Tonics. A well-maintained horse will perform better during intense chases.\n\nDuring a chase, use the sprint button (L3 on PlayStation or LS on Xbox) to maintain speed, but be mindful of your horse’s stamina. Hold the calm button (L3 or LS) periodically to replenish stamina while riding. This is especially important during long chases, as running out of stamina will slow you down significantly. If your horse’s stamina is low, use a Horse Stimulant or other stamina-restoring items to keep it going.\n\nSteering is critical during a chase. Use the left stick to guide your horse, but avoid sharp turns that could cause your horse to stumble or crash. If you’re being chased, try to weave through obstacles like trees, rocks, or buildings to break the line of sight with your pursuers. This can buy you time or even cause them to lose track of you entirely. For example, in the forests near Valentine or the rocky terrain of Big Valley, use the environment to your advantage.\n\nIf you’re chasing someone, stay close but avoid colliding with their horse. Use Dead Eye to target their horse’s legs or the rider themselves, depending on your objective. For instance, during bounty hunts, you may want to incapacitate the target without killing them. Aim for the legs to slow their horse down, then lasso them when they fall.\n\nIn combat-heavy chases, such as those involving lawmen or rival gangs, use your horse’s agility to dodge incoming fire. Move in unpredictable patterns and use cover when available. If you’re on open terrain, like the plains of New Hanover, consider dismounting temporarily to take cover and return fire. However, always keep an eye on your horse’s position so you can quickly remount if needed.\n\nFinally, practice makes perfect. Spend time riding in different terrains, such as the swamps of Lemoyne or the snowy mountains of Ambarino, to get a feel for how your horse handles under various conditions. This will prepare you for any chase scenario the game throws at you.\n\nBy following these tips and understanding the mechanics, you’ll be able to handle your horse effectively during chases, whether you’re the pursuer or the pursued. Keep your horse healthy, use the environment strategically, and stay calm under pressure to come out on top.