How can I prevent my horse from being injured by a falling boulder?

In Red Dead Redemption 2, your horse is one of your most valuable assets, and protecting it from harm, such as falling boulders, is crucial. Falling boulders are often triggered by environmental hazards, such as unstable terrain or scripted events in certain missions or locations. To prevent your horse from being injured by a falling boulder, you need to understand the game mechanics, recognize danger zones, and take proactive steps to keep your horse safe.\n\nFirst, familiarize yourself with areas where falling boulders are common. These hazards are often found in mountainous regions, such as the Grizzlies or the cliffs near Valentine. Pay attention to the environment; if you see loose rocks or hear rumbling sounds, it’s a sign that a boulder could fall. Always keep your horse at a safe distance from cliffs or steep slopes where rocks might tumble down.\n\nWhen traveling through dangerous terrain, dismount and lead your horse on foot. This gives you better control and allows you to scout ahead for potential hazards. To do this, press the appropriate button to dismount (Triangle on PlayStation, Y on Xbox, or E on PC) and hold the lead button (L2/LT on consoles or right-click on PC) to guide your horse. This method is especially useful in narrow paths or areas with limited visibility.\n\nIf you’re caught in a situation where boulders are falling, quickly assess the situation and move your horse out of harm’s way. Use the sprint button (X on PlayStation, A on Xbox, or Shift on PC) to gallop away from the danger zone. Be mindful of your horse’s stamina; if it’s low, use a Horse Stimulant or other stamina-restoring items to keep it moving. Always carry these items in your inventory for emergencies.\n\nAnother effective strategy is to use the cinematic camera mode sparingly in hazardous areas. While this mode is great for enjoying the scenery, it reduces your awareness of environmental threats. Stick to the standard camera view when navigating dangerous terrain to maintain full control and visibility.\n\nIn missions where falling boulders are scripted, such as certain ambushes or chase sequences, stay alert and follow the on-screen prompts. These events often require quick reflexes to avoid damage. For example, during the mission ‘Pouring Forth Oil’ in Chapter 2, you’ll encounter falling boulders while escaping on horseback. Stay focused and steer your horse away from the rocks’ trajectory.\n\nFinally, invest in a sturdy horse breed with high health and stamina stats. War horses, such as the Ardennes or Turkoman, are more resilient and better suited for hazardous environments. Regularly bond with your horse by feeding, grooming, and patting it to increase its trust and responsiveness in dangerous situations.\n\nBy following these steps, you can significantly reduce the risk of your horse being injured by falling boulders. Always stay vigilant, plan your routes carefully, and prioritize your horse’s safety to ensure a smooth and enjoyable gameplay experience.