What’s the best way to keep my horse from running into trees in dense forests?

Keeping your horse from running into trees in dense forests in Red Dead Redemption 2 requires a combination of careful navigation, understanding game mechanics, and using in-game tools effectively. Forests like Tall Trees, Roanoke Ridge, and the areas around Big Valley are particularly dense, making it easy for your horse to collide with trees if you''re not paying attention. Here''s how to avoid this issue and keep your horse safe.\n\nFirst, slow down when entering dense forests. Holding the sprint button (X on PlayStation, A on Xbox) or tapping it repeatedly will cause your horse to move too quickly, making it harder to steer around obstacles. Instead, use the left stick to control your horse''s speed and direction more precisely. Walking or trotting through forests gives you more time to react to trees and other obstacles, reducing the risk of collisions.\n\nSecond, use the cinematic camera sparingly in dense areas. While the cinematic camera is great for long rides on open roads, it can make it harder to see upcoming obstacles in forests. Stick to the standard third-person or first-person view to maintain better control and visibility. This allows you to spot trees, rocks, and other hazards early and adjust your path accordingly.\n\nThird, pay attention to your horse''s stamina and bonding level. A horse with higher bonding (level 4) will respond better to your commands and be less likely to panic or make erratic movements. Additionally, keeping your horse''s stamina core full by feeding it hay, wild carrots, or horse tonics ensures it can handle sudden stops or changes in direction without tiring out. A tired horse is more prone to accidents.\n\nFourth, use the ''calm'' mechanic to keep your horse steady. If your horse starts to panic or veer off course, hold the ''calm'' button (L3 on PlayStation, LS on Xbox) to soothe it. This is especially useful in dense forests where sudden movements or loud noises (like gunfire or predator growls) can startle your horse. Calming your horse also helps it regain stamina and focus on the path ahead.\n\nFifth, plan your route through forests carefully. Use the in-game map to identify clear paths or trails that are less cluttered with trees. For example, in Tall Trees, stick to the main trails rather than cutting through the densest parts of the forest. This reduces the likelihood of collisions and makes navigation easier. If you''re unsure of the terrain, dismount and scout ahead on foot to find the safest route.\n\nFinally, consider upgrading your saddle and stirrups. Saddles like the Improved or Special Saddles improve your horse''s handling and stamina, making it easier to navigate tricky terrain. Stirrups with better stats also enhance your horse''s agility, allowing it to maneuver around obstacles more effectively. These upgrades are available at stables and can make a significant difference in dense forests.\n\nIn summary, slowing down, maintaining visibility, keeping your horse calm, and planning your route are key to avoiding collisions in dense forests. By following these tips and understanding your horse''s mechanics, you can ensure a smoother and safer ride through even the most challenging areas of Red Dead Redemption 2.