Which missions require specific horse handling skills for gold medals?

In Red Dead Redemption 2, several missions require advanced horse handling skills to achieve gold medals. These missions often involve timed objectives, precise navigation, or specific tasks that demand mastery of your horse''s mechanics. Understanding how to control your horse effectively is crucial, as poor handling can lead to failed objectives or wasted time.\n\nOne such mission is ''The First Shall Be Last'' in Chapter 1. This mission requires you to chase and catch up to a rival gang on horseback. To earn the gold medal, you must complete the mission within a specific time limit. This means you need to maintain a steady gallop, avoid obstacles, and use your horse''s stamina wisely. Pressing the sprint button (L3 on PlayStation or LS on Xbox) while tapping the gallop button (X on PlayStation or A on Xbox) in rhythm will help you maintain speed without exhausting your horse.\n\nAnother mission that tests your horse handling is ''Polite Society, Valentine Style'' in Chapter 2. Here, you must ride alongside Karen and Tilly while avoiding collisions and maintaining a steady pace. The gold medal requires you to complete the ride without crashing into anything. To achieve this, keep a moderate speed, use the camera to anticipate turns, and avoid oversteering. Holding the aim button (L2 on PlayStation or LT on Xbox) while riding can help you lock onto the path and maintain control.\n\nIn ''Horse Flesh for Dinner,'' also in Chapter 2, you must steal and deliver three horses within a tight time frame. This mission demands precise navigation and quick decision-making. Use the mini-map to plan your route and avoid unnecessary detours. When herding the horses, stay close to them but avoid spooking them by riding too aggressively. Use calming techniques (pressing the left stick) to keep the horses under control and prevent them from running off.\n\nFor ''The Fine Joys of Tobacco'' in Chapter 3, you must chase a wagon on horseback and jump onto it. This requires precise timing and control. Approach the wagon at a steady speed, align your horse parallel to it, and press the jump button (Square on PlayStation or X on Xbox) at the right moment. Practice this maneuver in free roam to build confidence before attempting it in the mission.\n\nFinally, ''My Last Boy'' in Chapter 6 involves a lengthy horseback chase through challenging terrain. The gold medal requires you to complete the mission without taking any damage. To achieve this, focus on maintaining a safe distance from enemies, use cover when possible, and avoid reckless riding. Keep an eye on your horse''s stamina and health, as a wounded or exhausted horse can lead to failure.\n\nTo improve your horse handling skills, spend time bonding with your horse by feeding, brushing, and patting it. A higher bond level increases your horse''s responsiveness and stamina. Additionally, equip your horse with the best saddle and stirrups available to enhance its performance. Practice riding in different terrains, such as forests, mountains, and open plains, to become comfortable with various challenges.\n\nIn summary, mastering horse handling is essential for achieving gold medals in several Red Dead Redemption 2 missions. Focus on maintaining speed, avoiding obstacles, and using calming techniques when necessary. Spend time bonding with your horse and practicing in free roam to build confidence and improve your skills. With patience and practice, you''ll be able to tackle these missions with ease and earn those coveted gold medals.