What’s the best way to avoid griefers in free roam?

Avoiding griefers in Red Dead Online can be challenging, but with the right strategies, you can minimize unwanted encounters and enjoy the game peacefully. Griefers are players who intentionally disrupt others'' gameplay, often by attacking unprovoked or sabotaging missions. Understanding game mechanics and utilizing in-game tools is key to staying safe.\n\nFirst, use the Defensive Mode feature. This mode reduces the damage you take from other players and prevents them from locking onto you with auto-aim. To activate Defensive Mode, open the Online Options menu (left on the D-pad), navigate to Online Settings, and toggle it on. While in Defensive Mode, you cannot be lassoed or executed instantly, making it harder for griefers to harass you. However, note that initiating combat or aggressive actions will disable this mode temporarily.\n\nAnother effective strategy is to avoid high-traffic areas. Towns like Valentine, Blackwater, and Saint Denis are hotspots for griefers due to their central locations and frequent player activity. Instead, explore less populated areas such as the Grizzlies, Roanoke Ridge, or the swamps of Lemoyne. These regions are quieter and less likely to attract hostile players. If you must visit a busy town, stay alert and keep your weapons ready.\n\nUtilize the game''s Fast Travel system to escape dangerous situations quickly. Fast Travel Posts are available in major towns and your camp. If you''re being pursued by griefers, head to the nearest Fast Travel Post and relocate to a safer area. This is especially useful during missions or when carrying valuable items. Additionally, consider setting up your camp in remote locations like Big Valley or Tall Trees, as these areas are less frequented by hostile players.\n\nForming a Posse is another great way to deter griefers. Playing with friends or joining a group of players makes you a less appealing target. A well-coordinated Posse can fend off attackers and complete missions more efficiently. Use the Posse Up feature in the main menu to join an existing group or create your own. Having backup ensures you''re not an easy target and can turn the tide in your favor during confrontations.\n\nLastly, use the Parley and Feud systems to your advantage. If a griefer kills you, you can initiate a Parley, which prevents them from attacking you for 10 minutes. To do this, open the Player Menu (left on the D-pad), select the player who killed you, and choose Parley. Alternatively, you can start a Feud, which allows you to engage in a structured PvP battle with the griefer. This can be a satisfying way to retaliate without escalating the conflict further.\n\nIn summary, avoiding griefers in Red Dead Online requires a combination of defensive strategies, situational awareness, and smart use of in-game tools. Activate Defensive Mode, avoid high-traffic areas, use Fast Travel, form a Posse, and leverage Parley or Feud when necessary. By following these steps, you can enjoy a more peaceful and rewarding experience in the wild west.