What are the best horses for beginners in Red Dead Online?

In Red Dead Online, choosing the right horse is crucial for beginners, as it directly impacts your mobility, stamina, and overall gameplay experience. Horses vary in speed, stamina, health, and temperament, and selecting the best one early on can make a significant difference. For beginners, the focus should be on affordability, reliability, and ease of maintenance. The best horses for new players are typically those that balance cost with decent stats, such as the Kentucky Saddler, Morgan, and Tennessee Walker.\n\nTo acquire a horse, you’ll need to visit a stable, which can be found in major towns like Valentine, Saint Denis, or Blackwater. Stables allow you to purchase, customize, and manage your horses. As a beginner, you’ll start with a basic horse, but upgrading to a better one should be a priority. The Kentucky Saddler, for example, is an excellent choice for new players. It’s affordable, costing around $50, and offers solid stamina and health stats. This horse is ideal for traveling long distances and handling combat situations without requiring constant care.\n\nAnother great option is the Morgan, which is slightly cheaper than the Kentucky Saddler. While it has lower speed and acceleration, it compensates with good health and stamina, making it a reliable choice for beginners. The Tennessee Walker is also worth considering, as it’s often available for free or at a low cost during early missions. This horse has balanced stats and is easy to handle, making it perfect for players who are still learning the game mechanics.\n\nWhen purchasing a horse, consider its temperament. Some horses are more skittish around predators or gunfire, which can be problematic during missions or hunting. The Kentucky Saddler and Tennessee Walker are known for their calm demeanor, making them less likely to buck you off in dangerous situations. Additionally, always check the horse’s bonding level. Bonding increases as you ride, groom, and feed your horse, improving its stats and responsiveness. Focus on reaching Bonding Level 4 as quickly as possible to unlock the horse’s full potential.\n\nTo improve your horse’s performance, invest in a good saddle and stirrups. These items can significantly boost your horse’s stamina and speed. The Nacogdoches Saddle, for example, is one of the best in the game and can be purchased later as you progress. For beginners, the Improved Saddle is a more affordable option that still provides noticeable benefits. Additionally, always carry horse care items like Hay, Carrots, and Horse Reviver to keep your horse in top condition during long journeys or intense missions.\n\nA common challenge for beginners is managing their horse’s stamina during long rides. To address this, use the calming mechanic by pressing the left stick (L3 on PlayStation, LS on Xbox) while riding. This action replenishes a small amount of stamina and helps maintain your horse’s endurance. Also, avoid overworking your horse by galloping non-stop. Instead, alternate between galloping and trotting to conserve stamina.\n\nFinally, always keep an eye on your horse’s health and stamina cores. These can be replenished with items like Horse Tonics and Wild Carrots, which are easy to find or craft. By following these tips and choosing the right horse, beginners can enjoy a smoother and more enjoyable experience in Red Dead Online.\n\nPractical Tip: If you’re short on cash, focus on completing story missions and daily challenges to earn gold and money. This will allow you to purchase a better horse and essential gear faster. Additionally, always prioritize bonding with your horse, as it directly impacts its performance and loyalty.