What are the best PvP strategies for the Most Wanted mode?

Most Wanted is a high-intensity PvP mode in Red Dead Redemption 2 where players compete to earn the highest score by eliminating opponents. The key mechanic is that the player with the most kills becomes the ''Most Wanted,'' marked on the map for everyone to see. This makes them a prime target, but also offers the highest rewards for taking them down. To succeed, you need a mix of offensive and defensive strategies, map awareness, and smart use of weapons and abilities.\n\nFirst, prioritize positioning and map control. Most Wanted matches take place in open areas like Saint Denis, Valentine, or Blackwater. Use buildings, alleys, and natural cover to your advantage. For example, in Saint Denis, rooftops provide excellent vantage points for sniping, while narrow streets allow for close-quarters combat. Always stay on the move to avoid being cornered, and use the mini-map to track enemy movements. If you become the Most Wanted, retreat to a defensible location like a barn or a fortified building to limit the angles from which you can be attacked.\n\nNext, choose the right weapons and ability cards. A balanced loadout is crucial. Equip a long-range weapon like the Rolling Block Rifle or Carcano Rifle for picking off distant targets, and a close-range option like the Pump-Action Shotgun or dual-wielded Schofield Revolvers for tight spaces. Ability cards like Paint It Black (for precise aiming), Slow and Steady (to reduce damage while aiming), and Never Without One (to block headshots) are highly effective. Always carry health tonics and snake oil to replenish your Dead Eye and health during intense firefights.\n\nTeamwork is another critical factor. While Most Wanted is technically a free-for-all mode, forming temporary alliances with other players can help you survive longer. For example, if you notice two players focusing on each other, use the distraction to eliminate one or both of them. However, be cautious—these alliances are fragile, and your ''partner'' may turn on you once the immediate threat is gone. Communication is key if you''re playing with friends; coordinate attacks and share resources like ammo and tonics.\n\nOne common challenge is dealing with the Most Wanted player. If you''re not the target, focus on staying alive while picking off weaker opponents to build your score. Use cover and avoid open areas where the Most Wanted player can easily spot you. If you are the Most Wanted, play defensively but don''t camp in one spot for too long. Rotate between cover points and use Dead Eye to quickly eliminate threats. For example, in Blackwater, move between the rooftops and the docks to keep enemies guessing.\n\nFinally, adapt your strategy based on the match''s progression. Early in the match, focus on building your score by taking out easy targets. As the match progresses and the Most Wanted player becomes more powerful, shift to a more cautious approach. Use explosives like dynamite or fire bottles to flush out enemies hiding in cover, and always be ready to retreat if overwhelmed. Remember, survival is just as important as kills in this mode.\n\nPractical tips: Always keep an eye on your Dead Eye meter and use it strategically. Avoid running in straight lines—zigzagging makes you a harder target. Use the environment to your advantage, such as hiding in tall grass or behind wagons. Lastly, practice your aim in free roam or other PvP modes to improve your accuracy and reaction time.