What’s the best way to prepare for the mission “The Gilded Cage”?

The mission ''The Gilded Cage'' in Red Dead Redemption 2 is a pivotal story mission in Chapter 4, where Arthur and Trelawny infiltrate a high-society party in Saint Denis to gather information for the gang. Proper preparation is key to ensuring a smooth and successful mission. Here’s a detailed guide to help you prepare effectively.\n\nFirst, ensure Arthur is well-equipped with the right weapons and attire. Since this mission involves blending into a high-society event, you’ll need to wear a formal outfit. Visit a tailor in Saint Denis to purchase or craft a suitable outfit, such as the ''Deauville'' or ''Classic Frock Coat.'' These outfits are available at the tailor shop located near the city’s central market. Wearing the correct attire is crucial, as failing to do so will result in being denied entry to the party.\n\nNext, stock up on essential items. While this mission is primarily stealth-based, it’s wise to carry a sidearm like the Schofield Revolver or Mauser Pistol for emergencies. Ensure your weapons are cleaned and fully loaded before starting the mission. Additionally, bring health tonics, such as Potent Health Cure or Bitters, to restore health if things go south. These items can be purchased from the general store or crafted using herbs like Yarrow and Ginseng.\n\nFamiliarize yourself with the mission’s mechanics. ''The Gilded Cage'' involves stealth, dialogue choices, and exploration. You’ll need to navigate the party without drawing attention, so avoid running or drawing your weapon. Pay attention to the mini-map for enemy indicators and use the cover system to stay hidden. If you’re spotted, the mission can quickly escalate into a shootout, so patience and caution are essential.\n\nA common challenge during this mission is managing the limited time to gather information. To maximize efficiency, prioritize key areas and NPCs. Start by eavesdropping on conversations in the main hall and balcony. Focus on interactions that provide valuable intel, such as the conversation between the mayor and Bronte’s associates. Use the ‘Listen’ prompt to gather clues without alerting guards.\n\nAnother tip is to save your game before starting the mission. This allows you to reload if something goes wrong, such as being caught or failing a stealth section. Saving also lets you experiment with different dialogue options to see how they affect the mission’s outcome. For example, choosing to flirt with certain NPCs can provide additional information or distract guards.\n\nFinally, consider upgrading Arthur’s Dead Eye ability before the mission. Dead Eye is invaluable for marking and taking out multiple enemies quickly if a confrontation occurs. To upgrade Dead Eye, complete challenges like Sharpshooter or Hunter, or consume items like Tobacco and Alcohol to increase the Dead Eye meter.\n\nIn summary, preparing for ''The Gilded Cage'' involves equipping Arthur with the right attire, stocking up on essential items, and understanding the mission’s stealth mechanics. By following these steps, you’ll be well-prepared to navigate the high-society party and complete the mission successfully. Good luck, and remember to stay sharp in Saint Denis!