Unlocking the Ebony Beauty: Getting the Black Arabian Horse Before Chapter 4 in Red Dead Redemption 2
Yes, you absolutely can get the Black Arabian horse before Chapter 4 in Red Dead Redemption 2, but it involves a bit of morally questionable behavior and a touch of luck. Instead of purchasing it from the Saint Denis stable (which only becomes available in Chapter 4), you can acquire it through a specific random encounter. This guide will walk you through the process and answer some frequently asked questions about this magnificent creature.
The Saint Denis Street Robbery: Your Opportunity
The key to obtaining the Black Arabian early lies within a random encounter in Saint Denis. Here’s how to trigger it and successfully acquire the horse:
- Head to Saint Denis Early: You can attempt this as early as Chapter 2.
- Time of Day is Crucial: This encounter only happens at night, generally between the hours of 8 PM and 4 AM in-game time.
- Location Matters: Roam the streets, particularly the area near the theatre on the main street. The encounter triggers in that general vicinity. It may be necessary to ride around the area repeatedly.
- Listen Carefully: You’ll hear a commotion – a man and a woman arguing, followed by a robbery.
- The Scenario: A thief will rob the couple, shooting the woman. He then flees on a horse, which just so happens to be a Black Arabian.
- The Choice: This is where things get tricky. You have a few options:
- Save the Woman (potentially): You might be able to save the wife by intervening immediately and taking out the robber. However, there are reports that doing so can prevent the Black Arabian from spawning later. This is why some sources claim that it may be necessary for the wife to die in order for the Black Arabian to show up nearby.
- Let Nature Take Its Course: You can observe the robbery and its grim conclusion. After the thief rides off, the Black Arabian will be left hitched nearby, close to the crime scene.
- Claim Your Prize: Regardless of whether you intervene or not, locate the hitched Black Arabian and take it.
- The Aftermath: Stealing the horse will trigger a small bounty. Head to a post office to pay it off and avoid unwanted attention from the law.
- Bonding: Start bonding with your new horse immediately.
Understanding the Moral Implications
Acquiring the Black Arabian this way involves a moral decision. While saving the woman is a noble act, it may prevent you from obtaining the horse. Some players might feel uncomfortable letting the event play out as intended, but the allure of an early-game Black Arabian can be a powerful motivator.
Black Arabian vs. Other Arabian Horses: Is it Worth It?
The Black Arabian is widely considered one of the best horses in the game. Here’s a comparison to other Arabian breeds:
- Speed and Acceleration: All Arabian horses share the same exceptional speed and acceleration stats.
- Health and Stamina: The Black Arabian boasts higher health and stamina compared to the White Arabian, making it a more durable choice for long journeys and combat encounters.
- Bravery: Arabian horses, in general, can be skittish. However, the Black Arabian seems to exhibit slightly better temperament than some of the others.
- Availability: Acquiring the Black Arabian early is a significant advantage, as the White Arabian requires trekking to a cold, remote location, and other high-end horses are not available until later chapters.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What are the specific times the robbery occurs?
The robbery generally occurs between 8 PM and 4 AM in-game time. Consistent patrolling of the theatre district during these hours will increase your chances of triggering the event.
2. Can the robbery happen more than once?
Yes, if you fail to acquire the horse the first time (perhaps you died or were arrested), the robbery can happen again. Simply return to Saint Denis on another night and patrol the area.
3. Is the Black Arabian guaranteed to be there every time the robbery occurs?
Yes, according to most reports, the Black Arabian will always be present. However, there may be exceptional cases where a glitch prevents it from spawning. If that happens, simply try again on another night.
4. What if I already own another Arabian horse?
You can own multiple horses, but you can only actively ride and bond with one at a time. You can stable your other horse(s) at any stable. This can create space to acquire the Black Arabian.
5. Will the Black Arabian disappear if I don’t bond with it immediately?
The horse is not likely to disappear, but it’s always recommended to start bonding with any new horse as soon as possible. Ride it, groom it, and feed it to increase its bonding level.
6. Is there a difference between the Black Arabian obtained this way and the one from the stable?
No, the stats and appearance are identical. The only difference is the method of acquisition and the timing. The stable version cannot be obtained until Chapter 4.
7. What if I accidentally kill the Black Arabian?
Unfortunately, if the horse dies, it’s gone for good. So, once acquired, take care of it.
8. Can I get this horse as John Marston in the epilogue?
Yes, if for some reason you don’t acquire the horse as Arthur, the same random encounter will occur in Saint Denis during the epilogue.
9. What are the best saddles and stirrups to use with the Black Arabian?
The best saddle is the Improved Nacogdoches Saddle, which significantly increases speed and stamina. The Hooded Stirrups further enhance these benefits.
10. Are there any other all-black horses in the game?
Yes, there is the American Standardbred which you can find in the wild. This horse can be located in the wild. It is found roaming in the wilderness.
11. How much does the Black Arabian cost to purchase from the stable in Chapter 4?
The Black Arabian costs $1,050 to purchase from the stable in Saint Denis once it becomes available in Chapter 4.
12. Will this method work on all platforms (PC, PlayStation, Xbox)?
Yes, the random encounter is a consistent feature of the game across all platforms.
13. Does my honor level affect the encounter?
No, your honor level does not influence whether or not the robbery event triggers.
14. Are there any other rare horse encounters in Saint Denis?
There are no other specific rare horse encounters in Saint Denis similar to the Black Arabian robbery.
15. Where can I learn more about the design and mechanics of games like Red Dead Redemption 2?
Organizations like the Games Learning Society are dedicated to exploring the educational and societal impacts of video games. Learn more at https://www.gameslearningsociety.org/.
Securing the Black Arabian early in Red Dead Redemption 2 is a rewarding, albeit morally gray, endeavor. By following these steps and being persistent, you can add this magnificent horse to your stable long before Chapter 4.