The Ultimate Hunting Steed: Finding the Best Horse for Hunting in Red Dead Redemption 2
The untamed wilderness of Red Dead Redemption 2 (RDR2) demands a reliable and capable horse, especially when you’re tracking game. While there’s no single “best” horse for every hunter, the Andalusian stands out as a top contender due to its exceptional health, stamina, and aggressive temperament, making it difficult to spook, as mentioned in your provided text. However, selecting the perfect hunting horse involves considering several factors beyond just raw stats. This article dives deep into what makes a good hunting horse in RDR2, explores the best breeds for the job, and answers your burning questions about equine companions in the game.
Defining the Ideal Hunting Horse in RDR2
Before crowning a champion, let’s establish the criteria for an excellent hunting horse in RDR2:
- Courage: This is arguably the most crucial attribute. A fearless horse is less likely to buck you off when facing predators like wolves, cougars, or bears, giving you precious time to react.
- Stamina: A long hunt can cover vast distances. High stamina allows you to pursue prey relentlessly without exhausting your horse.
- Health: A hearty horse can withstand accidental falls, minor predator attacks, and the general wear and tear of the wilderness.
- Speed & Acceleration: While not as critical as courage and stamina, the ability to quickly close the distance with fleeing game or escape a dangerous situation is valuable.
- Handling: A responsive horse that turns and maneuvers easily makes navigating rough terrain and reacting to sudden threats much easier.
- Bonding Level: The higher your bond with your horse, the better its performance and responsiveness. A level 4 bonded horse is significantly more capable than a freshly acquired one.
Top Contenders for the Best Hunting Horse
While the Andalusian‘s aggression towards predators is appealing, other breeds excel in different areas, making them worthy hunting companions. Here are some of the best:
- Andalusian: As highlighted, the Andalusian offers a blend of health and stamina, making it durable and capable of handling long hunts. Its aggressive temperament translates to increased bravery around predators.
- Ardennes: These powerful warhorses are renowned for their courage and strength. They can easily withstand predator encounters and carry large carcasses. Their stamina and speed are somewhat lower than other breeds, making them better suited for shorter hunts in dangerous areas.
- Hungarian Halfbred: Another warhorse breed, the Hungarian Halfbred offers a good balance of courage, health, and stamina. They are often slightly faster and more agile than Ardennes, making them a versatile choice.
- Mustang: Known for their hardiness and adaptability, Mustangs are wild horses that thrive in rugged terrain. They possess decent courage, stamina, and handling, making them a reliable all-around hunting horse.
- American Standardbred: This breed is known for its speed and stamina, allowing you to quickly cover ground and pursue fast-moving prey. While not as brave as warhorses, they are generally reliable and less prone to panic.
The Importance of Saddle and Stirrups
Don’t underestimate the impact of a good saddle and stirrups. These upgrades significantly enhance your horse’s performance, particularly its stamina and speed. Equipping your horse with the best saddle and stirrups available can drastically improve its hunting capabilities, regardless of breed. The Nacogdoches Saddle with hooded stirrups is often considered the best combination for stamina management.
Hunting Strategy and Horse Selection
Your hunting style should also influence your horse selection. If you prefer hunting in areas with a high concentration of predators, a courageous warhorse like the Andalusian, Ardennes, or Hungarian Halfbred is ideal. If you prefer hunting in more open areas where speed and stamina are paramount, the Mustang or American Standardbred might be a better choice. Remember to upgrade your saddles and stirrups, and keep your horse well-fed for peak performance.
FAQs About Horses in Red Dead Redemption 2
Here are 15 frequently asked questions (FAQs) to further enhance your understanding of horses in RDR2:
1. Which horse is the bravest in RDR2?
Ardennes and Andalusian horses are commonly considered among the bravest, due to their warhorse classification and high resistance to fear.
2. What is the fastest horse in RDR2’s story mode?
The Rose Gray Bay Arabian is generally considered the fastest in the story mode.
3. Where can I find the White Arabian horse?
The White Arabian can be found roaming free near Lake Isabella in the Grizzlies West region.
4. Is the Arabian the best horse overall in RDR2?
While the Arabian has excellent stats, it’s not necessarily the “best” for every player. Its skittishness can be a drawback for some.
5. What is the largest horse in RDR2?
The Shire is the largest horse in the game.
6. What does bonding with your horse do?
Bonding unlocks new abilities, improves your horse’s stats, and strengthens its loyalty and responsiveness.
7. How do I increase my horse bonding level?
You can increase bonding by riding, feeding, grooming, and calming your horse when it’s agitated.
8. What happens if my horse dies?
If your horse dies, it’s permanently gone (unless you reload a previous save). You’ll need to acquire a new horse.
9. Where can I buy horses in RDR2?
Horses can be purchased at stables located in various towns and settlements throughout the game world.
10. What are the four horses of the Apocalypse in Undead Nightmare?
The four horses are Pestilence, Famine, Death, and War, each with unique abilities. (Note: This is from Undead Nightmare, a DLC for the first Red Dead Redemption, not RDR2).
11. What is the rarest horse in RDR2?
The Tiger Striped Bay Wild Mustang and the White Arabian are considered rare due to their specific spawn locations and lower spawn rates.
12. What is the best saddle in RDR2?
The Nacogdoches Saddle is often considered the best due to its significant stamina and health buffs.
13. What is the best way to calm a scared horse?
Repeatedly pressing the calm button (usually L3 or LS) will calm your horse.
14. Can I customize my horse’s appearance?
Yes, you can customize your horse’s appearance with different saddles, stirrups, blankets, and hairstyles.
15. How do I revive a horse in RDR2?
You can revive a critically injured horse with a Horse Reviver item, purchased from general stores or found in the world. If you don’t have any horse reviver, your horse may die.
Beyond the Game: Understanding Horse Behavior
Understanding horse behavior, even within a game, can offer valuable insights into animal cognition and the human-animal bond. This connection is something researchers study deeply, and you can learn more about the science behind these connections at organizations like the Games Learning Society at GamesLearningSociety.org, where they explore the educational and social impact of gaming.
Conclusion: Choose Wisely and Hunt Successfully
Ultimately, the best horse for hunting in RDR2 depends on your individual preferences and playstyle. Consider your hunting environment, the types of prey you’re targeting, and your tolerance for risk. While the Andalusian offers a strong foundation with its health, stamina, and temperament, experiment with different breeds, upgrade your equipment, and build a strong bond with your equine companion to become the ultimate hunter in the Wild West.