What is the Best Tank Horse in Red Dead Redemption Online?
The crown for the best “tank” horse in Red Dead Redemption Online (RDO) is hotly contested, but ultimately, the Missouri Fox Trotter and the Turkoman consistently emerge as top contenders due to their excellent combination of health, stamina, speed, and bravery. While other breeds might excel in a single area, these two horses offer a balanced package that makes them resilient in firefights and less prone to bucking you off at the slightest provocation. Choosing between them often comes down to personal preference and play style.
Why the Missouri Fox Trotter and Turkoman Stand Out
These horses aren’t just durable; they’re well-rounded. A “tank” horse needs more than just high health; it needs the stamina to outrun trouble, the speed to close distances, and the courage to remain composed under fire. While the Ardennes is undoubtedly a tank, its lower speed and agility can leave you vulnerable. Similarly, lighter breeds might be quick, but they lack the grit to withstand prolonged encounters.
Missouri Fox Trotter: Speed and Stamina Champion
The Missouri Fox Trotter boasts exceptional speed and stamina, making it ideal for players who prioritize maneuverability and quick escapes. Its superior speed allows you to quickly reposition during gunfights or outrun pursuers. The impressive stamina bar ensures you can maintain that speed for extended periods, reducing the risk of your horse becoming exhausted at a crucial moment.
Turkoman: The Courageous All-Rounder
The Turkoman excels in bravery and health. While not quite as fast as the Fox Trotter, it’s still respectably quick and possesses a significant health pool. The Turkoman’s bravery is its real selling point. These horses are less likely to panic in the face of gunfire or predator attacks, keeping you firmly in the saddle. This is invaluable during intense battles or while navigating dangerous territories.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Tank Horse
Several factors influence the effectiveness of a horse in a combat scenario beyond its base stats.
Bonding Level: The Foundation of Performance
A horse’s bonding level dramatically impacts its performance. A level 4 bonded horse will exhibit increased health, stamina, speed, and handling compared to a newly acquired one. Invest time in feeding, grooming, and riding your horse to maximize its potential. A fully bonded horse of any breed will perform significantly better than a horse with lower bonding.
Saddles and Stirrups: Customizing Your Ride
The saddle and stirrups you equip can further enhance your horse’s abilities. A good saddle increases stamina and stamina regeneration, while stirrups improve speed and acceleration. Experiment with different combinations to find what suits your playstyle best. The Nacogdoches saddle is widely regarded as one of the best for its significant stamina boosts.
Horse Care: Maintaining Peak Condition
Neglecting your horse’s needs will negatively affect its performance. Regularly brush, feed, and pat your horse to maintain its health and stamina. Use tonics to replenish health and stamina during emergencies. A well-cared-for horse will be more resilient and responsive in demanding situations.
Personal Play Style: Finding Your Perfect Match
Ultimately, the “best” tank horse is subjective and depends on your personal play style. Do you prefer a speedy horse that can quickly escape danger, or a brave horse that can stand its ground in a fight? Consider your strengths and weaknesses as a player and choose a horse that complements them.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Tank Horses in RDO
1. What exactly is a “tank” horse?
A “tank” horse in Red Dead Online refers to a breed that possesses high health and decent bravery, allowing it to withstand damage and remain composed in dangerous situations. They are less likely to buck you off during firefights or predator encounters.
2. Are there any other good tank horse options besides the Missouri Fox Trotter and Turkoman?
Yes! The Ardennes, Hungarian Halfbred, and Breton are also solid choices. The Ardennes is incredibly hardy, but slower. The Hungarian Halfbred is a good all-rounder, while the Breton excels in bounty hunting with its exceptional bravery.
3. How important is the horse’s temperament in determining its tankiness?
Temperament is crucial. Braver horses are less likely to panic and buck you off when under stress, making them more reliable in combat. Look for horses described as “brave” or “calm” in their breed descriptions.
4. Does the horse’s coat color affect its stats or temperament?
No, the horse’s coat color is purely cosmetic and does not impact its stats or temperament. Choose the color you like best!
5. How can I quickly level up my horse’s bonding level?
Ride your horse frequently, feed it regularly, brush it whenever it’s dirty, and pat it when it’s calm. Participating in missions and races with your horse also speeds up the bonding process.
6. What are the best tonics to use on my horse during combat?
Horse Stimulants and Horse Medicines are essential. Horse Stimulants instantly replenish stamina, while Horse Medicines restore health. Carry a supply of both to keep your horse in top condition during battles.
7. Is it worth investing in a top-tier saddle and stirrups early in the game?
Yes, investing in a good saddle and stirrups as soon as possible is highly recommended. They significantly improve your horse’s stamina and handling, giving you a considerable advantage.
8. How do I prevent my horse from bucking me off during a gunfight?
Maintain a high bonding level, keep your horse well-fed and calm, and avoid excessive gunfire or predator attacks. Equipping a saddle with good stamina regeneration can also help. Brave horse breeds (Turkoman, Breton) also buck less.
9. Can I insure my horse against death in Red Dead Online?
Yes, you can purchase horse insurance from any stable. Insurance covers the cost of healing your horse if it’s critically injured and ensures that your saddle is returned to your inventory if the horse dies.
10. How does horse stamina affect its ability to tank damage?
While stamina doesn’t directly affect damage resistance, it allows you to maneuver your horse more effectively, dodging enemy fire and repositioning for cover. A horse with high stamina can maintain its speed and agility for longer periods, making it harder to hit.
11. Are war horses the best for tanking?
War horses can be effective, but their lower speed compared to horses like the Fox Trotter can be a disadvantage. Bretons are a great choice as they blend war horse characteristics with bravery. Their bulk often gets them shot less than smaller, more agile horses.
12. How much do the Missouri Fox Trotter and Turkoman horses cost?
The Missouri Fox Trotter typically costs around $950 or 48 Gold Bars, while the Turkoman ranges from $925 to $1000 or 46 to 50 Gold Bars, depending on the coat.
13. Are there any horse abilities that affect their tankiness?
While there aren’t specific “tank” abilities, the role abilities can indirectly influence your horse’s survivability. For instance, the Bounty Hunter’s reinforced lasso can help you control threats, minimizing the risk to your horse.
14. How can I best protect my horse from predators in Red Dead Online?
Be vigilant while traveling through predator-prone areas. Keep your weapon ready and use Eagle Eye to spot animals before they attack. Brave horses are less likely to panic, giving you more time to react.
15. Besides horse stats, what skills should I develop as a rider to improve my horse’s tanking ability?
Develop your riding skills, such as controlled braking, sharp turning, and effective use of cover. Practice maneuvering your horse in tight situations and learn to anticipate enemy attacks. A skilled rider can significantly improve any horse’s survivability. This is very important and something often overlooked by players.
Choosing the best tank horse in Red Dead Redemption Online is a personal decision that depends on your individual play style and preferences. The Missouri Fox Trotter and Turkoman offer a compelling blend of speed, stamina, bravery, and health, making them excellent choices for players who want a resilient and reliable mount. Remember to prioritize bonding, saddle selection, and horse care to maximize your horse’s potential. And remember that continuous learning is a key to improvement. Consider delving further into the research on game-based learning done at the Games Learning Society to enhance your gameplay strategies. Visit their website at https://www.gameslearningsociety.org/ to learn more.