Where to Buy the Best Horse in RDR2 Story Mode
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The quest for the best horse in Red Dead Redemption 2 (RDR2) is a popular topic among players, and for good reason. A trusty steed is your constant companion, a vital tool for traversal, and a powerful ally in combat. So, where exactly can you purchase the absolute best horse in RDR2’s story mode? The answer is clear: the Rose Grey Bay Arabian, which becomes available for purchase at the Blackwater Stables after completing the main story (specifically, after the epilogue). This horse comes at a steep price of $1,250, but its superior stats make it a worthwhile investment for any serious player.
The Allure of the Rose Grey Bay Arabian
The Rose Grey Bay Arabian isn’t just another pretty face. It boasts impressive base statistics that surpass many other horses in the game. Here’s why it’s often hailed as the best:
- Exceptional Speed: While other breeds might briefly touch higher speeds, the Arabian’s speed coupled with its acceleration makes it the fastest overall, more agile option for traversing the expansive open-world map.
- Excellent Acceleration: This means quick starts and rapid bursts of speed, crucial for escaping danger and navigating tricky situations.
- Good Stamina: While not the absolute highest, its stamina is still very respectable, allowing for long rides without exhausting your horse quickly, particularly when paired with proper care and bonding.
- Superb Handling: The Arabian is very responsive, making it a joy to ride whether you’re weaving through trees or chasing down enemies.
While there are other breeds in the game that also offer strong stats, the blend of speed, acceleration, and handling of the Rose Grey Bay Arabian makes it the most well-rounded and efficient choice overall. It’s the horse that will consistently feel the most responsive and capable as you explore all that RDR2’s world has to offer.
Why the Rose Grey Bay Arabian is Post-Epilogue
Unfortunately, the game’s design gates this horse until the end of the story. It’s a reward for your journey, meant to make the post-game exploration a pleasure. This delay also allows you to try out other breeds and experience the journey on a variety of horses, creating a sense of progression and providing an incentive for continuing to play even after the main story is complete.
Other High-Quality Options
While the Rose Grey Bay Arabian reigns supreme, several other horses deserve a mention:
- The White Arabian: Found wild near Lake Isabella, this horse is a great early option but not as powerful as the Rose Grey Bay. It’s a good choice for players who want an excellent horse earlier in the game without spending money.
- The Black Arabian: Available at the Saint Denis Stable in Chapter 4. It’s a great, accessible alternative if you cannot wait until the epilogue.
- The Missouri Fox Trotter: Another top-tier option, obtainable at the stables in Scarlett Meadows or Blackwater after Chapter 6. It is often considered an equal or slightly below the Arabian in player’s rankings.
- Turkoman: A strong option that many players enjoy. However, it is usually considered slightly less powerful than the Arabian or Fox Trotter.
These horses, while not the absolute best, are strong contenders and offer a variety of styles and gameplay experiences. Each horse in RDR2 has its unique characteristics, allowing players to find one that suits their riding preferences.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is the Rose Grey Bay Arabian truly the best horse?
Yes, the Rose Grey Bay Arabian is widely regarded as the best all-around horse in RDR2’s story mode due to its balance of speed, acceleration, handling, and decent stamina. Other breeds may excel in specific areas, but none match the Arabian’s overall performance.
2. Can I get the Rose Grey Bay Arabian before the epilogue?
No. This particular horse is locked until after the completion of the main story, meaning you’ll have to play into the epilogue before access to purchasing it opens up at Blackwater Stables.
3. Where can I find the White Arabian?
The White Arabian is found in the wild near Lake Isabella, which is marked on the map. It’s a wild horse, meaning you’ll have to tame it. Be cautious as it startles easily.
4. How much does the White Arabian cost?
The White Arabian is free to tame in the wild, no purchase is required for the horse itself. However, tack and supplies will need to be bought from a stable to keep it healthy and performing at its best.
5. Where can I buy a Missouri Fox Trotter?
The Missouri Fox Trotter can be purchased at the stables in Scarlett Meadows or Blackwater after Chapter 6 (during the epilogue).
6. How much does the Missouri Fox Trotter cost?
The Missouri Fox Trotter costs $950 at either location.
7. How do I get a free War Horse?
The Ardennes War Horse is available for free if you pre-ordered a special edition of the game. The horse is available at the stables during Chapter 2, specifically during the “Exit Pursued By a Bruised Ego” mission.
8. Do wild horses respawn?
Yes, wild horses, like the White Arabian, will respawn after you leave the area and return.
9. How do I improve horse stats in RDR2?
You can’t improve the base speed and acceleration of a horse. However, you can improve its core attributes with the appropriate tack, and can improve other stats through horse bonding.
10. What’s the best saddle in RDR2?
The Panther Trail Saddle is often considered the best for its significant -26% core stamina drain.
11. Where can I buy a Black Arabian Horse?
The Black Arabian Horse is available at the Saint Denis Stable during Chapter 4.
12. Are there any other Arabian horses in RDR2?
Yes, in addition to the Rose Grey Bay and Black, the White Arabian is the third Arabian variant. There may be unique variants in online play as well.
13. Can you sell wild horses in RDR2?
Yes, you can sell wild horses that you have tamed to a horse fence. Turkomans, Missouri Fox Trotters, and Mustangs fetch the highest prices.
14. How do you bond with your horse in RDR2?
You bond with your horse by riding it, grooming it, feeding it, and generally caring for its needs. The higher your bonding level, the better your horse will perform.
15. What is the best way to tame a wild horse?
Approach the horse slowly and study it. Then, use your lasso, and after mounting the horse, you have to balance its movements, calming it down. Each wild horse presents a different experience, but patience is key.
Conclusion
In the end, while personal preference plays a role, the Rose Grey Bay Arabian stands out as the pinnacle of horseflesh in RDR2’s story mode. Although you’ll have to wait until after the main story to acquire this magnificent steed, its superior performance makes it worth the wait. Pair it with a premium saddle, build your bonding level, and enjoy the feeling of exploring the open-world on what is arguably the game’s best horse.