The Ultimate RDR2 Horse Showdown: Finding Your Perfect Steed
The question of the “best” horse in Red Dead Redemption 2 (RDR2) is a deceptively simple one. The short answer is that there’s no single, universally “best” horse. The Arabian breed consistently ranks high due to its excellent speed, acceleration, and handling, making it a popular choice for many players. However, the ideal horse for you depends entirely on your play style, priorities, and even what stage you’re at in the game. A workhorse might be preferable for early chapters, while speed becomes a premium later on. It also depends on individual player skills when it comes to handling a horse.
Diving Deep into the RDR2 Equine Landscape
RDR2’s horses are more than just modes of transportation; they’re companions, partners in crime (or justice), and deeply integrated into the game’s world and Arthur’s (or John’s) journey. The game boasts a diverse array of breeds, each with unique stats, appearances, and temperaments. Understanding these nuances is crucial to making an informed decision.
Understanding Key Horse Attributes
Before we delve into specific breeds, let’s break down the stats that define a horse’s performance:
- Health: Determines how much damage a horse can withstand. A higher health pool is essential for surviving gunfights, falls, and predator attacks.
- Stamina: Dictates how long a horse can sprint before tiring. Crucial for long-distance travel and escaping danger.
- Speed: The horse’s top speed. Obvious benefits for racing and covering ground quickly.
- Acceleration: How quickly the horse reaches its top speed. Important for responsiveness and agility.
- Handling: Determines how responsive the horse is to your commands. “Superior” handling allows for tighter turns and better control in challenging situations.
- Temperament: While not explicitly shown as a stat, temperament significantly impacts a horse’s bravery and how easily it spooks.
The Arabian: A Breed Apart (But Not Always the Best)
The Arabian is often touted as the pinnacle of RDR2 horseflesh, and for good reason. These horses boast exceptional speed, acceleration, and handling. They are agile, responsive, and a joy to ride, especially once you’ve reached maximum bonding level. However, they’re not without their drawbacks. Arabians are known for being easily spooked, especially by predators and gunfire. This can be frustrating, especially in combat situations where a skittish horse can leave you vulnerable. Also, some players find that the Arabian horse is too small for Arthur Morgan and looks disproportionate.
The different types of Arabian include:
- White Arabian: Found in the wild near Lake Isabella. A great free option, but slightly lower stats than the Rose Grey Bay and Black Arabians.
- Rose Grey Bay Arabian: Purchased from the Blackwater Stable after Chapter 6. Expensive but boasts excellent stats.
- Black Arabian: Purchased from the Saint Denis Stable after Chapter 4. A strong contender.
- Red Chestnut Arabian: Can only be obtained in Red Dead Online.
Challenging the Arabian Supremacy: Other Contenders
While the Arabian is a fantastic horse, several other breeds offer compelling alternatives:
- Missouri Fox Trotter: A versatile breed, excelling in both speed and stamina. The Missouri Fox Trotter is a reliable workhorse and fast racer. It is a great all-around choice for players.
- Turkoman: A brave and hardy horse with good speed and health. Excellent for combat and predator encounters, as it is less likely to spook.
- Nokota: Primarily a racehorse, with exceptional speed and acceleration. However, it lacks in health and stamina compared to other top breeds.
- Thoroughbred: Another racehorse option, with a focus on speed. The Brindle Thoroughbred, obtained through pre-order bonuses or special editions, is particularly desirable.
- Mustang: A well-rounded breed known for its stamina and bravery. An excellent choice for Arthur Morgan’s dependable horse that can be found in the wild.
Early Game Options: Reliable and Affordable
You won’t have access to the top-tier horses early in the game, so choosing a solid starter horse is important. The Tennessee Walker, and American Standardbred are decent free starter horses. The Dutch Warmblood is available for purchase and provides a good balance of health and stamina. Remember that bonding with your horse is crucial, as it improves their stats and responsiveness regardless of breed.
The Importance of Bonding
No discussion about RDR2 horses is complete without emphasizing the importance of bonding. As you spend time with your horse, feeding, grooming, and riding them, you’ll increase your bonding level. Each level unlocks perks like increased health, stamina, and improved handling. A fully bonded horse is significantly more capable than one you’ve just acquired, regardless of its breed.
Saddles, Stirrups, and Equipment
Your horse’s performance is also heavily influenced by the saddle and stirrups you equip. High-quality saddles offer stamina and health bonuses, while stirrups improve speed and acceleration. Invest in the best equipment you can afford to maximize your horse’s potential.
Conclusion: The Perfect Horse is the One You Love
Ultimately, the “best” horse in RDR2 is the one that best suits your individual needs and preferences. Experiment with different breeds, bonding levels, and equipment to find the perfect steed for your journey through the Wild West. Don’t be afraid to try something different – you might be surprised by what you discover. And remember, skill in controlling the horse is just as important as horse stats. It may take time to get used to new horses as they have differing temperament and personalities.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are 15 frequently asked questions to further enhance your understanding of the RDR2 equine landscape:
1. What is the fastest horse in RDR2?
The Rose Gray Bay Arabian is often cited as the fastest due to its combination of high speed and acceleration. Some racehorse breeds might reach slightly higher top speeds, but their acceleration is generally lower.
2. What is the bravest horse in RDR2?
The Turkoman is renowned for its bravery and resistance to being spooked by predators and gunfire. The Hungarian Halfbred is another brave option.
3. Where can I find the White Arabian?
The White Arabian can be found in the wild, near Lake Isabella, located in the northwestern part of the map. Be prepared for cold weather and potential predator encounters.
4. How do I tame a wild horse in RDR2?
Approach the horse slowly and carefully. When prompted, repeatedly press the “Calm” button while moving slowly toward it. Once you’re close enough, mount the horse and try to stay on while it bucks. Repeatedly brace against its movements until it is tamed.
5. What is the best saddle in RDR2?
The Nacogdoches Saddle is generally considered the best, offering significant boosts to stamina and stamina regeneration.
6. How do I increase my horse bonding level?
Increase bonding by riding your horse, grooming it, feeding it, and calming it when it gets scared.
7. What is the best horse for Arthur Morgan?
The Mustang is a well-rounded horse that will be suitable for Arthur Morgan’s character.
8. Can I lose my horse permanently in RDR2?
Yes, if your horse dies, it is permanently gone unless you have a horse insurance. So, be careful and protect your steed. Horse insurance is only available in Red Dead Online.
9. What happens if my horse bucks me off?
You’ll be dismounted, and your horse may run away. If you’re in a dangerous area, this can leave you vulnerable.
10. Where can I buy horses in RDR2?
Horses can be purchased at stables located in various towns and cities throughout the game world.
11. What is the most expensive horse in RDR2?
The Rose Grey Bay Arabian is one of the most expensive, costing $1,250.
12. What is the best early-game horse in RDR2?
The Dutch Warmblood is a solid choice, offering a good balance of health and stamina early in the game.
13. How do I revive a dead horse in RDR2?
You can use a Horse Reviver to bring a horse back to life if it’s been critically injured but not completely dead.
14. Are all horses created equal in RDR2?
No, horses have different stats depending on their breed and type. Some are faster, braver, or have more stamina.
15. Can I customize my horse’s appearance in RDR2?
Yes, you can customize your horse’s appearance with different saddles, blankets, and other accessories. You can also change its mane and tail style at stables.