In the sprawling, unforgiving landscape of Red Dead Redemption 2, your horse is more than just a mode of transportation; it’s your most trusted companion, a vital partner in your outlaw journey. Choosing the “best” horse isn’t just about speed or raw power; it’s about finding a steed that perfectly complements your playstyle and the narrative unfolding around you. As you traverse the plains, engage in thrilling shootouts, and evade the law, the bond you form with your horse becomes central to the RDR2 experience. This guide delves into the top contenders for the best horse in RDR2’s story mode, considering their unique attributes and how they contribute to your legendary tale.
Understanding Horse Stats in Red Dead Redemption 2
Before we crown a champion, it’s essential to understand what makes a horse “good” in RDR2. Each horse possesses several core stats:
- Health: Determines how much damage the horse can sustain before dying.
- Stamina: Governs how long the horse can run at its top speed.
- Speed: The horse’s maximum running speed.
- Acceleration: How quickly the horse reaches its top speed.
- Coupling: Affects how much stamina drain is reduced when riding.
- Pacing: Influences how quickly stamina regenerates.
Beyond these core stats, horses also have different Temperaments. This influences how they react to stressful situations, such as gunfire or predators. A brave horse will stand its ground, while a skittish one might buck you off. Finally, Coat and Breed also play a role in aesthetics and, sometimes, subtle performance differences.
The Iconic American Standardbred: A Storyteller’s Choice
When considering the narrative of RDR2, few horses embody the spirit of Arthur Morgan’s journey quite like the American Standardbred. While not the absolute fastest or toughest horse in the game, the Standardbred excels in its balanced stats and its readily available nature early in the game.
Why the American Standardbred Shines in Story Mode:
- Versatility: With solid all-around stats, the Standardbred is adept at everything from long-distance travel to quick getaways. Its Health and Stamina are respectable, making it reliable for extended missions.
- Availability: You can acquire a Standardbred relatively early in Chapter 2, allowing you to form a deep bond with it throughout your playthrough. This early companionship is crucial for the storytelling aspect of RDR2.
- Temperament: The Standardbred generally exhibits a brave temperament, making it a dependable partner during intense firefights and chaotic encounters. It’s less likely to panic and throw you off when the lead starts flying.
- Aesthetic Appeal: Its sleek build and variety of coat colors make it a visually pleasing companion, fitting seamlessly into the game’s stunning world.
The American Standardbred is the horse of the people, the workhorse that can handle the diverse challenges Arthur faces. It’s the horse that will see you through thick and thin, from delivering letters to outrunning posses. If you’re looking for a horse that grows with your legend, the Standardbred is an excellent choice.
The Majestic Arabian: Speed and Elegance Personified
For players who prioritize speed and a touch of refinement, the Arabian horse, particularly the White Arabian, stands out. This breed is renowned for its superior speed and acceleration, making it a top-tier choice for those who want to cover ground quickly and elegantly.
The Allure of the Arabian:
- Exceptional Speed & Acceleration: The Arabian consistently ranks among the fastest horses in RDR2. Its quick acceleration means you can reach top speed in a flash, perfect for escaping ambushes or reaching objectives in record time.
- High Stamina & Pacing: While its Health might not be the highest, the Arabian’s Stamina pool is impressive, and its Pacing stat ensures that stamina regenerates efficiently. This allows for sustained high-speed gallops.
- Refined Handling: Arabians often feel more responsive and agile, making them a joy to maneuver through challenging terrain.
- The White Arabian: This specific coat variant is arguably the most iconic and is available for free relatively early in the game (though it can be tricky to find and tame). Its striking appearance makes it a status symbol among players.
While the Arabian might be a bit more delicate in terms of Health compared to some war horses, its speed and agility make it an invaluable asset for players who rely on outmaneuvering their opponents. It’s the horse for the player who values finesse and swiftness in their outlaw pursuits.
The Robust Turkoman: Power and Endurance Combined
If your playthrough involves a lot of combat and you anticipate needing a horse that can take a beating and keep going, the Turkoman is a formidable contender. Known for its impressive Health and Stamina stats, the Turkoman is built for endurance and resilience.
Standing Out with the Turkoman:
- High Health and Stamina: The Turkoman boasts some of the best Health and Stamina ratings in the game, meaning it can withstand significant damage and sustain high-speed pursuits for longer periods.
- Good Speed and Acceleration: While not quite as zippy as the Arabian, the Turkoman still offers very respectable Speed and Acceleration, ensuring it’s no slouch when you need to move.
- Brave Temperament: Like many of the top-tier breeds, the Turkoman generally exhibits a brave temperament, making it a reliable mount in chaotic combat scenarios.
- Impressive Build: Its powerful physique gives it a commanding presence, fitting for an outlaw who relies on strength and determination.
The Turkoman is the quintessential war horse. It’s the steed that will charge into battle alongside you, absorb enemy fire, and carry you through the most dangerous encounters. For players who want a horse that’s as tough as they are, the Turkoman is an excellent, albeit costly, investment.
The Enduring Missouri Fox Trotter: A Blend of Speed and Stamina
The Missouri Fox Trotter is another exceptional breed that offers a fantastic balance of speed, stamina, and handling. It’s a premium horse that players often seek out for its all-around excellence, making it a favorite for both combat and long-distance travel.
Why the Missouri Fox Trotter is a Top Choice:
- Excellent Speed and Stamina: This breed offers a superb combination of high speed and a generous stamina pool, allowing for prolonged, fast-paced rides without much compromise.
- Great Acceleration: It reaches its top speed relatively quickly, which is a significant advantage in dynamic situations.
- Smooth Handling: The Fox Trotter is known for its smooth gait and responsive controls, making it enjoyable to ride and easy to navigate through complex environments.
- High Bonding Potential: Like all horses, forming a strong bond with a Missouri Fox Trotter unlocks its full potential and can lead to even better performance.
While the Missouri Fox Trotter is one of the more expensive horses to purchase, its balanced stats and smooth performance make it a worthwhile investment for players who want a reliable and capable mount for the entirety of their RDR2 story.
How to Choose Your Best Horse
The “best” horse in RDR2’s story mode ultimately depends on your personal playstyle and preferences:
- For the narrative-driven player who wants a companion: The American Standardbred is an excellent choice due to its early availability and balanced stats, allowing for a deep bond throughout Arthur’s story.
- For the speed demon and elite rider: The Arabian (especially the White Arabian) offers unmatched speed and acceleration, perfect for quick escapes and objective rushes.
- For the combat-focused outlaw: The Turkoman provides the resilience and endurance needed to survive intense firefights and lengthy pursuits.
- For the all-around performer: The Missouri Fox Trotter delivers a premium experience with its excellent blend of speed, stamina, and handling.
Remember, a horse’s true potential is unlocked through bonding. Spend time with your chosen steed, groom it, feed it, and ride it frequently. As your bond level increases, your horse’s stats will improve, making it even more capable and responsive.
Ultimately, the best horse in RDR2’s story mode is the one that feels right for you, the one that becomes an extension of Arthur Morgan himself, carrying you through the unforgettable narrative Rockstar Games has crafted. Happy trails!
