Red Dead Redemption 2 offers a vast, immersive world, and navigating it is made immeasurably better with the right steed. Choosing the “best” horse isn’t just about speed; it involves considering a horse’s overall stats, temperament, and suitability for different gameplay styles. Whether you’re a bounty hunter, a collector, or just a cowboy exploring the frontier, understanding your equine options is key to a superior RDR2 story mode experience. This guide will delve into what makes a horse truly exceptional in the game, helping you find your perfect partner for the journey.
Understanding Horse Stats and Bonding
Before diving into specific breeds, it’s crucial to grasp how horse stats work in Red Dead Redemption 2. Each horse possesses several key attributes:
- Health: Represents the horse’s stamina and resilience. Higher health means your horse can take more damage before collapsing.
- Stamina: Determines how long your horse can sprint before its stamina bar depletes. Upgrading your horse’s bonding level significantly increases stamina regeneration and maximum stamina.
- Speed: The horse’s maximum running speed. This is crucial for covering long distances quickly.
- Acceleration: How quickly the horse reaches its top speed. This is vital for quick bursts of speed, like escaping ambushes or chasing down targets.
- Braking: How effectively the horse can stop. Good braking is essential for precise maneuvers and avoiding obstacles.
- Health Core and Stamina Core: Similar to Arthur’s cores, these determine the horse’s overall well-being and performance. Keeping them full through brushing, feeding, and equipping better tack will improve your horse’s capabilities.
Bonding Levels: As you ride, care for, and use your horse, your bond level increases. Each level unlocks new abilities, such as improved stamina regeneration, the ability to learn new gaits (like the drift), and better performance overall. Maxing out your bond (Level 4) is essential for getting the most out of any horse.
Top Contenders for the Best Horse in RDR2 Story Mode
While personal preference plays a role, certain breeds consistently rise to the top due to their superior stats and performance. Here are some of the best horses you can acquire during the RDR2 story mode:
1. Buell (War Horse – Acquired via Penelope Braithwaite)
- Stats: Excellent Health, good Stamina, solid Speed and Acceleration.
- Acquisition: This horse is unique and can be acquired during the mission “The Deluge” in Chapter 6. You’ll have the option to save Penelope Braithwaite’s horse, Buell, from drowning. If you do, it will be stabled for you afterwards.
- Why it’s great: Buell is a powerful and sturdy war horse with impressive health, making it very resilient. Its balanced stats make it a reliable all-around companion for any situation. It’s a true survivor’s steed, embodying the ruggedness of the RDR2 world.
2. The White Arabian (Elite Horse)
- Stats: High Speed and Acceleration, decent Stamina, lower Health compared to War horses.
- Acquisition: Found wild in the snowy region of Lake Isabella, west of Valentine. You can tame it relatively early in the game, though it requires patience and skill.
- Why it’s great: The White Arabian is arguably the most iconic horse in RDR2, renowned for its stunning appearance and blistering speed. Its acceleration is top-notch, allowing for rapid bursts of movement. While its health is not as high as some others, its agility and speed make it excellent for exploration and quick getaways. Many players consider it the best for its sheer exhilaration and responsiveness.
3. Black Arabian (Elite Horse)
- Stats: Similar to the White Arabian – high Speed and Acceleration, good Stamina, lower Health.
- Acquisition: Can be purchased at the Blackwater Stable after completing the mission “Eastward Bound” in Chapter 4.
- Why it’s great: If you miss out on the White Arabian or prefer a darker coat, the Black Arabian is an excellent alternative. It offers the same thrilling performance characteristics, making it a fantastic choice for players who prioritize speed and agility.
4. Turkoman (Elite Horse)
- Stats: High Speed and Acceleration, good Stamina, and notably better Health than the Arabians.
- Acquisition: Can be purchased at the stables in Saint Denis, Tumbleweed, and Blackwater starting from Chapter 4.
- Why it’s great: The Turkoman strikes an excellent balance between the speed of the Arabians and the durability of War horses. It’s a sophisticated and powerful steed that excels in both long-distance travel and intense pursuits. Its higher health makes it more forgiving than the Arabians during combat.
5. Missouri Fox Trotter (Elite Horse)
- Stats: Exceptional Speed and Stamina, good Acceleration, and solid Health.
- Acquisition: Available for purchase at the Blackwater and Tumbleweed stables starting from Chapter 4. The Silver dapple variation is particularly striking.
- Why it’s great: The Missouri Fox Trotter is a true powerhouse, often considered one of the best all-around horses in the game. Its combination of speed, stamina, and decent health makes it incredibly versatile. Whether you’re traversing the plains or engaging in a shootout, this horse performs admirably. Its smooth gait also contributes to a comfortable ride.
Horses for Specific Playstyles
While the horses listed above are generally top-tier, your choice might depend on how you play RDR2’s story mode:
- For Explorers and Speed Demons: The White Arabian, Black Arabian, and Missouri Fox Trotter are unparalleled. Their high speed and acceleration allow you to cover the massive map efficiently and enjoy the scenery.
- For Combat and Durability: Buell, Shire, and Ardennes horses (found as wild or purchased early on) offer superior Health, making them better suited for sustained combat scenarios where your horse might take hits. War horses, in general, are built for this.
- For Balanced Performance: The Turkoman and Missouri Fox Trotter offer a fantastic blend of speed, stamina, and durability, making them excellent choices for players who want a reliable partner for all aspects of the game.
How to Get the Best Performance from Your Horse
Regardless of the breed you choose, maximizing your horse’s performance is crucial:
- Max Out Your Bonding Level: As mentioned, this is non-negotiable. Regular interaction, grooming, feeding, and riding will get you to Level 4 bonding, unlocking the horse’s full potential.
- Invest in Tack: Purchase the best saddlebags, stirrups, and saddles available at the stable. These upgrades provide significant boosts to your horse’s Health and Stamina cores, as well as regeneration rates. The Nacogdoches saddle is often cited as the best in the game.
- Keep Your Horse Fed and Clean: Regularly feed your horse tonics or food, and brush it to keep its cores full and regenerating optimally. A neglected horse will perform poorly.
- Learn Your Horse’s Strengths: Understand if your horse excels in speed, stamina, or durability, and ride accordingly. Pushing a horse beyond its limits will only slow you down.
Conclusion: Finding Your Perfect Companion
The “Best Horse In Rdr2 Story Mode” is ultimately a personal choice, influenced by your playstyle and aesthetic preferences. However, breeds like the Turkoman, Missouri Fox Trotter, and the elusive Arabians offer statistically superior performance that can significantly enhance your Red Dead Redemption 2 experience. Buell stands out for its unique acquisition and robust nature. By understanding horse stats, bonding levels, and investing in proper care and tack, you can ensure your chosen steed is not just a mode of transport, but a true partner on your journey through the untamed American West. Happy trails!
