Choosing the right horse in Red Dead Redemption 2’s story mode can significantly impact your gameplay experience, from completing missions efficiently to exploring the vast open world. While many factors contribute to a horse’s performance, such as breed, stats, and bonding level, certain horses stand out as the best options available. This guide will delve into what makes a horse “the best” and highlight some top contenders that will serve you well throughout Arthur Morgan’s journey. Understanding the nuances of horse statistics and how they translate to real-world performance is key to making an informed decision.
The “best” horse is subjective and depends on your playstyle. However, generally, players look for a combination of high Speed, Acceleration, Stamina, and Health stats. While all horses improve with bonding, some breeds naturally possess superior base stats. The early game offers decent horses, but as you progress, more formidable steeds become available, especially in later chapters. For those seeking the absolute pinnacle of performance, exploring the legendary horses and specific breeds known for their prowess is recommended. If you’re curious about how these magnificent creatures compare, understanding the core statistics will help you identify the fastest horse in Red Dead Redemption 2 story mode or the most resilient for long journeys.
Understanding Horse Stats in Red Dead Redemption 2
Before diving into specific recommendations, it’s crucial to understand the four main stats that define a horse’s performance:
- Health: This represents the horse’s overall well-being and how much damage it can sustain before collapsing or dying. Higher Health means your horse can withstand more punishment in shootouts or from environmental hazards.
- Stamina: This governs the horse’s energy reserves. Stamina drains when you sprint or urge the horse on. A horse with higher Stamina can maintain its top speed for longer periods. You can replenish Stamina by calming the horse or consuming tonics.
- Speed: This stat determines the horse’s maximum velocity. A faster horse can cover ground more quickly, essential for races, escapes, or reaching objectives on time.
- Acceleration: This affects how quickly a horse reaches its top speed. A horse with high Acceleration will feel more responsive and quicker to get going, which is invaluable in sudden combat encounters or when needing a quick burst of speed.
Bonding with your horse is paramount. As your bond level increases, your horse’s base stats effectively improve, and you unlock new abilities like drift turns and enhanced stamina regeneration. Therefore, even a horse with lower base stats can become a formidable companion through consistent care and use. For players focused on speed, prioritizing Acceleration and Speed stats is often the goal, similar to how one might seek out the fastest horses in rdr2 story mode.
Top Horse Breeds to Consider
Red Dead Redemption 2 features a diverse range of horse breeds, each with unique characteristics. Here are some of the most noteworthy for their performance in story mode:
Arabian Horse
The Arabian is consistently ranked among the best horses in the game, particularly for its exceptional stats and elegant appearance. There are three main variations available in story mode:
- White Arabian: This horse can be found and tamed in the wild in the snowy region of Lake Isabella, west of the “W” in “Wallace Station.” It boasts excellent Speed and Acceleration, making it a fantastic all-around horse. Its Health and Stamina are also very respectable, especially once bonded.
- Black Arabian: This breed is available for purchase at stables in later chapters. It offers similar top-tier stats to the White Arabian, providing a slightly different aesthetic.
- Rose Grey Arabian: Another stable purchase, this variant also offers competitive stats, making it a strong choice for players who value agility and speed.
The Arabian’s relatively light build contributes to its quick acceleration and nimble handling. For players who enjoy the thrill of a fast chase or need to maneuver through tight spots, the Arabian is an excellent choice. Its balanced stats make it a versatile steed, capable of handling most situations the game throws at you.
Turkoman Horse
The Turkoman is a breed known for its speed and significant health, making it a robust option for players who engage in frequent combat or long-distance travel. They are often available for purchase in stables as you progress through the story.
- Chestnut Turkoman: This variant is often cited for its impressive speed and stamina, combined with solid health. It’s a great horse for missions that require covering a lot of ground quickly while potentially facing danger.
- Black Turkoman: Similar to the Chestnut variant, the Black Turkoman offers a powerful combination of speed and resilience.
The Turkoman’s larger frame compared to the Arabian means it might not accelerate quite as quickly, but its sustained speed and toughness are exceptional. It’s a reliable workhorse that won’t let you down when the going gets tough. Many players find this breed to be a perfect blend for the demanding world of Red Dead Redemption 2.
Missouri Fox Trotter
If you’re looking for a horse that excels in both speed and stamina, the Missouri Fox Trotter is a top-tier choice. Available for purchase in stables in Chapter 4 and beyond, this breed is renowned for its incredibly fast gait and high endurance.
- Silver Turkoman: While not a Turkoman, this horse’s name is sometimes confused. The Missouri Fox Trotter, particularly the Silver coat, offers some of the highest Speed and Stamina stats in the game. Its Acceleration is also very good, and Health is respectable.
The Missouri Fox Trotter is often considered one of the best overall horses due to its blend of speed, acceleration, and stamina. It handles well and its top-end stats are among the highest available, making it a strong contender for players who want the absolute best. Its ability to maintain high speeds for extended periods is invaluable for long journeys across the map.
Other Notable Horses and Considerations
While the Arabian, Turkoman, and Missouri Fox Trotter are often highlighted, other horses can also be excellent choices depending on your needs and when you acquire them.
Mustang
The Mustang is a wild horse breed known for its resilience and good all-around stats, particularly Stamina and Health. You can find and tame Mustangs in the wild, making them an accessible option relatively early in the game. While they may not reach the absolute top speeds of the Arabians or Missouri Fox Trotters, their hardiness makes them excellent for players who prefer a more rugged companion. Their ability to withstand punishment and maintain stamina makes them suitable for extended exploration and combat.
Dutch Warmblood
The Dutch Warmblood is another breed that offers a good balance of stats. Available for purchase, these horses provide solid Speed, Stamina, and Health, making them a reliable choice throughout the game. They are often a step up from the starting horses and offer a good balance for players who haven’t yet reached the availability of the higher-tier breeds. Their dependable performance makes them a solid choice for many players.
Wild Horses and Unique Finds
Throughout your adventures, you might encounter unique wild horses or those belonging to specific characters. While not always possessing the highest stats, some of these can be quite capable. For instance, discovering a new horse in rdr2 story mode and taming it can be a rewarding experience, and some may surprise you with their performance. Remember that bonding with any horse you acquire can significantly boost its capabilities. Even if you start with a horse that isn’t top-tier, investing time in it can make it a valuable partner.
How to Get the Best Horse in RDR2 Story
Acquiring the best horses in RDR2 Story mode generally involves a combination of exploration, purchase, and progression:
- Exploration and Taming: Breeds like the Arabian (White) and Mustang can be found in the wild. Explore different regions of the map, particularly stables and surrounding wilderness areas, to find these horses. Taming a wild horse requires a mini-game, but it’s a free way to acquire a high-quality steed.
- Stables Purchase: As you advance through the story, new horses become available for purchase at stables. The best breeds, like the Black Arabian, Turkoman, and Missouri Fox Trotter, are typically unlocked in later chapters (Chapter 4 onwards). Keep an eye on your available funds, as these top-tier horses can be quite expensive.
- Story Progression: Certain missions might reward you with a horse, or specific characters might have unique horses that you can eventually acquire. Following the new horses rdr2 story content can sometimes lead to obtaining excellent mounts.
Investing in a good horse is an investment in your overall gameplay experience. It enhances your ability to complete missions, explore the world, and survive challenging encounters. For many, the goal is to get the best horse in rdr2 story mode as early as possible, but patience and progression are often required.
Maximize Your Horse’s Potential
Regardless of the breed you choose, maximizing your horse’s potential is crucial. This involves:
- High Bonding Level: Consistently ride, brush, feed, and calm your horse. This increases its stats and unlocks vital abilities. A level 4 bonded horse performs significantly better than a level 1 horse.
- Horse Care: Keep your horse’s Health and Stamina cores full by feeding it quality feed (like oatcakes or hay) or using tonics. A horse with depleted cores will perform poorly, regardless of its breed or bonding level.
- Saddle and Stirrups: Equipping better saddles and stirrups can provide passive boosts to your horse’s core stats, particularly Stamina regeneration and overall capacity. These can be purchased at stable shops.
By focusing on these aspects, even a “good” horse can feel like the “best” horse in Red Dead Redemption 2 story mode for your playstyle. The journey with your horse is as much a part of the story as Arthur’s own narrative.
Frequently Asked Questions about RDR2 Horses
Q: What is the absolute fastest horse in RDR2 Story Mode?
A: While stats can vary slightly with bonding and equipment, the Missouri Fox Trotter and the Arabian breeds (White, Black, Rose Grey) are generally considered the fastest due to their high Speed and Acceleration stats.
Q: Can I get a legendary horse in Story Mode?
A: Red Dead Redemption 2 features unique, powerful horses that can be considered “legendary” due to their exceptional stats and rarity, such as the White Arabian found in the wild. There isn’t a specific “legendary horse” category like with the legendary animals, but these top-tier breeds function as such.
Q: How much does the best horse cost in RDR2 Story Mode?
A: The most expensive and highest-statted horses, like the Missouri Fox Trotter or Black Arabian, can cost upwards of $1,000-$1,500 in-game currency. It’s advisable to save up money earned from missions and activities.
Q: Is bonding with your horse really that important?
A: Yes, bonding is extremely important. As your bond increases, your horse’s base stats effectively improve, its cores become larger, and you unlock essential abilities like the four-beat sprint and the ability to sideways drift.
Q: Should I buy a horse or tame one?
A: Taming wild horses like the White Arabian or Mustangs is a great way to get a high-quality horse for free. However, buying horses from stables often gives you access to a wider variety and specific breeds earlier in the game, though at a significant cost.
Conclusion: Finding Your Perfect Gallop
In conclusion, the quest for the best horse in Red Dead Redemption 2’s story mode is a rewarding part of the overall experience. Whether you prioritize raw speed, robust health, or a balanced combination, breeds like the Arabian, Turkoman, and Missouri Fox Trotter offer top-tier performance. Remember that consistent care, high bonding levels, and the right equipment can elevate any horse to its maximum potential. Explore the world, experiment with different breeds, and ultimately, choose the companion that best suits your adventurous spirit as you traverse the Wild West. The story of your journey is written with every hoofbeat, so choose wisely and enjoy the ride.
