Choosing your equine companion is one of the most critical decisions you’ll make in the sprawling world of Red Dead Redemption 2. The bond you form with your mount is more than just a means of transportation; it’s a partnership that will see you through vicious gunfights, treacherous mountain passes, and long journeys across the plains. When it comes to finding the Best Horse Rdr2 Story offers, players have several incredible options, each with unique strengths. Understanding these choices is key, and for many players, the ultimate ride is a matter of balancing stats, availability, and personal preference, making the discussion of the rdr2 best horse story mode a lively one.
What Defines the “Best” Horse in RDR2?
Before we crown a champion, it’s essential to understand what makes a horse stand out. In Red Dead Redemption 2, every horse is defined by a few key attributes that directly impact gameplay. When evaluating different rdr2 story horses, these are the stats you need to watch.
- Health: This determines how much damage your horse can sustain before being critically injured or killed. A horse with high health is a godsend in a firefight.
- Stamina: This dictates how long your horse can gallop at full speed before getting tired. High stamina is crucial for long-distance travel and outrunning the law.
- Speed and Acceleration: These two stats work together. Speed is the horse’s top velocity, while acceleration is how quickly it can reach that top speed. Both are displayed as bars in the game, which can be improved through better saddles and stirrups.
- Handling: This hidden stat is arguably one of the most important. Horses come with Standard, Race, Heavy, or Elite handling. Elite handling provides superior agility, allowing the horse to turn sharper and feel more responsive, which is invaluable when navigating dense forests or chaotic shootouts.
Top Contenders for the Best Horse in RDR2 Story
While many fine horses are available, a few consistently rise to the top of the conversation. These mounts offer a superior combination of stats and accessibility that make them prime candidates for Arthur Morgan’s adventures.
The White Arabian: The Ghost of the Mountains
For a significant portion of the player base, the White Arabian is the undisputed champion. What makes it so special? It’s one of the few horses in the game with Elite handling, making it feel incredibly nimble and responsive. Its base speed, acceleration, and health are also excellent. The biggest advantage, however, is its availability. You can find and tame this magnificent beast for free as early as Chapter 2. This is a game-changer, as it gives you access to an endgame-quality horse almost from the start. Learning where to find the best horse in rdr2 story often leads players straight to this location.
To find it, you must travel to the snowy western shore of Lake Isabella in the Grizzlies West region. The horse is wild and easily spooked, so you’ll need patience to calm and tame it. The effort is well worth it, as you’ll be rewarded with a top-tier mount that will serve you faithfully for the rest of your journey.
The Missouri Fox Trotter: The Gold Standard
If you prefer to buy your horse rather than tame it, the Missouri Fox Trotter is an incredible choice. It boasts one of the highest base speed stats in the game, making it a true speed demon perfect for covering vast distances quickly. Its health and stamina are also top-notch, creating a well-rounded and reliable partner.
The downside is its availability. The Missouri Fox Trotter only becomes available for purchase at stables later in the game. The Amber Champagne coat can be found at the Scarlett Meadows Stable starting in Chapter 4, while the Silver Dapple Pinto is available at the Blackwater Stable in the Epilogue. While you have to wait, its raw speed makes it a popular pick for players who prioritize getting from point A to B as fast as possible. The specific best horse rdr2 story location for these is tied directly to story progression.
The Turkoman: The Fearless War Horse
Are you a player who frequently finds themselves in the middle of a gunfight? If so, the Turkoman might be the horse for you. This breed is classified as a War/Race hybrid, and it excels in combat situations. Its standout feature is its exceptional health pool, which allows it to withstand more damage than most other top-tier horses. Furthermore, Turkoman horses are known for their bravery and are less likely to buck you off when predators or gunfire are nearby.
While its speed doesn’t quite match the Missouri Fox Trotter, it’s still very fast, and its reliability under fire is second to none. Different coats become available at various stables as you progress through the story, with the stunning Gold Turkoman available at the Saint Denis stable in Chapter 4.
Buell: A Unique and Heartfelt Option
There is one more horse worth mentioning, not just for its stats but for its story: Buell. This beautiful Dutch Warmblood belongs to a veteran named Hamish Sinclair, whom you can meet through the stranger mission series “The Veteran.” If you complete all of Hamish’s missions, he will bequeath Buell to you.
Buell has fantastic stats, boasting high health and stamina, making him a very sturdy and dependable mount. What truly sets him apart is the sentimental value. Acquiring Buell is the culmination of a memorable side story, creating a stronger connection than simply buying a horse from a stable. He’s a great horse with a great story, representing a unique prize for dedicated players.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the absolute best horse in RDR2 story mode?
The “best” is subjective, but the White Arabian is often considered the top choice because it’s a free, top-tier horse with elite handling that can be acquired very early in the game. For pure speed, the Missouri Fox Trotter is arguably superior, while the Turkoman excels in combat.
Can you lose the best horse permanently?
Yes. If your horse dies in Red Dead Redemption 2’s story mode, it is gone for good unless you reload a previous save. Always carry Horse Reviver to save your companion if it gets critically injured.
Does the horse’s gender matter in RDR2?
No, the gender of your horse has no impact on its stats, performance, or behavior in the game. It is purely a cosmetic difference.
How do I increase my horse’s stats?
You can permanently increase your horse’s Health and Stamina by reaching the maximum bonding level (Level 4). You can also temporarily boost these stats with tonics. Speed and Acceleration can be improved by equipping better saddles and stirrups.
Is the Rose Grey Bay Arabian better than the White Arabian?
The Rose Grey Bay Arabian, available at the Blackwater Stable in the Epilogue, has slightly better Health and Stamina stats than the White Arabian once fully bonded. However, the White Arabian’s early availability makes it the more practical choice for the main story.
The Final Verdict
Ultimately, the journey to find the best horse rdr2 story has to offer is a personal one. The free and agile White Arabian is an exceptional choice for players starting their adventure. For those who crave unmatched speed later in the game, the Missouri Fox Trotter is a worthy investment. And for gunslingers who need a brave and sturdy mount, the Turkoman is an unbeatable war horse. Whichever you choose, building a bond with your horse is one of the most rewarding aspects of Red Dead Redemption 2, turning your mount from a simple tool into a true partner in your wild west saga.
