In the sprawling, rugged world of Red Dead Redemption 2, your horse is more than just a mode of transportation; it’s your most loyal companion. A reliable steed can mean the difference between a clean getaway and becoming vulture food. But with so many breeds and stats to consider, finding the best Rdr2 Story Horses can be a daunting task. Whether you’re a seasoned outlaw or a fresh face in the Van der Linde gang, this guide will steer you toward the finest mounts the Old West has to offer.
Choosing the right horse involves balancing key stats: Health, Stamina, Speed, and Acceleration. Speed and Acceleration are crucial for chases and races, while Health and Stamina determine how much damage your horse can take and how long it can gallop before tiring. Bonding with your horse is also vital, as it unlocks special maneuvers and improves its stats. For a full breakdown of all horses in rdr2 story mode, understanding these mechanics is the first step.
The Elite Class: Arabian Horses
When it comes to top-tier horses, the Arabian breed is consistently at the top of the list. Known for their “Elite” handling, they are incredibly responsive and agile, making them a dream to ride. While they can be a bit skittish, their superior stats more than compensate.
The Legendary White Arabian
Perhaps the most famous of all rdr2 story horses, the White Arabian can be found and tamed for free, making it an exceptional choice for early in the game. You’ll find this majestic creature in the snowy wilderness, west of Lake Isabella. Be warned: taming it is a challenge. It’s incredibly wild and will bolt at the slightest disturbance. You’ll need patience to slowly approach, calm, and break it. With base stats of 6 Speed and 6 Acceleration, it’s a speed demon that, once fully bonded, is one of the best mounts in the game.
Black and Rose Grey Bay Arabians
If you prefer to purchase your steed, two other Arabian coats become available later in the story. The Black Arabian can be bought from the Saint Denis stable starting in Chapter 4. It boasts a well-rounded stat profile with slightly better health and stamina than its white counterpart. The Rose Grey Bay Arabian, the pinnacle of the breed, becomes available at the Blackwater stable during the epilogue. It has the highest health and stamina of the three, making it an absolute beast of a horse. Many players also seek out specific colors, with black horses rdr2 story being a popular search for those wanting a sleek, dark companion.
A guide to finding the best rdr2 story horses, featuring the iconic white Arabian horse in its natural snowy habitat near Lake Isabella.
The Powerhouses: Turkoman and Missouri Fox Trotter
While Arabians are fantastic, some players find them too small or skittish for intense combat. If you’re looking for a horse that’s less likely to buck you off when a gunfight breaks out, the Turkoman and Missouri Fox Trotter breeds are excellent alternatives. These breeds cleverly mix the attributes of different classes, giving you a more versatile mount.
The Resilient Turkoman
The Turkoman is a unique hybrid of a War and a Racehorse. This combination gives it great speed, solid health, and a calmer temperament in stressful situations. They aren’t easily spooked, making them reliable partners in a firefight. You can purchase different coats from various stables as you progress:
- Gold Turkoman: Available at the Saint Denis stable in Chapter 4.
- Dark Bay Turkoman: Available at the Blackwater stable in the Epilogue.
- Silver Turkoman: Available at the Tumbleweed stable in the Epilogue.
The Speedy Missouri Fox Trotter
Boasting the highest base speed in the game, the Missouri Fox Trotter is a mix of Race and Workhorse. This results in a lightning-fast steed with incredible stamina, perfect for traversing the massive game world. Like the Turkoman, they can only be purchased, not found in the wild. If you want to know everything about rdr2 all horses story mode, this breed is a must-have for your stable.
- Amber Champagne: Find this beauty at the Scarlett Meadows stable from Chapter 4 onwards.
- Silver Dapple Pinto: This coat becomes available at the Blackwater stable during the Epilogue.
How Do You Find the Best Horses?
Finding the best rdr2 story horses is an adventure in itself. Some are found in the wild, others are unlocked through story progression, and a few are rewards for specific missions.
Taming Wild Horses
For mounts like the White Arabian or the rare Brindle Arabian (found near Wapiti Indian Reservation), taming is your only option. The key is patience.
- Spot the horse: Use your binoculars to study it from a distance.
- Approach Slowly: Crouch and move toward it slowly. If it gets agitated, stop and calm it verbally.
- Pat and Mount: Once you’re close enough, you’ll get the option to pat the horse before mounting it.
- Break the Horse: Once you’re on, the horse will try to buck you. Counter its movements with the analog stick until it calms down.
“A horse is a reflection of the man who rides it. A steady hand and a calm heart will earn you the loyalty of the finest steed.” – Dr. Eleanor Ainsworth, Equine Behavior Specialist.
Purchasing from Stables
Most of the top-tier horses, including the Missouri Fox Trotter and Turkoman breeds, must be purchased. Stables in major towns like Saint Denis, Valentine, and Blackwater will update their stock as you advance through the story chapters. Always check back after significant story developments to see if new mounts are available. This is a core part of exploring all horses in rdr2 story mode.
A simple chart comparing the stats of the best rdr2 story horses, including the Arabian, Turkoman, and Missouri Fox Trotter.
Special and Unique Horses
Beyond the top breeds, several unique horses are worth mentioning. Buell, a beautiful Cremello Gold Dutch Warmblood, can be obtained by completing “The Veteran” stranger missions with Hamish Sinclair. He’s a strong, brave horse with a great story behind him. There are also a few instances where you can acquire rare coats through specific story missions, so always keep an eye out for any unique mounts. These rdr2 story rare horses offer not just great performance but also a unique look.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the single best horse in RDR2 Story Mode?
While it largely comes down to preference, the Rose Grey Bay Arabian, available in the epilogue, has the best overall stats. However, the White Arabian is the best free horse you can get early on, and the Missouri Fox Trotter has the highest base speed.
Can you lose a horse permanently?
Yes. If your horse is critically injured and you don’t revive it with a Horse Reviver before it bleeds out, it will be gone for good. Always carry revivers with you.
How do I increase my horse’s stats?
Bonding with your horse by feeding, brushing, and riding it will increase its Health and Stamina bars. Equipping high-quality saddles and stirrups will also provide significant boosts to its speed and acceleration.
Where is the best place to find wild horses?
The heartlands and the area around Little Creek River are great spots for finding a variety of wild horse breeds. For the rarest finds, you’ll need to venture to specific locations like Lake Isabella for the White Arabian.
Does horse size matter?
While not reflected in the core stats, larger horses like the Turkoman or Hungarian Half-bred tend to be less skittish in combat and around predators compared to the smaller, more sensitive Arabian.
Conclusion
Choosing your companion from the many rdr2 story horses is a deeply personal journey that shapes your experience in the world of Red Dead Redemption 2. The Arabian offers unparalleled agility and speed, while the Missouri Fox Trotter and Turkoman provide a balance of speed, health, and courage. Whether you spend hours tracking a legendary wild steed or save up your earnings for a prized mount from the stable, the bond you form with your horse is one of the most rewarding parts of the game. So saddle up, explore the vast frontier, and find the perfect four-legged partner for your adventures.
