Red Dead Redemption 2’s world is vast, and navigating its sprawling landscapes is made infinitely better with a trusty steed. But with so many breeds and variations, figuring out the best horse in RDR2 story mode can feel like a quest in itself. Whether you’re a seasoned outlaw or just starting your journey, understanding which horse best suits your needs can significantly impact your gameplay experience. From raw speed to endurance and handling, each horse has its strengths and weaknesses. Let’s break down what makes a horse “the best” and which ones truly stand out in the wild west.
Understanding Horse Stats in RDR2
Before diving into specific breeds, it’s crucial to understand how horse stats work in Red Dead Redemption 2. Each horse has five core attributes:
- Health: Represents the horse’s hit points. Higher health means it can withstand more damage.
- Stamina: Determines how long your horse can sprint before becoming fatigued. This can be replenished with horse tonics or by whistling for your horse.
- Speed: How fast the horse can gallop. This is crucial for quick escapes or covering long distances.
- Acceleration: How quickly the horse reaches its top speed. Important for getting out of sticky situations fast.
- Maneuverability: How well the horse turns and responds to commands. Essential for tight corners and navigating rough terrain.
Beyond these core stats, Bonding Level plays a significant role. As you bond with your horse, you unlock new maneuvers and increase its base stats (Health and Stamina). A Level 4 bonded horse will always perform better than a lower-bonded one of the same breed.
Top Contenders for the Best Horse in RDR2 Story Mode
While “best” is subjective and depends on your playstyle, several breeds consistently rank high in performance and desirability.
1. The Arabian Horse
Often cited as the best all-around horse, particularly the White Arabian, the Arabian breed excels in most categories, especially maneuverability and acceleration. They are quick to reach top speed and incredibly agile, making them perfect for navigating the game’s varied terrain and engaging in high-speed chases or escapes.
- White Arabian: Found in the wild at Lake Isabella in the Grizzlies. It’s a beautiful horse with good stats, though its health and stamina are not as high as some other top-tier horses. Its main strength lies in its exceptional handling.
- Black Arabian: Available for purchase at the Blackwater Stable after Chapter 6. It boasts slightly better stats than the White Arabian, particularly in health and stamina, making it a more robust option for extended journeys.
- Red Arabian: Available for purchase at the Saint Denis Stable after Chapter 6. Similar to the Black Arabian, it offers a good balance of stats.
Why it’s great: Their superior handling and acceleration make them feel incredibly responsive and quick. They are ideal for players who value agility and quick reflexes in combat or exploration.
2. The Turkoman Horse
The Turkoman is another breed that gives the Arabian a run for its money. They are known for their speed and stamina, making them excellent for long-distance travel and pursuits. While slightly less maneuverable than Arabians, their robust stats make them a formidable choice.
- Gold Turkoman: Available for purchase at the Tumbleweed Stable after Chapter 6. This variant has excellent speed and stamina, making it a powerhouse for covering vast distances.
- Silver Turkoman: Available for purchase at the Blackwater Stable after Chapter 6. Offers a great balance of speed, stamina, and health.
- Dark Bay Turkoman: Available for purchase at the Saint Denis Stable after Chapter 6. A solid all-around performer with good speed and endurance.
Why it’s great: If you’re embarking on long treks across the map or frequently find yourself in extended shootouts where sustained speed is key, the Turkoman is an excellent companion.
3. The Dutch Warmblood Horse
Dutch Warmbloods are often overlooked but offer a fantastic combination of strength, speed, and courage. They have good health and stamina, and their acceleration is quite respectable. They are also known for their bravery, meaning they are less likely to buck you off when predators or gunfire are nearby.
- Bay Dutch Warmblood: Available for purchase at the Scarlett Meadows Stable early in the game. This is a great early-to-mid-game option that remains competitive even later on.
- Imperial Dutch Warmblood: Available for purchase at the Blackwater Stable after Chapter 6. This variant often has slightly better stats, particularly in health and stamina, making it a very reliable mount.
Why it’s great: Their courage and solid stats make them reliable mounts for players who want a horse that can handle stressful situations without panicking. They offer a good blend of performance and hardiness.
4. The Missouri Fox Trotter
The Missouri Fox Trotter is renowned for its smooth gait and excellent stats, particularly in speed and stamina. They are fast, have great endurance, and their handling is quite good, though perhaps not as nimble as an Arabian. They also have a high “Courage” stat.
- Sleek Black Missouri Fox Trotter: Available for purchase at the Scarlett Meadows Stable after Chapter 4. This is a premium horse that offers excellent performance for its stage in the game.
- Silver Dapple Missouri Fox Trotter: Available for purchase at the Blackwater Stable after Chapter 6. This is arguably one of the best horses in the game, with top-tier stats across the board.
Why it’s great: For players who prioritize speed and endurance for long-distance travel and appreciate a horse that remains calm under pressure, the Fox Trotter is an outstanding choice. If you are looking for the best horse in rdr2 story, this is a strong candidate.
Horses to Consider for Specific Needs
While the above are top all-around performers, some horses might be better suited for specific playstyles or stages of the game.
Best Early Game Horse: American Standardbred
The American Standardbred, particularly the Buckskin variant, is available relatively early and offers good speed and acceleration for its accessibility. While not as hardy or fast as later-game horses, it’s a significant upgrade from starter horses and serves well until you can afford better.
Best for Courage: Shire Horse
If you find yourself constantly spooked by wolves or gunfire, a Shire horse might be for you. These large horses have immense health and stamina, and importantly, high courage. They are slower and less maneuverable than other breeds but are incredibly resilient and less prone to fear.
Best Budget-Friendly Option: Mustang
Mustangs are sturdy, good-tempered horses with decent stats, especially in stamina and handling. They are relatively affordable and can be found in the wild, making them a great option for players who want a solid horse without breaking the bank.
How to Get the Best Horse in RDR2 Story
Acquiring the best horses in RDR2 story mode typically involves one of two methods:
- Purchasing from Stables: Most of the top-tier horses, like the Black Arabian, Turkoman, and Silver Dapple Missouri Fox Trotter, can only be purchased from stables. However, their availability is often tied to your progression through the story. Higher-tier horses become available in later chapters.
- Taming Wild Horses: Breeds like the White Arabian and various Mustangs can be found and tamed in the wild. This is a free method, but it requires patience and skill to approach and bond with the horse.
Remember that bonding is key. No matter which horse you choose, investing time in leveling up your bond will significantly enhance its performance.
The Impact of Horse Choice on Gameplay
Choosing the right horse can fundamentally change how you experience Red Dead Redemption 2.
- Exploration: A fast and enduring horse like the Turkoman or Missouri Fox Trotter makes traversing the vast map much more enjoyable.
- Combat: Agile horses like the Arabians allow for quick repositioning during firefights, while brave horses reduce the chances of being dismounted at critical moments.
- Missions: Certain missions might benefit from a horse with specific traits. For instance, a quick horse for getaway missions or a sturdy one for escorting objectives.
Ultimately, the “best horse” is the one that best fits your personal playstyle and enhances your enjoyment of the game. Whether you’re after the raw speed of a Turkoman, the nimble agility of an Arabian, or the sheer bravery of a Shire, there’s a perfect equine partner waiting for you in the world of Red Dead Redemption 2. Experiment with different breeds, upgrade your bond, and find the steed that will carry you through countless adventures.
