The world of Red Dead Redemption 2 is vast, rugged, and best explored from the back of a trustworthy steed. While you can purchase fine horses from stables, there’s a unique satisfaction that comes from finding and taming a mount out in the wilderness. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about the Wild Horses Rdr2 Story Mode has to offer, from the taming process to the locations of the rarest breeds.
Exploring the frontier and finding your own horse is a core part of the cowboy experience. Taming a wild horse isn’t just about getting a free mount; it’s about forming a bond from the very beginning, turning a free-roaming spirit into your loyal companion. Plus, some of the best horses in the game, like the legendary White Arabian, can only be found roaming free.
How to Tame a Wild Horse: A Step-by-Step Guide
Before you can gallop across the plains on your new companion, you first need to earn its trust. Taming a wild horse in RDR2 requires patience and a gentle touch. Follow these steps for a successful break-in.
Step 1: Find a Herd and Choose Your Horse
Wild horses often travel in small herds. You can find them in open plains, valleys, and sometimes in forested areas. Use your binoculars to scan a herd from a distance. This allows you to inspect their breed and coat without startling them. Once you’ve set your sights on a specific horse, the real work begins.
Step 2: The Slow Approach
Dismount your current horse and approach your target on foot, moving slowly and cautiously.
- Hold the “Lock-On” button to focus on the horse. A white bar will appear in the bottom-right corner of your screen; this is its alert level.
- Crouch and move forward. If the bar starts to fill up and flash red, the horse is getting spooked. Stop immediately.
- While locked on, you’ll have the option to “Calm” the horse. Press this button repeatedly as you inch closer. The horse may get agitated, but speaking to it calmly will slowly build its trust.
Step 3: Patting and Mounting
Once you’re close enough, the prompt to “Pat” the horse will appear. Give it a few reassuring pats to solidify its trust. After this, you will have the option to mount it. Be ready, as this is where the challenge truly begins.
Step 4: Breaking the Horse
As soon as you jump on its back, the horse will try to buck you off. To stay on, you must counterbalance its movements using the left analog stick.
- If the horse lurches forward, pull back on the stick.
- If it bucks to the left, push the stick to the right.
- The key is to move the stick in the opposite direction of the horse’s bucking.
Continue to do this while repeatedly pressing the “Calm” button. After a short while, the horse will cease its struggle, and a notification will appear, informing you that you have successfully broken the horse. It is now temporarily yours. To make it your main horse, you’ll need to place your saddle on it.
A player character in Red Dead Redemption 2 slowly approaching a wild Mustang in the Heartlands to begin the taming process.
Prime Locations for Finding Wild Horses
The map in Red Dead Redemption 2 is dotted with hotspots for wild horse herds. Knowing where to look will significantly increase your chances of finding a high-quality mount. For those seeking specific breeds or just a reliable steed, exploring these areas is a must, a process similar to searching for rare horse locations rdr2 story mode.
The Heartlands, New Hanover
This vast, open area is arguably the best starting point for any would-be horse tamer. You can find a wide variety of common breeds here, including Morgans, Tennessee Walkers, and the occasional Mustang. The rolling plains make it easy to spot herds from a distance.
Big Valley, West Elizabeth
Nestled along the Little Creek River, Big Valley is a picturesque and fertile land that is home to some excellent wild horses. This is a reliable spawn point for the sturdy American Standardbred and powerful Mustangs. The scenery alone makes the trip worthwhile.
Lake Isabella, Ambarino
This is perhaps the most famous location for wild horses rdr2 story mode players seek. High in the snowy mountains of Ambarino, on the western bank of Lake Isabella, you will find the legendary White Arabian. This horse is one of the best in the game, boasting elite stats, and you can acquire it for free as early as Chapter 2. Be prepared for the cold and potential wolf attacks.
According to veteran RDR2 player, Dr. Jackson “Six-Gun” Miller, “Taming the White Arabian at Lake Isabella is a rite of passage. It tests your patience, your awareness of the environment, and rewards you with a steed that’s second to none. It’s not just a horse; it’s a statement.”
The Rarest Wild Horses and Their Unique Locations
While common horses are plentiful, a few rare and unique mounts are hidden across the world for dedicated explorers to find. These horses offer superior stats or one-of-a-kind coats.
The White Arabian
As mentioned, this elite horse is found near Lake Isabella. Its brilliant white coat makes it stand out against the snow, but it’s incredibly skittish. A patient approach is crucial. Its speed, acceleration, and handling are among the best in the game, making it a top-tier choice for any player.
Perlino Andalusian
Another rare gem, the Perlino Andalusian, can be found at a very specific location: Brandywine Drop, in the Roanoke Ridge area of New Hanover. This war horse has excellent health and stamina, making it a brave and reliable partner in a firefight. It won’t get spooked as easily as an Arabian.
Red Chestnut Arabian
Slightly less powerful than its white counterpart but still an excellent horse, the Red Chestnut Arabian can be found in the wild west of Lake Owanjila, near Strawberry. It’s often found on the hillsides and can be difficult to spot. This horse offers a great balance of speed and health.
Just like the main game, the variety of horses adds incredible depth, a concept familiar to players who’ve also explored story mode horses rdr2. The thrill of the hunt for these special mounts is a rewarding adventure in itself.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the best wild horse I can get early in the game?
The White Arabian, found near Lake Isabella, is available as soon as you can free-roam in Chapter 2. It has some of the best stats in the game and is completely free if you take the time to tame it.
Do wild horses have better stats than bought horses?
Generally, horses purchased from stables, especially in later chapters, have better overall stats. However, the rare wild horses, particularly the Arabians, are exceptions and possess elite-level stats that rival or even surpass many horses for sale.
Can my tamed wild horse be lost forever?
Yes. Once you tame a wild horse, you should immediately take it to a stable to register it and make it officially yours. If a temporary horse that hasn’t been stabled is lost or dies, it is gone for good.
How do I increase my bond with a newly tamed horse?
You can increase your bond by leading, patting, grooming, and feeding your horse. Simply riding it around will also gradually increase the bond. A higher bond level unlocks special maneuvers and improves the horse’s health and stamina.
Where can I find a Mustang?
Wild Mustangs are relatively common and can be found in the Heartlands in New Hanover and in the central part of Big Valley in West Elizabeth. They are known for their great health and stamina.
Conclusion: The Wild Awaits
The world of Red Dead Redemption 2 offers an immersive equestrian experience unlike any other. Chasing down and taming the various wild horses rdr2 story mode provides is more than just a means of transportation; it’s an adventure that connects you more deeply with the game’s stunningly beautiful and untamed world. From the common Morgan in the Heartlands to the majestic White Arabian in the snowy peaks, your perfect companion is out there waiting. So saddle up, ride out, and start your own horse care story.
