RDR2 Chasing: Tips, Tricks, And Tactics For Mastering The Chase

Hey there, fellow outlaws and virtual cowboys! Ever found yourself in a high-stakes chase across the vast landscapes of Red Dead Redemption 2? Whether you're the one doing the chasing or desperately trying to outrun the law, mastering the art of the chase is crucial for survival and success in this epic open-world adventure. In this guide, we'll dive deep into the tips, tricks, and tactics you need to become a true master of the chase in RDR2. So saddle up, partner, and let's get started!

Understanding the Basics of Chasing in RDR2

Chasing in Red Dead Redemption 2 is more than just galloping after someone on horseback. It involves a combination of horsemanship, strategy, and awareness of your surroundings. Before we get into the advanced tactics, let's cover the fundamental aspects that every gunslinger should know.

Horse Selection and Bonding

Your horse is your most valuable asset during a chase. A well-chosen and well-bonded horse can make all the difference. Different breeds have different strengths – some are faster, some have more stamina, and some are more courageous. Consider what you need most for your playstyle. Are you constantly evading the law? Then a fast horse with high stamina is essential. Do you often find yourself in confrontations during chases? A brave horse that doesn't spook easily is the way to go.

Horse bonding is equally important. The higher your bonding level, the better your horse will perform. A fully bonded horse will have increased speed, stamina, and health. It will also be more responsive to your commands, making it easier to navigate through tricky terrain and avoid obstacles. To increase your bonding level, simply spend time with your horse – ride it, feed it, groom it, and pat it. The more you care for your horse, the more it will care for you, and the better it will perform during those crucial chase moments.

Mastering Horse Handling

Knowing how to handle your horse effectively is paramount. Practice controlling your horse at different speeds and in various terrains. Learn how to make sharp turns, drift around corners, and jump over obstacles without losing momentum. Pay attention to your horse's stamina; pushing it too hard will cause it to tire quickly, leaving you vulnerable. Use the calming technique (usually by pressing L3/LS) to soothe your horse when it gets agitated, especially during intense pursuits. Also, be mindful of your horse's health. Getting shot or crashing into objects can injure your horse, slowing it down and potentially leading to its death. Keep horse reviver handy in case of emergencies.

Weaponry and Combat on Horseback

Chases in RDR2 often involve gunfire, so being proficient in combat while on horseback is a must. Experiment with different weapons to find what works best for you. Revolvers and pistols are great for quick, accurate shots, while rifles and shotguns offer more firepower at the cost of slower reload times. The Lancaster Repeater is a popular choice for its high accuracy and fast rate of fire.

Practice aiming and shooting while moving. Use Dead Eye to slow down time and line up your shots. Be aware of your firing angles and adjust your position accordingly. Don't be afraid to use cover, such as trees and rocks, to protect yourself and your horse from enemy fire. Also, remember that you can use melee attacks while on horseback. A well-timed swipe with your knife or a heavy melee weapon can knock an enemy off their horse, giving you a significant advantage.

Offensive Chasing Tactics

When you're the one doing the chasing, your goal is to catch your target as quickly and efficiently as possible. Here are some tactics to help you close the gap and bring your quarry to justice (or exact your revenge).

Strategic Positioning and Cutting Off

Don't just blindly follow your target. Try to anticipate their movements and take strategic shortcuts to cut them off. Use the map to identify potential routes and plan your approach accordingly. For example, if your target is heading towards a narrow mountain pass, you might be able to intercept them by taking a detour through a less obvious path. Keep an eye on the terrain and use it to your advantage. Riding along higher ground can give you a better view of your target's movements and allow you to plan your next move.

Using Dead Eye Effectively

Dead Eye is your best friend during a chase. Use it to slow down time and line up accurate shots. Focus on disabling your target's horse rather than killing them outright. A well-placed shot to the horse's legs can bring it down, forcing your target to dismount and giving you a significant advantage. Alternatively, you can aim for the rider to wound or dismount them.

Experiment with different Dead Eye abilities. Some abilities allow you to target multiple enemies at once, while others increase your accuracy and damage. Choose the ability that best suits your situation. For example, if you're facing multiple pursuers, the ability to target multiple enemies can be a lifesaver.

Employing Tactical Maneuvers

Employing tactical maneuvers is essential to gaining the upper hand in a chase. Try to flank your target by approaching them from the side or rear. This can give you a better angle for shooting and make it harder for them to evade you. Use the environment to your advantage. If you're chasing someone through a forest, use the trees for cover and concealment. If you're in a rocky area, use the rocks to block your target's path or to create ambushes.

Consider using distractions to throw your target off course. Firing a shot in the air or throwing a fire bottle can startle their horse and cause them to lose control. You can also use other NPCs to your advantage. For example, if you're chasing someone through a town, try to maneuver them into a crowded area. This will make it harder for them to escape and give you opportunities to make a grab.

Defensive Chasing Tactics

Sometimes, you're the one being chased. When the law (or rival gang members) are hot on your heels, your priority is survival. Here's how to evade your pursuers and live to fight another day.

Evasion Techniques

Evasion is an art form in RDR2. The key is to be unpredictable and use the environment to your advantage. Try to break line of sight by riding through forests, canyons, or towns. Use sharp turns and changes in direction to throw off your pursuers. Jump over obstacles and take shortcuts to gain distance. If you're being chased at night, use the darkness to your advantage. Extinguish your lanterns to make yourself harder to spot. If you're near a river or lake, consider riding through the water. This can slow down your pursuers and make it harder for them to track you.

Be aware of your surroundings. Keep an eye out for potential ambush locations, such as narrow passes or dense forests. Avoid these areas if possible, or proceed with caution. If you suspect that you're being followed, try to confirm your suspicions. Stop and listen for the sounds of horses or gunshots. Look for tracks in the dirt or snow. If you're certain that you're being pursued, take evasive action immediately.

Utilizing Cover and Concealment

When you can't outrun your pursuers, use cover and concealment to your advantage. Find a defensible position, such as a rocky outcrop or a building, and prepare to fight. Use trees, rocks, and other objects to shield yourself from enemy fire. Try to position yourself so that you have a clear field of fire while minimizing your exposure to enemy fire.

Use smoke grenades to create cover and obscure your pursuers' vision. This can give you time to reposition yourself or escape. You can also use fire bottles to create obstacles and deter your pursuers from following you. If you're being chased through a town, use the buildings for cover and concealment. Duck into alleyways, climb onto rooftops, and use the crowds to your advantage.

Breaking Line of Sight and Going Off-Road

Breaking line of sight is crucial for evading your pursuers. The moment you can no longer see them, they have a much harder time tracking you. Ride through dense forests, navigate winding canyons, or use buildings in towns to your advantage. Going off-road can also help you lose your pursuers. Many players stick to the main roads, making them easy to follow. By venturing into the wilderness, you can take advantage of the rugged terrain and natural obstacles to throw off your pursuers.

Advanced Tips and Tricks

Ready to take your chasing skills to the next level? Here are some advanced tips and tricks that will give you an edge in any pursuit.

Mastering the Art of the Drift

The drift is a powerful technique that allows you to make sharp turns without losing speed. To drift, hold down the brake button (usually L1/LB) while turning. This will cause your horse to slide, allowing you to make tight turns and avoid obstacles. Mastering the drift takes practice, but it's well worth the effort. It can be a lifesaver in tight situations, such as navigating through a crowded town or evading pursuers in a narrow canyon.

Practice drifting in a safe area before attempting it in a chase. Find a wide-open space and experiment with different speeds and turning angles. Pay attention to how your horse responds and adjust your technique accordingly. Once you're comfortable with the basics, start practicing in more challenging environments.

Using Scent Cover

Scent cover is a useful tool for evading predators and pursuers. By applying a scent cover lotion, you can mask your scent and make it harder for animals and enemies to track you. This can be particularly useful when you're being chased through a forest or swamp. To use scent cover, simply apply the lotion from your inventory. The effect lasts for a limited time, so use it wisely.

Scent cover can also be used offensively. If you're hunting a particularly elusive animal, such as a cougar or a bear, applying scent cover can increase your chances of success. By masking your scent, you can get closer to the animal without alerting it to your presence.

Utilizing the Environment for Traps

The environment in RDR2 is full of opportunities for setting traps. Use your imagination and be creative. For example, you can set up an ambush by placing a wagon full of explosives in a narrow pass. When your pursuers approach, detonate the explosives and watch the fireworks. You can also use natural obstacles, such as cliffs and rivers, to your advantage. Lure your pursuers into a dangerous area and then make a quick escape. They may not be so lucky.

Conclusion

Chasing in Red Dead Redemption 2 is a thrilling and dynamic experience that requires a combination of skill, strategy, and awareness. By mastering the techniques outlined in this guide, you'll be well-equipped to handle any chase situation, whether you're pursuing a dangerous outlaw or evading the relentless law. So saddle up, partner, and put these tips into practice. The Wild West awaits, and only the most skilled will survive. Happy chasing!