Horses are an essential part of Red Dead Redemption 2, serving as your primary mode of transportation, a loyal companion, and a valuable asset during combat. Choosing the right horse can greatly enhance your experience in the game. This informative guide will provide you with an overview of the best horses in Red Dead Redemption 2 and how to obtain them.
If you are just getting started with the horse riding in RDR2, you may want to check out our horse riding guide which covers all of the important mechanics to help you master horses.
1. Arabian
The Arabian is considered one of the best horses in the game, boasting excellent speed, acceleration, and handling. Its elite handling makes it easier to control during high-speed chases and combat situations.
How to get it: A white-coated Arabian can be found in the wild near Lake Isabella in the Grizzlies West region. Approach the horse slowly and calmly, then tame it by following the on-screen prompts. Alternatively, a black-coated Arabian can be purchased from the Saint Denis stable once you reach Chapter 4, and a rose grey bay-coated Arabian can be purchased from the Blackwater stable after completing the Epilogue.
2. Missouri Fox Trotter
The Missouri Fox Trotter is a well-rounded horse with a good balance of speed, acceleration, and stamina. It is an excellent choice for players who prefer a versatile horse that can handle various situations.
How to get it: The Missouri Fox Trotter becomes available for purchase at the Scarlett Meadows stable in Chapter 4 and the Blackwater stable after completing the Epilogue.
3. Turkoman
The Turkoman is a powerful and agile horse with a high health pool, making it an excellent choice for combat situations. Its combination of speed, stamina, and health make it a reliable companion for players who frequently engage in gunfights.
How to get it: The Turkoman becomes available for purchase at the Saint Denis stable in Chapter 4 and the Blackwater stable after completing the Epilogue.
4. Thoroughbred
The Thoroughbred is a fast and agile horse with a high top speed, making it an excellent choice for players who prioritize speed over other attributes. It is well-suited for races and escaping from dangerous situations.
How to get it: A free Thoroughbred can be obtained through the pre-order bonus or the Special/Ultimate Edition of the game. Alternatively, Thoroughbreds can be purchased from various stables throughout the game or found in the wild.
5. Appaloosa
The Appaloosa is a sturdy and reliable horse with a good balance of health, stamina, and speed. It is an excellent choice for players who prefer a versatile horse that can handle long journeys and various activities.
How to get it: The Appaloosa can be purchased from the Strawberry stable in Chapter 3 or found in the wild. It can also be obtained through certain missions or as a temporary horse.
6. American Paint
The American Paint is a strong and durable horse with good health and stamina. It is an excellent choice for players who engage in hunting and other activities that require a sturdy and dependable horse.
How to get it: The American Paint can be purchased from the Valentine stable in Chapter 2 or found in the wild. It can also be obtained through certain missions or as a temporary horse.
Horse Bonding and Care
To get the most out of your horse, it is essential to take care of it and build a strong bond. While not part of the game, it is always interesting and fun to give your horse a name, our horse name generator can help you out a lot here. Bonding with your horse can unlock additional abilities, such as rearing, skid turns, and drifting. You can increase your bond with your horse by:
- Feeding and grooming your horse regularly
- Patting and calming your horse during stressful situations
- Riding your horse frequently and avoiding actions that may harm it
By selecting the best horse for your playstyle and investing in its care and bonding, you can significantly enhance your experience in Red Dead Redemption 2. Choose your horse wisely and enjoy the freedom and adventure of exploring the Wild West with your loyal companion.
