Finding every prehistoric fossil scattered across the frontier is one of the most rewarding challenges in Red Dead Redemption 2. Players who undertake the side quest A Test of Faith must track down thirty distinct site locations hidden across hillsides, dried riverbeds, and remote cliff sides. Completing this paleontology mission requires patience, keen observation, and a solid understanding of how to navigate the expansive open world efficiently.
Starting the A Test of Faith Stranger Quest
To begin your search for dinosaur bones, you must first locate the stranger quest giver, Deborah MacGuiness. She is situated in the Heartlands region of New Hanover, just northeast of Flatneck Station. Speaking with her triggers the quest line and allows Arthur to log bone coordinates at any local post office.
Sending in your initial coordinate discovery rewards you with a Quartz Chunk, which is an essential material for crafting unique talismans. Keeping track of your discoveries as you explore ensures you do not accidentally backtrack to spots you have already cleared.
Exploring New Hanover and Lemoyne Sites
A significant portion of the fossils can be uncovered throughout the eastern territories of New Hanover and Lemoyne. Many specimens are embedded directly into rocky ridges near the Kamassa River or tucked away near old oil derricks. Utilizing Eagle Eye vision helps highlight these fossilized remnants whenever you suspect a bone is nearby.
Some bones rest along southern train tracks or in grassy fields below major terrain markers on your map. Checking beneath cliff overhangs and small ravines often yields quick results when searching through these regions.
Searching Ambarino and West Elizabeth
Heading further west and north into Ambarino leads to several challenging bone locations hidden in mountainous terrain. Navigating these steep cliffs requires careful footwork to avoid sliding down rocky slopes. Resting spots along high ridges often conceal embedded bones that are easily overlooked from main roads.
In West Elizabeth, you will discover additional specimens resting within dense woodlands and deep valleys. Taking time to investigate unusual ground formations usually reveals the hidden fossil sites you need.
Unlocking New Austin Fossils and Final Rewards
The remaining dinosaur bones are located across New Austin, which becomes accessible during the game's epilogue. These sites span across Hennigan's Stead, Cholla Springs, and Rio Bravo, often perched atop high bluffs or embedded in desert gullies. Approaching these locations during clear daylight makes spotting distant fossils much simpler.
Once all thirty coordinates are mailed via a post office, Deborah MacGuiness sends an invitation to her workshop. Visiting her rewards players with the unique Jawbone Knife and contributes directly toward achieving full 100% game completion.
