Freighter vs. Offshore: Which Approach is Best for the Merryweather Heist in GTA V?
The Merryweather Heist in Grand Theft Auto V is a pivotal mission, marking the first time Michael, Franklin, and Trevor collaborate on a large-scale operation. While the narrative outcome remains the same regardless of your choice – the crew ultimately returns the device and earns no money – the gameplay experience varies significantly depending on whether you choose the Freighter or Offshore approach. So, which is better?
The Freighter approach is generally considered the better option for several reasons:
- Fewer Prep Missions: The Freighter route requires only one primary preparation mission – stealing a Submersible with Trevor. The Offshore approach demands at least two: obtaining a Cargobob and the Submersible. Fewer prep missions translate to less time investment before the main event.
- Enjoyable Heavy Sniping Elements: Many players find the assault on the freighter, which involves Michael strategically placing sticky bombs and engaging in heavy sniping, more engaging and enjoyable than the Offshore approach.
- Strategic Flexibility: The Freighter assault allows for more player-driven tactical decisions. From choosing where to plant the explosives to deciding on the best sniping vantage points, the Freighter approach offers greater strategic flexibility.
- Less Risk of Damage: As one source mentions, the Offshore approach involves sifting through wreckage with the risk of damaging the cargo, which although narratively irrelevant, can still impact the player’s sense of immersion and completion.
Ultimately, the best choice depends on your personal preference. If you prioritize efficiency and enjoy heavy sniping gameplay, the Freighter approach is the way to go. If you prefer a more covert operation and don’t mind the extra preparation, the Offshore approach might be more appealing. However, considering time investment, gameplay enjoyment, and strategic flexibility, the Freighter approach holds a slight edge.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About the Merryweather Heist
What is the Merryweather Heist about?
The Merryweather Heist is a story mission in GTA V where Michael, Franklin, and Trevor collaborate to steal a powerful device from Merryweather Security Consulting. The goal is initially believed to be to acquire a chemical weapon for Trevor’s business, but it’s later revealed to be a prototype weapon that they return, resulting in no monetary gain for the crew.
Does the Merryweather Heist pay any money?
No. The Merryweather Heist does not provide any monetary rewards. It serves a crucial role in advancing the storyline and bringing the three protagonists together for a shared objective, but financial gain isn’t part of the equation.
What are the two approaches for the Merryweather Heist?
The two approaches for the Merryweather Heist are:
- Freighter: Involves assaulting a large freighter ship to retrieve the device.
- Offshore: Focuses on stealing the device from a relatively unguarded test site offshore.
What is the “Submersible” in the Merryweather Heist?
The Submersible is a mini-submarine that Trevor needs to steal as a preparation mission for both the Freighter and Offshore approaches. It’s used to reach the device, regardless of which approach you select.
How does Trevor steal the submarine?
Trevor steals the Submersible from a docked ship. The player needs to snipe the cables holding the Submersible in place, causing it to drop into the water. Trevor then enters the Submersible and drives it to a designated location for retrieval.
What is the “Cargobob” for?
The Cargobob helicopter is needed only for the Offshore approach. It is used to lift and transport the stolen Submersible to the heist location.
What are the preparation missions for the Freighter approach?
The primary preparation mission for the Freighter approach is stealing the Submersible.
What are the preparation missions for the Offshore approach?
The preparation missions for the Offshore approach include stealing both the Cargobob and the Submersible.
Which approach involves more action?
The Freighter approach generally involves more direct action, as it involves assaulting a heavily guarded ship, planting explosives, and engaging in sniping combat. The Offshore approach is relatively more stealth-oriented, focusing on acquiring and transporting the device without direct confrontation.
Is it worth investing in Merryweather Security stock after the heist?
After completing the “Third Way” mission, you’ll receive a text from Donald Percival. At this point, you should invest in Merryweather Security (MRKT) stock. Devin Weston owning 11% of the shares causes the stock to plummet initially, after which it will start to rise, potentially offering profits of up to 70% or even 100%. However, note that this is after completing the final mission.
How does Michael contribute in the Freighter Approach?
In the Freighter Approach, Michael is responsible for boarding the freighter, strategically placing sticky bombs on the deck, and providing cover fire with a sniper rifle. This strategic planning and execution is crucial for the heist’s success.
What’s the point of the Merryweather Heist if it doesn’t pay?
While the Merryweather Heist doesn’t provide monetary rewards, it serves a significant purpose in the storyline by:
- Bringing the three protagonists together for a shared mission.
- Revealing a crucial plot point about the nature of the device.
- Setting the stage for future events in the game.
What if I damage the device during the Offshore Approach?
Even if the device is damaged during the Offshore Approach, the narrative outcome will remain the same. The crew will still recover the damaged device and eventually return it, leading to no financial gain.
Does my choice of approach affect the final mission, “The Big Score”?
No, the choice between the Freighter and Offshore approaches in the Merryweather Heist does not impact the final mission, “The Big Score.” The preparation and execution of the Big Score are entirely independent of the earlier heist.
What’s the best way to learn more about game design and interactive narratives?
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