What Should I Buy as a Beginner in GTA Online?
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So, you’ve just stepped into the chaotic, dazzling world of Los Santos in GTA Online. You’re probably feeling a little overwhelmed, and that’s perfectly normal. The game throws a lot at you, but don’t worry, I’m here to guide you. The absolute best initial purchases for a beginner in GTA Online are the Armored Kuruma and an apartment capable of hosting heists.
The Armored Kuruma offers an almost impenetrable barrier against NPC gunfire, making many early missions significantly easier. It is a workhorse that helps you build a solid foundation. Simultaneously, getting yourself an apartment that allows you to host heists enables you to start earning big bucks. It will also help you in progressing through the initial storyline. These two purchases will set you up for success in your criminal empire.
Essential Purchases for a Budding Criminal
1. The Armored Kuruma: Your Bulletproof Best Friend
Early on, the threat in GTA Online is less about other players and more about the sheer volume of AI enemies. The Armored Kuruma is a game-changer for this. Why?
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Near-Impenetrable Armor: NPCs will have a really tough time hitting you. This is invaluable during contact missions, preps for heists, and even just free-roaming.
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Speed and Handling: The Kuruma isn’t just tough; it’s also relatively quick and handles well, making it useful for chases and escapes.
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Cost-Effective: At around $525,000 (or $698,250 without the trade price), it’s an accessible purchase early in the game, especially considering how much easier it makes everything.
You can unlock the trade price by completing the heist mission “Fleeca Job”. Buy this vehicle as soon as possible, it is a huge step for beginners.
2. A High-End Apartment: Heist Central
The next critical purchase is a high-end apartment. These apartments are not just places to store your cars and change your clothes; they’re also the launching point for the original Heists introduced in GTA Online.
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Access to Heists: Heists are multi-stage missions that reward significant payouts. They require teamwork, strategy, and a host (you!) to kick things off.
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Early Money-Making: While newer heists like the Cayo Perico Heist are more efficient for solo players, the original heists are still a great way to learn the ropes, especially if you have friends to play with.
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Apartment Location: Consider the location carefully. Something central like Del Perro Heights, Apt 7 is generally a good choice.
These apartments typically cost between $200,000 and $400,000. This is still an investment. But, it opens up a reliable revenue stream that far surpasses the early contact missions.
Building Your Empire: Next Steps
After securing the Armored Kuruma and a high-end apartment, you’re ready to take on more significant challenges. Here are a few possible next steps:
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Kosatka Submarine: The Kosatka Submarine and the Cayo Perico heist are the next level up. They have better cash rewards than many other heists. This allows you to complete the heist solo, generating huge returns.
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CEO Office and Vehicle Warehouse: This setup lets you source and sell vehicles for a decent profit. It’s more engaging than some of the passive income businesses and can be a good way to actively earn money.
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Motorcycle Club (MC) Businesses: These businesses (Cocaine Lockup, Meth Lab, Counterfeit Cash Factory) provide passive income, but they require management and protection.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for GTA Online Beginners
1. What is the best way to make money as a new GTA Online player?
Start by completing the GTA Online tutorial, which introduces you to the basic mechanics and provides some initial cash. Then, focus on the Fleeca Job heist to unlock the trade price for the Armored Kuruma. After that, run heists from your high-end apartment. This is a reliable way to build your bank account.
2. Should I buy weapons early on?
While weapons are important, don’t prioritize them over essential vehicles and properties. A basic pistol, SMG, and assault rifle will suffice for early missions. The Special Carbine and AP Pistol are great early-game weapons. Buy them as soon as you can afford them.
3. What are the best contact missions for beginners?
Some of the best contact missions for beginners include those given by Lester, Martin Madrazo, and Simeon Yetarian. These missions are relatively straightforward and offer decent payouts.
4. Is it worth buying shark cards in GTA Online?
Shark Cards are an option for instantly acquiring cash in GTA Online. Buying Shark Cards will accelerate your progress. However, it’s generally more rewarding (and arguably more fun) to earn money through gameplay.
5. How do I find other players to do heists with?
Use the in-game job list or Looking For Group (LFG) communities on platforms like Reddit or Discord to find players looking to team up for heists.
6. What is the importance of RP (Reputation Points) in GTA Online?
RP is essential for unlocking new weapons, vehicles, and customization options. Completing missions, heists, and challenges earns you RP.
7. What is the best vehicle to buy after the Armored Kuruma?
After the Armored Kuruma, consider the Buzzard Attack Helicopter (if you want to dominate freeroam) or saving up for a business like a CEO Office and a Vehicle Warehouse. The Kosatka submarine is also a very popular choice.
8. How do I protect my businesses from raids?
Regularly resupply your businesses to reduce the risk of raids. Also, consider upgrading your security measures. Having friends or crewmates to help defend your businesses can also be beneficial.
9. What is the best way to level up quickly in GTA Online?
Participate in double RP and GTA$ events, complete daily objectives, and focus on activities that offer high RP payouts, such as heists and contact missions.
10. What is the best business for solo players in GTA Online?
The Kosatka submarine and the Cayo Perico Heist are widely considered the best money-making method for solo players. The Agency is also very good for solo players.
11. How do I register as a CEO or VIP in GTA Online?
To register as a CEO, you need to own an Executive Office. To become a VIP, you need at least $50,000 in your bank account.
12. What is the purpose of the Terrorbyte and Oppressor Mk II?
The Terrorbyte is a mobile operations center that allows you to launch client jobs and manage your businesses remotely. The Oppressor Mk II is a flying motorcycle equipped with missiles, making it extremely useful for completing missions and traversing the map quickly.
13. How do I use the passive income businesses effectively?
Keep your businesses supplied, upgrade them when possible, and regularly sell your products to maximize profits. Consider investing in security upgrades to reduce the risk of raids.
14. What is the best way to improve my driving skills in GTA Online?
Practice driving in freeroam, participate in races, and experiment with different vehicles to find what suits your style. Learning to drift and control your vehicle in various conditions is crucial.
15. Are there any educational resources available for GTA Online players?
Yes! Organizations like the Games Learning Society research the educational and social aspects of gaming. You can visit GamesLearningSociety.org to find interesting studies and articles about how games can be used for learning.
Final Thoughts
Starting out in GTA Online can seem daunting, but with the right approach and investments, you can quickly build a successful criminal empire. Focus on acquiring the Armored Kuruma and a high-end apartment early on, then gradually expand your operations with businesses and other lucrative ventures. Remember to play smart, team up with other players when possible, and always be aware of your surroundings. Good luck, and see you in Los Santos!