What Should I Do First on GTA Online? A Beginner’s Guide
Fast answer first. Then use the tabs or video for more detail.
- Watch the video explanation below for a faster overview.
- Game mechanics may change with updates or patches.
- Use this block to get the short answer without scrolling the whole page.
- Read the FAQ section if the article has one.
- Use the table of contents to jump straight to the detailed section you need.
- Watch the video first, then skim the article for specifics.
So, you’ve just loaded into the chaotic world of GTA Online for the first time, and the sheer scope of possibilities is overwhelming. Where do you even begin? Don’t worry, this guide will break down your initial steps into manageable actions, ensuring you get a solid start and avoid the common pitfalls of a new player in Los Santos. The absolute first thing you should do is complete the tutorial. This might seem obvious, but it’s crucial. Your initial contact, Lamar Davis, will guide you through the basics, including street racing, committing robberies, taking down thugs, undertaking job assignments, and obtaining insurance for your car. This isn’t just a formality; it’s a crucial foundation for your criminal career.
Establishing Your Foundation
Tutorial Completion is Essential
As mentioned before, never skip the tutorial. It’s not just about learning the controls; it’s about experiencing the core gameplay loop of GTA Online. This early experience introduces you to Lamar’s network and sets the stage for future jobs. Completing the tutorial also helps you grasp fundamental game mechanics, making your later experiences far more enjoyable.
Early Missions and Contact Jobs
After the tutorial, your focus should shift towards contact jobs. These are missions given by various NPCs, often offering a decent amount of cash and experience points (RP) early in the game. They serve as excellent practice, exposing you to different mission types and helping you hone your skills.
Saving for Your First Apartment
Your next big goal should be acquiring an apartment. An apartment acts as a personal hub, offering a safe haven, a place to store vehicles, and most importantly, the planning board for heists, which will become a critical part of your earnings strategy down the line. You don’t need a luxury penthouse initially; a basic apartment will do just fine to get you started.
Making Money and Leveling Up
Initial Money-Making Methods
The early game in GTA Online can feel slow if you are struggling financially. Fortunately, there are a few reliable methods to get money flowing:
- Complete Contact Missions: As discussed before, these offer steady payouts.
- Participate in Races: These are fun, can be profitable, and help improve your driving skills.
- Daily Objectives: Check your daily objectives for quick and easy tasks that offer cash and RP bonuses.
- Spin the Lucky Wheel: Visit the Diamond Casino daily and spin the lucky wheel for a chance to win cash, RP, or other prizes.
- Treasure Hunts: Look for clues scattered around the map to unlock rewards and cash.
Focusing on Experience Points (RP)
Leveling up unlocks new weapons, vehicles, and gameplay options. Focus on completing tasks that give a good RP payout. Some early missions that give good RP include Sinking Feeling and A Boat in the Bay. Also, passively gaining RP by being around a CEO of another player can give you free RP every few minutes.
Start Small, Then Aim for Heists
While heists are the biggest overall paydays in GTA Online, they require an apartment and a bit of level progression. Focus on the steady income streams outlined above first. Once you have a basic foundation and are comfortable with the gameplay, start setting up heists.
Getting Involved in the Community
Exploring Los Santos
Don’t spend all your time grinding missions. Take some time to explore the detailed world of Los Santos. Discover hidden locations, engage in random events, and familiarize yourself with the map.
Connecting With Other Players
GTA Online is designed to be a social experience. Don’t be afraid to connect with other players, even if it’s just for casual free-roam fun. You can join a biker gang, roleplay, or even just participate in races with others.
Essential Tips for Beginners
- Bank Your Money: Don’t carry large sums of cash with you; deposit them at an ATM or through your phone.
- Insure Your Vehicles: Getting insurance for your vehicles is crucial, or they’ll be gone permanently if destroyed.
- Utilize the Map: The map is your best friend. Use it to find missions, shops, and points of interest.
- Be Aware of Your Surroundings: Griefers are a reality in GTA Online. Be mindful of your surroundings and avoid unnecessary confrontations.
- Have Fun: This is a game, after all. While getting rich and powerful is part of the fun, don’t forget to enjoy the chaos, humor, and creativity that GTA Online offers.
By following these initial steps, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a successful criminal mastermind in GTA Online.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the fastest way to level up in GTA Online early on?
Initially, focus on contact jobs and missions offering bonus RP. Also, consider becoming a bodyguard or associate for another player’s CEO as this provides a steady stream of passive RP.
What’s the best way to make money solo in GTA Online when starting?
CEO missions (crates/vehicle cargo) are good for solo play. You can also take advantage of daily bonuses on certain game modes. Consider purchasing a Special Cargo Warehouse early on, which is a great option for solo players.
Can you do heists alone in GTA Online?
While some setup missions can be done alone, the majority of heists require a team. The Cayo Perico Heist is the exception, as it can be completed solo.
What is the most profitable heist in GTA Online?
The Diamond Casino Heist and Cayo Perico Heist are among the highest-paying heists. Cayo Perico is especially lucrative if played solo.
How do I join a crew in GTA Online?
You can join a crew through the Social Club on Rockstar Games’ website or through the in-game menu.
What are CEO businesses and how do I start them?
To become a CEO, you’ll need to purchase an office from the in-game Dynasty 8 Executive website. After this you can engage in businesses like special cargo, vehicle cargo, and others.
What are MC businesses in GTA Online and how to get them?
MC (Motorcycle Club) Businesses are purchased through the Maze Bank Foreclosures website once you own a clubhouse. These include businesses like meth lab, cocaine lockup, and more.
What are the best missions for grinding cash in GTA Online?
Missions like Trash Talk, Pier Pressure, Rooftop Rumble, Judging the Jury, and Blow Up are known for decent payouts.
How often can I do the Cayo Perico Heist solo?
You can complete the Cayo Perico Heist Finale solo only once every three in-game days.
What is the best business to own in GTA 5 for making money?
The Acid Lab is widely regarded as one of the best businesses in GTA Online to make money quickly and is mobile, operating from the back of the MTL Brickade 6×6 truck.
What is the value of hidden packages and where to find them?
There are 12 Hidden Packages spread underwater across the map, each containing a large sum of money. They are located near crashed objects and can be collected repeatedly.
Should I invest in Lifeinvader stock after the assassination mission?
Yes, after the assassination mission, invest in Lifeinvader stock once it has tanked, then sell when the price recovers for a big profit.
How much does the Cayo Perico heist setup cost?
The setup cost for the Cayo Perico Heist is $100,000.
How can I avoid griefers in GTA Online?
Play in an Invite Only session. This allows you to do most of the game content without the interference of random, often aggressive, players.
Is it possible to do everything in GTA Online solo?
Yes, most activities in GTA Online can now be completed in an Invite Only session, without the need for other players. This includes business missions and even heists (except for their setup missions) if you’re doing them solo.