What’s the Best Store to Rob in GTA 5? A Professional Guide
So, you’re looking to make a quick buck (or several thousand) in the chaotic world of Grand Theft Auto 5. You want to know which store offers the best risk-reward ratio for a daring robbery. The answer isn’t as simple as pointing to one specific location, as it depends on your priorities: speed, payout, risk, or perhaps just sheer convenience. However, based on a balance of factors, Limited LTD Gasoline emerges as a strong contender, along with 24/7 stores and liquor stores due to their frequency and ease of access. They typically have two registers, offering a decent payout without requiring excessive firepower or strategic planning.
While the Pacific Standard Public Deposit Bank, part of the Grand Theft Auto Online heist DLC, offers a massive payout of up to $1,250,000, that requires multiple setup missions and a coordinated team, therefore it’s not ideal for a quick or solo robbery. Let’s dive deeper into the nuances of robbing stores in GTA 5, exploring your options and the best strategies for success.
Understanding the GTA 5 Robbery Landscape
The first thing to understand is that GTA 5’s robbery system is designed for quick, low-stakes engagements rather than elaborate heists. The payout from a typical store robbery won’t make you rich, but it can be a reliable source of income, especially in the early game or when you need some quick cash to replenish your ammo supply. There are a variety of stores you can rob:
- 24/7 Stores: Common and easily accessible. Typically have two cash registers.
- Liquor Stores: Similar to 24/7 stores in terms of layout and payout.
- Gas Stations (Limited LTD): Offer a convenient setup with multiple registers.
- Clothing Stores (Binco, Suburban, Ponsonbys): While they exist, the smaller payouts from the registers make these less appealing for repeat robberies. The three registers in some of them can each give you only $50.
- Ammunition Stores: Convenient location; however, robbing them may raise your wanted level quickly.
Factors to Consider
When choosing your target, consider these key factors:
- Payout: How much cash can you realistically expect to get from the registers?
- Risk: How likely are you to attract police attention, and how quickly will they arrive?
- Accessibility: How easy is it to enter and exit the store, both on foot and in a vehicle?
- Speed: How quickly can you complete the robbery and get away?
- Location, Location, Location: Proximity to safe houses, modification shops or other key locations.
The Case for Limited LTD Gasoline
The Limited LTD Gasoline stations have a unique selling point: a relatively safe environment (depending on the location) and decent accessibility. You can pull up, quickly dispatch the clerk, and loot the registers without exposing yourself too much to open fire.
- Pros: Multiple Registers, Generally good accessibility, and Relatively safe.
- Cons: Can be predictable, making police response faster, and may have security cameras.
The Allure of 24/7 and Liquor Stores
These stores are practically ubiquitous throughout Los Santos and Blaine County. They offer consistency and ease of access, making them reliable targets.
- Pros: Abundance of locations, Easy access, and Predictable layouts.
- Cons: Smaller payouts compared to riskier ventures, and High frequency means higher risk of police presence.
How to Maximize Your Robbery Efficiency
Regardless of the store you choose, follow these tips to increase your chances of success:
- Plan Your Escape: Always have an escape route in mind. A fast vehicle parked nearby is essential. Use alleyways and backstreets to avoid police patrols.
- Weapon Choice: A silenced pistol or shotgun is ideal for close-quarters combat. Avoid using explosives, as they attract unwanted attention.
- Intimidation: Don’t hesitate to point your weapon at the clerk to speed up the process. Shooting nearby objects can also help to hasten them.
- Timing is Everything: Robbing stores during off-peak hours can reduce the risk of civilian witnesses.
- Manage Your Wanted Level: Be prepared to evade the police. Knowing the locations of Pay ‘n’ Spray shops or secluded areas for hiding is crucial.
- Don’t Get Greedy: Once you’ve looted the registers, get out. Lingering increases your risk of getting caught or killed.
Avoiding Common Pitfalls
- Underestimating the Police: The Los Santos Police Department is surprisingly competent. Don’t expect to outrun them in a slow vehicle.
- Ignoring Civilian Witnesses: Civilians can call the police, increasing your wanted level. Try to eliminate witnesses quickly without causing a massive shootout.
- Failing to Plan: Entering a store without a plan is a recipe for disaster. Always have an escape route and a strategy for dealing with the police.
The Role of Stealth
While GTA 5 isn’t a dedicated stealth game, you can use stealth tactics to improve your chances of success. Approach the store quietly, take out the clerk with a silenced weapon, and loot the registers before anyone notices. This can help you avoid attracting immediate police attention.
Expanding Your Criminal Portfolio Beyond Store Robberies
While robbing stores offers a steady, if unspectacular, income stream, there are far more lucrative criminal opportunities in GTA 5 and GTA Online. Consider these options:
- Heists: In GTA Online, heists are the most profitable activities. They require teamwork and coordination but offer massive payouts. The Pacific Standard Heist is one of the best examples.
- Missions: Both story missions and online missions can provide significant cash rewards.
- Import/Export: Stealing and selling high-end vehicles can be a very profitable venture in GTA Online.
- MC Businesses: Motorcycle Club businesses, such as cocaine lockups and meth labs, can generate passive income.
- Bunker Sales: Owning a bunker allows you to manufacture and sell weapons for a substantial profit.
Games Learning Society
Learning the ins and outs of game mechanics and criminal strategy is essential for your financial success in GTA 5. For those interested in a deeper understanding of game design and the power of games for learning, visit the Games Learning Society website at https://www.gameslearningsociety.org/. At GamesLearningSociety.org, you will find studies and papers on the influence of video games.
Conclusion
While robbing stores in GTA 5 might not make you a millionaire overnight, it’s a reliable way to earn money, especially early in the game. Limited LTD Gasoline stations and 24/7 stores are excellent choices due to their accessibility and decent payouts. Remember to plan your robberies carefully, prioritize speed and stealth, and always have an escape route. And don’t forget to explore the more lucrative criminal opportunities that GTA 5 and GTA Online have to offer. Now get out there and make some money!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the best place to rob in GTA 5 Online for quick cash?
For quick and easy cash in GTA Online, 24/7 stores and liquor stores are your best bet. They’re readily available and offer a consistent payout.
What are some good stores to rob in GTA 5 story mode?
In story mode, focus on 24/7 stores, liquor stores, and gas stations like Limited LTD. These offer a balance of accessibility, payout, and minimal risk.
Where is the best bank to rob in GTA 5?
In GTA 5 Online, the Pacific Standard Public Deposit Bank is the ultimate target, offering up to $1,250,000 during the heist, after completing several setup missions. However, note that you can not rob banks in story mode, except as parts of the story missions.
Do you get anything for robbing all the stores in GTA 5?
Yes, you get the Armed Robber award for robbing all the stores. Plus, a little green tick will appear on each shop icon on the map to show you which ones you’ve already stolen from.
Can I rob a bank in GTA 5 story mode?
You can’t rob banks in the story mode, except as part of the scripted story missions. Mods may allow bank robberies.
How to get money in GTA 5 story mode?
Ways to make money in GTA 5 story mode include finding collectibles, assassination missions, story mode heists, completing random encounters, bail bonds bounties, and robbing armored trucks.
How can Franklin make money fast in GTA 5?
Franklin can earn money quickly by participating in races due to his special driving ability.
What can you rob in GTA 5 offline?
In offline mode, you can rob 24/7 stores, liquor stores, and armored trucks.
What is the best way to rob the casino in GTA 5?
The Big Con approach, particularly with the Gruppe Sechs disguises, is considered by some as the best way to rob the casino in GTA 5 Online.
Are there any money cheat codes for GTA 5?
No, there are no direct money cheat codes for GTA 5 due to the presence of in-game stock markets.
What can I rob in GTA 5 offline?
Offline, you can rob all types of stores, including clothing and ammunition stores, by aiming your gun before entering.
Can you sell cars in GTA 5?
Yes, you can sell cars at Los Santos Customs for cash.
Where is the best place to steal good cars in GTA 5?
The car park almost directly below Del Perro Pier usually spawns a good selection of fast cars, muscle cars, 4×4’s and supercars.
What happens if you rob all stores in GTA 5?
Nothing special happens after robbing all stores except that you can go around and rob them again. You’ll get the “Stick Up Kid” trophy/achievement and a green tick will appear on the map by the store.
How do you get rich fast in GTA 5 Online?
The quickest ways to get rich in GTA 5 Online include playing modes offering bonus GTA$, spinning the wheel at the casino, completing treasure hunts, climbing the ladder to the top of your chosen career, and undertaking heists, the game’s biggest overall paydays.