Grand Theft Auto V: Beginner's Guide

Getting Started in GTA V

The story begins with Michael and then introduces Franklin and Trevor; the three-protagonist switching opens up as you play the early missions. Follow the story missions at first, since they introduce the characters, abilities and heist-planning loop.

Wanted levels: when police are chasing you, break line of sight and leave the search area until the stars flash and disappear. Learn this early, since it is needed in many mission escapes.

The Stock Market (Single Player)

GTA V has in-game stock markets (BAWSAQ and LCN) that react to story events. The assassination missions given by Lester can move share prices, so it is worth checking the markets before and after each one. Prices and returns vary, so treat any specific profit figure you read online with caution.

GTA Online Getting Started

Create your character, complete the introduction, and work through the Contact Missions for early cash. The Kosatka submarine (about $2.2 million according to guides) is required to start the Cayo Perico Heist, which is often recommended as a strong solo earner. Guides quote solo payouts of roughly $1 to $1.6 million per run, depending on the primary target; this has been changed in updates, so check a current guide before buying.

Essential Tips

1. Switch to Trevor for combat: his special deals double damage and takes half damage (not invincibility).
2. Switch to Franklin for driving: his special slows time while driving.
3. Use Michael's bullet time in gunfights.
4. Save regularly so you can retry missions.
5. In GTA Online, public sessions can be risky for new players; an invite-only session avoids other players.

First Major Mission: Jewel Store Job

The Jewel Store Job is an early heist in which you choose between a quieter approach and a louder one. The quiet approach involves disguises and knockout gas; the loud approach is a direct assault. Both end with an escape, so treat the getaway as part of the planning. The details of crew choices and payouts are shown in the game's planning board.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is GTA V's story still worth playing?
A: It is a complete, standalone crime story with a three-protagonist structure; whether it appeals depends on whether you like the series' tone and open-world style.

Q: Is GTA Online beginner-friendly?
A: The early progression is slow, and public sessions can be risky for new players; many players use invite-only sessions.

Q: Will GTA VI affect GTA V?
A: GTA VI is scheduled for November 2026 according to Wikipedia. We have no confirmed information on how Rockstar will treat GTA V or GTA Online afterwards.

Q: What is a reliable GTA Online money method?
A: The Cayo Perico Heist is the most commonly recommended solo heist. It needs a Kosatka submarine (about $2.2 million in guides plus setup costs), and payouts depend on the target and on updates.

Q: Is there story DLC?
A: No. Planned single-player DLC was cancelled, according to Wikipedia; new content went to GTA Online.