Grand Theft Auto V (GTA 5), developed by Rockstar Games, remains one of the most popular and immersive open-world games ever created. Even in 2025, millions of players continue to explore Los Santos, complete missions, join heists, and dominate GTA Online. Whether you’re a beginner entering the streets for the first time or a veteran aiming for 100% completion, this GTA 5 strategy guide will provide everything you need: detailed mission walkthroughs, cheat codes, money-making methods, weapon recommendations, and advanced heist strategies.
This guide is structured step by step to ensure you can follow along easily.
1. Getting Started in GTA 5
Before diving into missions and heists, new players need to understand the basics.
Step 1: Choose Your Platform
GTA 5 is available on PC, PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X/S, and Xbox One. The PC version offers mods, while consoles offer smoother optimized gameplay.
Step 2: Learn the Controls
Familiarize yourself with driving controls, weapon switching, cover mechanics, and character switching. GTA 5’s unique system allows you to play as Michael, Franklin, and Trevor—each with special abilities.
- Michael: Bullet Time shooting (slows down combat).
- Franklin: Driving Focus (slows time while driving).
- Trevor: Rage Mode (deals double damage, takes half damage).
Step 3: Adjust Your Settings
- Turn on subtitles to follow conversations.
- Increase brightness for night missions.
- Adjust sensitivity for driving and shooting.
2. Story Mode Walkthrough (Step-by-Step)
GTA 5 features 69 main missions. Below is a structured walkthrough with key strategies.
Prologue (North Yankton Heist)
- Learn the basics of shooting, driving, and escaping cops.
- Pro tip: Take cover early to avoid damage.
Franklin and Lamar
- Introduction to Franklin.
- Focus on driving cleanly during repo missions.
Early Missions
- Complete Repossession and Complications to unlock Michael.
- Save money early—avoid wasting cash on unnecessary items.
Mid-Game Missions
- Focus on heists: The Jewel Store Job, Merryweather Heist, and Paleto Score.
- Choose the smart crew members for higher payouts.
Final Missions (Three Choices)
- Option A (Kill Trevor) – quick ending but removes Trevor.
- Option B (Kill Michael) – emotional but removes Michael.
- Option C (Deathwish) – best ending; keep all characters alive.
👉 For 100% completion, always choose Deathwish.
3. How to Make Money in GTA 5 Story Mode
Money is crucial for buying properties, vehicles, and weapons. Here are step-by-step ways:
Step 1: Heists
- Always choose the best crew (not the cheapest).
- Example: For the Jewel Store Job, pick Packie McReary (good driver) and Rickie Lukens (hacker).
Step 2: Assassination Missions (Stock Market Trick)
- Before doing Lester’s assassination missions, invest in stocks.
- Example: Betta Pharmaceuticals stock skyrockets after "Hotel Assassination."
- This can net you hundreds of millions.
Step 3: Side Businesses
- Buy properties like Los Santos Customs and Downtown Cab Co. for passive income.
4. GTA 5 Heist Strategy Guide
Heists are the highlight of GTA 5. Here’s a breakdown:
The Jewel Store Job
- Smart Approach: Use knockout gas for less resistance.
- Escape via bikes.
The Merryweather Heist
- Choose the offshore method for better rewards.
The Paleto Score
- Heavy armor required.
- Pro tip: Aim for headshots to conserve ammo.
The Big Score (Final Heist)
- Obvious Approach: More action, higher payout.
- Subtle Approach: Cleaner, easier, but smaller payout.
5. Best Vehicles in GTA 5
- Fastest Car (Story Mode): Pegassi Zentorno.
- Best Off-road Vehicle: BF Injection.
- Best Motorcycle: Nagasaki Shotaro.
- Best Helicopter: Buzzard Attack Chopper.
👉 Always store your best vehicles in garages to avoid losing them.
6. Best Weapons in GTA 5
- Assault Rifle: Special Carbine.
- Sniper Rifle: Heavy Sniper Mk II.
- Shotgun: Assault Shotgun (great for close quarters).
- Explosives: Sticky Bombs for cars and heists.
7. GTA 5 Cheat Codes (PC, PS5, Xbox)
Cheats make the game fun after completing the main missions.
Popular Cheats:
- Invincibility: PAINKILLER
- Infinite Ammo: FULLCLIP
- Spawn Tank: PANZER
- Skyfall (fall from sky): SKYFALL
👉 Use cheats for fun, but note they disable achievements/trophies.
8. GTA 5 Online Guide (2025)
While story mode is great, GTA Online is where most players spend time.
Step 1: Create Your Character
Customize looks, skills, and attributes.
Step 2: Complete Tutorial Missions
Earn cash and unlock activities.
Step 3: Money-Making in GTA Online
- Heists: Cayo Perico Heist is still the fastest money maker.
- Business Investments: Buy Nightclubs, CEO offices, and Gunrunning Bunkers.
- Daily Objectives: Complete for steady income.
Step 4: PvP and Survival
- Join Arena Wars and Deathmatches to improve combat skills.
9. How to Get 100% Completion in GTA 5
To achieve 100%, you must complete:
- All 69 story missions.
- All Strangers & Freaks side missions.
- All Hobbies & Pastimes (races, shooting ranges, etc.).
- Collectibles: 50 Spaceship Parts, 50 Letter Scraps.
- Random Events: Complete at least 14.
👉 Use Franklin for collectibles—his driving ability makes it easier.
10. Pro Tips and Hidden Secrets
- Switch Characters Often: Each protagonist may have unique random events.
- Invest in Real Estate Early: Generates long-term profits.
- Use Special Abilities: Don’t forget Franklin’s driving slowdown during chases.
- Hidden Easter Eggs: UFOs, Mount Chiliad mystery, and Bigfoot appearances.
Final Thoughts
GTA 5 remains a masterpiece because it offers limitless possibilities—from the thrilling story mode to the endless online updates. With this complete GTA 5 walkthrough and strategy guide, you now know how to make money, master heists, use cheats, choose the best weapons and vehicles, and achieve 100% completion.
Whether you are revisiting Los Santos in 2025 or playing for the very first time, this guide ensures you’ll dominate every mission and fully enjoy one of the greatest open-world games ever made.
