How to Start a Heist in GTA 5?

How to Start a Heist in GTA 5 Story Mode

In GTA 5’s story mode, heists are part of the main storyline, primarily led by characters Michael, Franklin, and Trevor. You’ll unlock heists as you progress through the story, with each one becoming available at certain points.

1. Progress Through the Story: Heists in story mode are unlocked as you complete missions. Each heist will be introduced as a major mission, often with a notification or prompt from Lester, the heist mastermind.
2. Set Up the Heist: For each heist, you’ll go through a setup phase where you make key decisions:
   • Choose a Crew: Lester will offer different crew members for roles like driver, gunman, and hacker. More skilled members get a higher cut but can make the heist go smoother.
   • Pick an Approach: For some heists, you’ll have the choice between a stealthy approach or a more aggressive option. Each approach has pros and cons and affects the difficulty and outcome of the heist.
3. Complete Setup Missions: Each heist requires several setup missions. These missions might involve gathering equipment, stealing vehicles, or collecting specific items needed for the job.
4. Launch the Heist: Once setup missions are complete, the main heist mission will become available. Follow the prompts to start the heist and complete it to earn your payout.

In story mode, the heists get progressively more complex and challenging, so assembling the best crew and choosing the right approach can impact your success and earnings.

How to Start the Diamond Casino Heist in GTA 5 Online

The Diamond Casino Heist is one of the most popular and lucrative heists in GTA Online, offering a massive payout if executed well. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to start and complete the Diamond Casino Heist.

Step 1: Buy an Arcade

To plan the Diamond Casino Heist, you’ll need a dedicated base of operations, which is an Arcade property in GTA Online.

• Where to Buy: Arcades can be purchased through the Maze Bank Foreclosures website on your in-game phone.
• Cost: Arcade prices range from around $1.2 million to over $2 million. Some players choose cheaper arcades in rural areas, while others prefer more central locations.

Step 2: Meet Lester and Access the Planning Board

Once you purchase an arcade, Lester will introduce you to the Diamond Casino Heist. Go to the basement of your arcade to find the heist planning board.

1. Start the Setup: Approach the planning board in your arcade to initiate the setup process. Lester will guide you through the steps and provide an overview of the heist’s objectives.
2. Scope Out the Casino: The first step is to scope out the Diamond Casino. Visit the casino to gather intel on entrances, security points, and possible escape routes. The more information you gather, the easier the heist will be.

Step 3: Choose Your Approach

The Diamond Casino Heist offers three distinct approaches. Each one affects the strategy, difficulty, and rewards:

1. Silent & Sneaky: This approach is all about stealth, aiming to avoid security systems and get in and out without detection.
2. The Big Con: This approach involves using disguises and bluffing your way through security. It’s a mix of stealth and strategy.
3. Aggressive: A high-risk approach where you go in guns blazing. It requires heavy firepower but can be the most straightforward if executed well.

Choose the approach that best suits your team’s skills and preferences. You can replay the heist later with different approaches to experience new challenges and maximize profits.

Step 4: Complete Setup Missions

Each approach requires its own set of setup missions to gather necessary equipment and prepare for the heist:

• Acquire Weapons and Equipment: Depending on your approach, you’ll need specific gear like disguises, weapons, hacking devices, or getaway vehicles.
• Optional Prep Missions: There are additional missions that, while optional, can make the heist easier, such as disabling security or gaining access to restricted areas.

Completing all required prep missions ensures you’re fully prepared for the heist and can significantly increase your odds of success.

Step 5: Start the Heist

After completing setup missions, gather your team and start the Diamond Casino Heist. You can play with up to three other players (a total of four), which helps distribute responsibilities and increases your chances of a successful heist.

1. Follow the Plan: Stick to your chosen approach, whether it’s sneaking in, bluffing your way through, or going in aggressively.
2. Reach the Vault: Make your way to the casino vault, using any tools or disguises you acquired during setup.
3. Escape: Once you’ve collected the loot, follow the escape plan, which may involve evading security, escaping via getaway vehicles, or even losing the cops.

Tips for a Successful Diamond Casino Heist

• Choose Skilled Teammates: For a smooth heist, team up with players who are comfortable with the approach you’ve selected, especially for stealth-heavy runs.
• Take Advantage of Practice Runs: If it’s your first time, consider running some practice heists with friends to get familiar with the controls and strategies.
• Replay for Higher Payouts: The Diamond Casino Heist can be replayed, and payouts vary based on the approach, difficulty level, and team performance.

Additional Heists to Try in GTA Online

Apart from the Diamond Casino Heist, GTA Online offers several other heists with great payouts and unique challenges:

• The Cayo Perico Heist: This is a solo-friendly heist with massive rewards, as players raid a private island for valuable loot.
• The Doomsday Heist: This heist involves high-tech missions and epic battles, especially for players looking for a story-driven experience.