Grand Theft Auto Online (GTA Online) is an online multiplayer game based on Grand Theft Auto V (GTA V). The game is a completely separate experience from GTA V and continues to receive updates to keep things interesting. Read on to learn more about everything you need to know about GTA Online!

How to Get GTA Online

GTA Online is included with every purchase of GTA V. It is also possible to get GTA Online standalone on PS5 and Xbox Series X|S.

Is GTA Online Free?

GTA Online Information

Character Creation

Creating your character slightly varies depending on the version of GTA Online you're playing. All versions begin with the Character Creator, however, the PS5 and Xbox Series X|S versions will allow you to choose a Criminal Career before that. The Career Builder lets you select a Criminal Career to give you a headstart in the game.
GTA Online: List of All Careers

The Character Creator lets you customize the gender, appearance, and clothing of your character, as well as assign their stats. If you are creating a second character, it will also ask if you want to copy your other character's rank.

You can have up to two characters per account, which you can freely switch between and delete at will. However, money is shared between the two characters, so balance your spending wisely.

Money and Reputation

Money and Reputation (RP) are the main elements that affect your progression in GTA Online. Virtually anything you do in GTA Online will reward you with both.

Money

Money is mainly used to purchase Vehicles and Properties, both of which are essential in opening up new opportunities and new modes to play. There are many ways to earn money in the game, but some players can choose to purchase Shark Cards with real money to boost their in-game bank account.

Money is also stored in two accounts, your held cash and your bank account. It is generally better to keep all your money in the bank as most transactions can be paid using this account and you lose less money when you die.

Reputation (RP)

The RP system works like an experience point system for the game, where every player has a Rank. Increasing one's Rank unlocks more customization options, allows purchasing of stronger weapons, and gives access to more challenging Jobs. As there is no other way to gain RP besides playing the game, this is the game's other way of limiting progression even if you're stacked with cash.

Sessions

Players can set up different types of sessions in GTA Online. This is useful for letting you play only with your Friends or your Crew. You can even choose to play Solo if you wish, but note that some features like Heists and managing your businesses will be inaccessible.

All sessions can have up to 30 players. By default, players will be assigned to a Public server. Players can choose to join another Public server while online or switch to another type by going back to GTA V and selecting from there.

Good and Bad Sports

The game handles mean-spirited players by marking them as Good Sports and Bad Sports. Good Sports are rewarded with money and store discounts for maintaining courtesy online. Bad Sports, on the other hand, can only play with other Bad Sports and may be forced to wear a dunce cap.

To avoid becoming a Bad Sport, try to complete Jobs when you take them. Also, avoid destroying other players' personal vehicles and doing things that can get you reported for griefing.

GTA Online Gameplay

Being based on GTA V, GTA Online's basic gameplay and controls are largely similar. However, the online aspect dramatically changes interaction within the game world.

Freemode

Freemode is the open-ended way to play GTA Online. You are free to set your own objectives and roam around to your heart's content. While in Freemode, random challenges and events may appear, giving players a chance to earn extra money and RP.
GTA Online: Freemode Challenges and Events

Players can also purchase Property, Vehicles, and Weapons while in Freemode. Activities like golf and tennis can be joined at any time. This is also where most available Jobs can be seen, and the player can choose when to take them.

Passive Mode

Sometimes you'll want to just explore the world without the fear of getting blown up every other minute. Passive Mode basically turns players into ghosts that cannot be harmed, nor can they harm others. However, while this mode is active, you will not be able to join Freemode Challenges and Events nor can you do most things that make you money like Jobs.

Jobs

Jobs are different activities you can join to gain money and RP. Many Jobs can be played solo, but some of them will require more players to start. Once you accept a job, you will no longer be in Freemode and must complete it to avoid becoming a Bad Sport.
List of All Jobs

Heists

Heists are special Missions that work similarly to the Heists in GTA V. Like in the Story Mode, prep work must be done to ensure its success. Most Heists must be done in a group but some can be finished alone, most notably the Cayo Perico Heist. Done right, clearing Heists is one of the most lucrative ways to earn money in GTA Online.

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