The Big Score (Planning Stage)

The Big Score Setup is pre-Heist mission in IGN's Grand Theft Auto 5 Walkthrough. This guide will highlight the main mission strategies and Gold Medal requirements needed to complete every main story mission. Check out more of IGN's GTA5 Walkthrough for info on Cheats, Easter Eggs, Strangers and Freaks and a lot more.

MISSION NOTE: WHICH CHARACTER?

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There are three different intro scenes to this mission depending on which character you choose.

For the full intro scene, start the mission as Trevor and meet with Lester backstage of the strip club.
For a mid-scene intro, start the mission as Franklin.
And for a shortened intro, start the mission as Michael.

Soon after completing the Meltdown mission, Lester tells Michael to meet up with the gang at the Strip Club to begin planning for The Big Score.

Lester gives you two options for the heist, one involving less gunplay but a more elaborate setup while the other is more upfront with lots of bloodshed. These are the requirements needed for both choices.

THE SUBTLE APPROACH:

Three fully modded Gauntlet vehicles for getaway
Police stingers
One Driver

THE OBVIOUS APPROACH:

One getaway vehicle, fully modded
Two drivers and two gunmen
One train car and flatbed
One Driller

The Subtle approach is not as heavy on the gunplay (although it's still needed) and is easier to pull off but will only net you about $15-$20 million per character after the Heist.

On the other hand, the Obvious approach is loaded with bloodshed. As your crew take the money (up to $200 million), you'll have to defend yourself from the incoming FIB and police during the robbery AND during the escape. Also, since you have a bigger crew, each member will receive a 25% increase in Stats and your take will be $30-$40 million for the job. Pick wisely!