Rockstar Games has released numerous updates for GTA Online over the past decade, with the most recent being the Chuckin’ Bell Farm Raid on March 7, 2024.
These updates have significantly contributed to the game’s long-term popularity and success. The best part is that they are free for those who already own GTA 5, making them accessible to all players.
In this article, we’ll explore the top 10 best updates that have enhanced GTA Online. Let’s dive in.
1. San Andreas Mercenaries
The San Andreas Mercenaries content update introduced a variety of new vehicles, events, and contact missions. Players joined forces with the Los Angeles Mercenaries air squadron to take down Merryweather Security. This update also included many community-requested experience improvements.
Notably, the update rebalanced military jets like the P996 Lazer and Hydra. It removed the refund system for the Orbital Cannon and allowed players to instantly reset to avoid repeated targeting. Additionally, it added a convenient “buy all” option for purchasing ammunition and body armor.
These changes are just a few highlights of this update. The game received numerous other quality-of-life improvements and new content, making this update a significant enhancement.
2. Import / Export
The Import/Export update revived the excitement of vehicle stealing, significantly boosting the game’s popularity. Rockstar introduced 22 new purchasable vehicles featured in various missions. Players also gained access to 8 special vehicles and engaging, profitable work missions. Completing these missions could earn players between $10,000 and $20,000.
Additionally, the update included 8 new VIP and CEO work missions, offering RP and earnings ranging from $30,000 to $40,000. This made it an excellent way to make money in the game.
A standout vehicle from this update is the Coil Rocket Voltic, equipped with a rocket booster, making it unique and highly performant compared to other vehicles.
3. Heists
Released in 2015, the Heists update remains one of the most significant additions to GTA Online for many reasons. For those unfamiliar, this update was the first to introduce exclusive vehicles like the Karin Kuruma and Lampadati Casco to GTA Online.
In terms of content, diversity, and intensity, the Heists update surpassed all previous updates from 2013 and 2014. It included 5 Heist missions, allowing players to team up with friends for strategic planning and substantial rewards.
The potential earnings from each heist vary depending on the difficulty level chosen by the heist leader. For example, in hard mode, players can earn up to 1.875 million dollars from the Pacific Standard Heist.
4. Cunning Stunts
On July 12, 2016, the Cunning Stunts update introduced 10 new land vehicles to GTA Online. Among these were several fan favorites, including the RE-7B, renowned for its top speeds and race car-inspired experience. This vehicle was perfect for the new races that came with the update.
The Cunning Stunts update also brought in stunt races featuring flaming hoops, loops, and ramps. This was a game changer for racing in GTA Online, leading to many quirky but fun races. A major reason for the update’s popularity was that players could create their own wild stunt races, providing an endless supply of creative stunts.
Even today, GTA Online races remain extremely popular, with many players enjoying the game specifically for the racing experience. The Cunning Stunts update played a crucial role in shaping this aspect of the game.
5. The Diamond Casino Heist
As the name suggests, this update introduced the Diamond Casino Heist, the most profitable heist at the time of its release. Lester returns to lead the heist and, interestingly, to find himself a girlfriend.
This heist requires strategic planning, wise selection of teammates, and a careful approach to maximize potential earnings. Players can earn between 2 to 3 million dollars, allowing them to purchase various properties.
But the update isn’t just about the heist; it also introduced several other profitable opportunities. For example, securing first place in open-wheel races can earn players up to $40,000, while Gerald’s Last Play offers earnings ranging from $2,000 to $20,000 based on skill level.
Additionally, the update brought a large collection of new vehicles and weapons, which were well-received by players. Overall, the Diamond Casino Heist update added a wealth of exciting content and opportunities to GTA Online, significantly enhancing the gameplay experience.
6. After Hours
The After Hours update introduced nightclubs to GTA Online, becoming one of the most profitable business ventures in the game. These nightclubs offer a passive income stream and include a warehouse extension that helps players accumulate wealth with minimal effort.
This DLC update also brought back Tony Prince, a supporting character from GTA 4’s The Ballad of Gay Tony. The After Hours DLC also launched one of the most controversial vehicles in the game, the Oppressor Mk II. This flying bike, equipped with missiles, allows players to attack others from a distance, which many feel detracted from the authentic GTA experience.
Despite this, many players still view the After Hours update fondly. Nightclubs are expected to feature prominently in GTA 6, and Tony Prince might make a return.
7. Bikers
The Bikers update was designed especially for motorbike and gang enthusiasts. This content update introduced 13 new land vehicles, along with new clothing items, tattoos, and weapons. Players could use their in-game cash to purchase a clubhouse, enabling them to run a motorcycle club and start a business.
Owning a motorcycle club is a great way to spend time with friends, providing a base for interaction. Players can showcase their motorbikes, play cards, and enjoy various activities together. The clubhouse can be purchased in various locations, from the desert plains of Sandy Shores to the bustling streets of Los Santos.
This update offered players a unique way to engage with friends and enjoy the game, making it a favorite among motorbike and gang lovers.
8. The Doomsday Heist
The Doomsday Heist update introduced new and exciting content, significantly expanding the game. This update brings a fresh storyline featuring Lester Crest and a new character, billionaire Avon Hertz. In GTA Online, players join forces with Lester, Avon, and several government agents like Agent 14 and Phoenicia Rackman.
Avon believes that an unknown foreign entity is attempting to start a war and plunge San Andreas and the United States into a doomsday scenario. This heist is structured into three acts, making it a significant addition for both money-making and story content in GTA Online.
While many players appreciated the intense action and depth of this heist, it wasn’t without controversy. The update introduced several overpowered vehicles, which increased griefing and toxicity in the game. Despite this, The Doomsday Heist remains a favorite due to its high action and complex narrative.
9. The Contract
Many GTA Online players, including myself, agree that The Contract Update is undoubtedly one of the best updates the game has ever seen. The first thing you notice after installing this update is the return of Franklin, one of the best protagonists in the GTA series. In this update, Franklin approaches us with business proposals, offering us the opportunity to purchase four agencies. These agencies allow us to upgrade our weapons to Mk II variants.
Additionally, these agencies introduce us to Manny Tech, which helps enhance the capabilities of our vehicles. Besides Franklin, we also get to see his pet dog Chop and his friend Lamar in this update.
The Contract Update provides opportunities to expand our in-game budget through missions like payphone hits, where we can earn up to $70,000 in less than 10 minutes. Dr. Dre is also involved in this update, bringing a significant collection of songs and an interesting storyline.
Moreover, the update introduced several new vehicles, such as the Pfister Comet S2 Cabrio and the Pegassi Ignus. There are also various clothing items that allow players to customize their character’s appearance. The best part of this update is that we finally get to play as Franklin and enjoy missions with Franklin and Lamar’s fun antics.
10. The Cayo Perico Heist
The Cayo Perico Heist update in GTA Online is one of the grandest scale heists ever introduced. This update added a new map, Cayo Perico Island, and a new heist. The way missions progress and the preparation required for this heist are truly exceptional.
Whenever a new heist is added to the game, it comes with the opportunity to earn a substantial amount of money upon completion. The Cayo Perico Heist is a great way to make money, as you can complete it in about an hour and a half and earn around $1,400,000.
In addition to the heist, this update introduced many new characters and vehicles, giving the game a fresh and new look. There was also a focus on personal appearance and style, with hundreds of clothing options and different dance styles available to express your unique style in the game.
One standout feature of this heist is that you can complete it solo, without needing friends. This was a huge plus for players who wanted a single-player experience. Even today, many players repeatedly do this heist to grind for money.
