Grand Theft Auto V offers one of the most gripping narratives in the series, culminating in a finale where players must make a crucial decision that impacts the fate of all three protagonists. However, what many players don’t realize is that your choices throughout the game can subtly influence the ending—and even unlock additional outcomes. Whether you’re replaying the story or exploring it for the first time with fresh GTA 5 accounts, here are the 8 key decisions that shape your ending.
1. The Jewelry Store Heist Approach
Your first major choice comes during "The Jewelry Store Job." Opting for the "Smart" approach (using disguises and a cleaner escape) or the "Loud" approach (going in guns blazing) affects your payout and later opportunities. While this doesn’t directly alter the ending, it sets the tone for how you handle heists—impacting your available funds and crew loyalty.
2. Choosing the Right Crew for "The Big Score"
During "The Big Score," you’ll decide between the "Obvious" and the "Subtle" approach. Picking the right crew members (like Packie for better shooting) can make the finale smoother. Some GTA accounts even suggest that higher-skilled crews improve survival odds in later missions.
3. Franklin’s Dealings with Devin Weston
Devin Weston is a key figure in the story. How Franklin interacts with him—whether by completing his assassination missions or ignoring them—can influence the final mission’s dialogue and options.
4. Michael’s Family Decisions
Michael’s relationship with his family is pivotal. Reconnecting with them (or not) through side missions like "Father/Son" or "Marriage Counseling" can alter cutscenes and even unlock unique dialogue in the finale.
5. Trevor’s Paranoia Level
Trevor’s mental state fluctuates based on your actions. Avoiding unnecessary chaos (like killing sprees) keeps him more stable, which can subtly affect his behavior in the final missions.
6. The Assassination Missions Timing
Completing Lester’s assassination missions after the main story (and investing wisely) can maximize your profits, giving you more resources to influence the ending. Some players with multiple GTA 5 accounts swear by this strategy for the best financial outcome.
7. The Final Choice: Deathwish or Betrayal?
The biggest decision comes at the end: choosing between killing Michael, killing Trevor, or the "Deathwish" option (going after everyone). Your relationships with both characters, shaped by earlier interactions, will make this choice feel more personal.
8. Post-Game Decisions
Even after the credits roll, your actions matter. Completing leftover missions or side activities (like Epsilon or the Altruist Cult) can unlock additional scenes, fleshing out the ending further.
Final Thoughts
GTA V’s ending isn’t just about one choice—it’s a culmination of your journey. Whether you’re a veteran with multiple GTA accounts or a newcomer exploring the story for the first time, these 8 decisions ensure you experience every possible outcome. And remember, U4N recommends saving before the finale to explore all three endings without restarting.
