PAYDAY 2: Heist Planning Guide

Dive into the ultimate PAYDAY 2 experience with our comprehensive 'PAYDAY 2: Heist Planning Guide.' Perfectly suited for veterans and new players alike, this guide breaks down the intricate art of heist planning, ensuring you and your crew are always a step ahead. Learn to choose the right heist, grasp the essential mechanics, assign roles strategically, and prep your gear like a pro. With actionable tips for successful heists, you'll master the game and execute flawless jobs every time. Get ready to live out your high-stakes fantasies and become the heist mastermind you've always wanted to be!

PAYDAY 2: Heist Planning Guide

Choosing the Right Heist

So, you’ve gathered your crew, polished your masks, and are ready to dive into the criminal underworld of PAYDAY 2. But before you rush out guns blazing, it’s essential to pick the right heist. Not all heists are created equal, and choosing the right one can mean the difference between getting rich and getting arrested. Here’s a guide to help you make the best choice.

Know Your Crew

First thing’s first, think about your crew. Who are they and what skills do they bring to the table? Are they stealth masters or are they more like walking tanks? Knowing your team’s strengths and weaknesses will help you decide which heist plays to your advantage.

• Stealth Experts: If your crew is adept at sneaking around, consider heists like Shadow Raid or Framing Frame. These missions reward stealthy gameplay and can be completed without ever alerting the cops.
• Loud and Proud: If being subtle isn’t your style, go for heists like Bank Heist or Big Bank. These jobs are designed for big guns and even bigger explosions.

Difficulty Level

PAYDAY 2 offers a range of difficulty levels for each heist. Here’s a quick rundown:

• Normal: Good for beginners. Enemies are less aggressive, and objectives are straightforward.
• Hard: A step up, with more enemies and tougher objectives.
• Very Hard: Things start getting serious. Enemies hit harder and in greater numbers.
• Overkill: Your skill and equipment will be put to the test. Enemies are relentless.
• Death Wish/Death Sentence: For the pros only. Perfect coordination and planning are a must.

Choose a difficulty level that matches your crew’s experience and skill. You don’t want to bite off more than you can chew.

Heist Length

Some heists are quick in-and-out jobs, while others are epic multi-part missions. Consider how much time you have to play and choose accordingly.

• Quick Jobs: Heists like Jewelry Store or Four Stores are perfect for a quick session. They can typically be completed in under 20 minutes.
• Extended Missions: If you’ve got more time, heists like Rats or Election Day offer more complexity and can take upwards of an hour to finish.

Payout Potential

It’s no secret you’re in this for the loot. Some heists are more lucrative than others. Here’s a general idea of the payout potential:

• Low Risk, Low Reward: Heists like Nightclub or Mallcrasher offer decent payouts but aren’t going to make you a millionaire overnight.
• High Risk, High Reward: Heists like Big Oil or Hoxton Breakout are challenging but can net you a massive payday if you succeed.

Balancing risk and reward is key. Sometimes it’s better to go for multiple smaller heists instead of putting all your eggs in one high-risk basket.

Objectives and Special Requirements

Some heists have unique objectives or requirements that can add an extra layer of challenge:

• Keycards and Codes: Heists like GO Bank often require finding keycards or codes. Communication is crucial here.
• Time-Limited Objectives: Missions like Transport Heists put you against the clock. Speed and efficiency are paramount.
• Hostage Management: On heists like Bank Heist, keeping hostages ensures the police response is delayed. Assign roles accordingly.

Final Tips

• Plan Ahead: Use the planning phase to strategize. Look at the blueprints and assign roles to each player.
• Gear Up: Make sure everyone’s equipped properly. Stealth heists need silencers and ECM jammers, while loud jobs require heavy armor and firepower.
• Stay Flexible: Things don’t always go as planned. Be ready to switch tactics if needed.

By considering these factors, you’ll be better prepared to choose the right heist for your crew. Happy heisting, and remember, the perfect plan can turn you into a legend.

Understanding Heist Mechanics

In PAYDAY 2, heists are the heart of the game. They’re what you’ll spend most of your time planning, plotting, and executing. Getting the mechanics down is essential if you want to pull off jobs smoothly and maximize your loot. Here's everything you need to know about the basics of heist mechanics in PAYDAY 2.

Planning Phase

Before you even set foot in the heist location, you’ll spend some time in the planning phase. This part is all about setting up your strategy. Here’s what you should be looking at:

1. Pre-planning Board: Use this to choose your entry points, escape routes, and additional support like ammo bags or medic kits. Spend your heist funds wisely here!
2. Case Files: These give you background on the job and may include useful hints about guards, cameras, or special items you might need to find.
3. Choosing Gear: Equip yourself based on the mission. Stealth jobs demand silence and care, while loud heists require heavy armor and high-powered weapons.

Entry and Setup

Once you're on site, the clock starts ticking. Here are some key things to remember:

• Recon First: Always scope out the area. Identify guards, cameras, key doors, and civilians. Planning your moves reduces the chances of triggering alarms.
• Deploy Equipment: Place drills on vaults or safes, use ECM jammers to disable electronics temporarily, or lay down ammo and medic bags in strategic spots.

Concealment and Detection

Stealth is often your best bet, especially on harder difficulties. Here are key points regarding concealment and detection:

• Concealment Rating: Your gear has a concealment rating. Lower numbers mean you’re harder to spot. Use pistols, SMGs, and lightweight armor to keep your profile low.
• Detection Meter: This meter fills up when enemies start noticing you. Keep an eye on it! If it fills up, alarms will go off.
• Line of Sight: Guards and cameras can only detect you within their line of sight. Stay out of their view as much as possible.

Combat Mechanics

If things go south and stealth fails, it’s time to fight. Handling combat is all about coordination and firepower:

• Cover and Movement: Use cover to avoid taking too much damage. Moving around keeps you a harder target to hit.
• Ammo Management: Resources are limited. Pick up ammo drops from downed enemies and use your team's ammo bags as needed.
• Special Enemies: Be on the lookout for tougher law enforcement units like Shields, Tazers, and Bulldozers. They require different tactics to take down.

Objective Completion

Whether you’re stealing from a bank or rescuing hostages, completing objectives is usually a multi-step process:

• Follow Prompts: The game will guide you with prompts. Keep an eye on them to understand what’s next.
• Team Roles: Assign roles to your teammates--someone might focus on handling the drill, while others cover them from security.
• Timing Is Crucial: Many objectives like drilling or hacking take time. Protect these tasks while they’re in progress.

Escape Phase

The final phase of a heist is making your getaway. Here’s how to make it out with the loot:

• Clear the Path: Before moving to the escape point, try to clear out as many enemies as possible.
• Coordinate Movements: Stick together and move as a unit to increase your chances of survival.
• Choppers and Vans: Escape vehicles vary. Sometimes you'll need to run to a nearby van, while other times you'll have to wait for a chopper.

Tips for Success

• Communication is Key: Always keep your team updated on what’s happening. Whether it's spotting a guard or collecting loot, good teamwork makes the dream work.
• Learn from Failures: Every failed heist is a learning opportunity. Figure out what went wrong and improve for next time.
• Keep Practicing: The more you play, the better you’ll get at understanding and reacting to heist mechanics.

Mastering these heist mechanics will help you become a top-tier robber in PAYDAY 2. Happy heisting!

Assigning Roles and Responsibilities

In PAYDAY 2, pulling off the perfect heist requires more than just guns and guts. It's all about teamwork and knowing your crew's strengths and weaknesses. Here's how to assign roles and responsibilities to ensure you get in, grab the loot, and get out without getting swarmed by the cops.

The Mastermind - Leader of the Pack

Every heist needs a leader, and that's where the Mastermind comes in. This role is perfect for players who excel in strategy and team support. The Mastermind keeps the crew calm and focused, thanks to abilities like Inspire, which can quickly revive downed teammates. They're also the negotiator, extending custody time when things go south.

Responsibilities

• Coordinate the team's movements.
• Manage crowd control.
• Revive teammates.
• Negotiate with the police when needed.

Example of fitting skills: Inspire, Combat Medic, Joker (converting cops to fight for you)

The Enforcer - Muscle of the Operation

The Enforcer is your go-to guy for heavy lifting and dealing out a ton of firepower. If you want to keep the troops safe while they crack open safes or grab the loot, the Enforcer is your best bet. Armed with powerful weapons and sturdy armor, they can take and deal massive damage.

Responsibilities

• Handle heavy weaponry.
• Protect the team during shootouts.
• Carry and deploy ammo bags.
• Secure and transport heavy loot bags.

Example of fitting skills: Resilience, Iron Man, Shotgun CQB (Close Quarters Battle)

The Technician - Gadget Guru

Got locks to pick or drills to run? The Technician is your gadgets guy. This role is perfect for players who love dealing with electronics and explosives. Technicians ensure that the crew can access secure areas quickly and handle other technical tasks that could slow the heist down.

Responsibilities

• Set up and repair drills and thermite.
• Handle electronic devices.
• Place and detonate explosives.
• Deal with security systems (like cameras and trip mines).

Example of fitting skills: Drill Sergeant, Shaped Charge, Sentry Turret

The Ghost - Stealth Specialist

When the plan calls for subtlety, the Ghost is your silent but deadly operator. They’re experts in stealth, capable of sneaking past guards, picking locks without a sound, and disabling alarms. The Ghost is crucial for heists where staying unseen is the key to success.

Responsibilities

• Scout and mark enemies.
• Pick locks quietly.
• Disarm cameras and alarms.
• Perform silent takedowns.

Example of fitting skills: Nimble, ECM Overdrive, Sixth Sense

The Fugitive - The Wild Card

The Fugitive is a versatile role that offers a bit of everything but focuses a lot on surviving and causing chaos. They can fit into multiple play styles, depending on how you want to shape them. Got a team that’s good with coordination? Let the Fugitive operate loosely to plug any gaps.

Responsibilities

• Engage in close-quarters combat.
• Provide additional crowd control.
• Use deception and speed.
• Handle special enemies like Cloakers and Shields.

Example of fitting skills: Swan Song, Nine Lives, Pistol Messiah

Teamwork Makes the Dream Work

Assigning roles isn’t just about labeling; it’s about making sure each crew member knows what to do and when to do it. Before starting a heist, have a quick briefing. Lay out the plan, assign specific tasks, and make sure everyone knows their part. This prep work means when things get chaotic, you’re not scrambling to decide who does what.

Remember, flexibility is key. Sometimes the best-laid plans go sideways. Be ready to adapt and have a backup plan. The perfect heist is a combination of good preparation, solid execution, and the ability to think on your feet.

So, gear up, assign those roles, and let's get that payday!

Preparing Your Gear

Before you dive headfirst into a heist in PAYDAY 2, you’ll need to make sure your gear is up to the task. Planning and preparation can mean the difference between a flawless heist and a trip to jail. Here’s a rundown on how to get your loadout just right.

Choose Your Weapons Wisely

Your choice of weaponry will heavily impact the style and pace of your heist. Here's what you need to think about:

• Primary Weapons: These are your main tools of destruction. Assault rifles, shotguns, and sniper rifles fall into this category. If you expect heavy resistance, something with a high fire rate and large magazine, like an LMG, might be your best bet. For covert operations, a silenced SMG could work wonders.

• Secondary Weapons: These are your backup. Pistols, revolvers, and sawed-off shotguns fit this slot. Choose something that complements your primary. If your primary is loud and proud, you might want a silenced pistol for quieter moments.

• Modifications: Don’t forget about mods! Scopes, silencers, laser sights, and extended mags can turn a good weapon into a great one. Experiment to find what suits your playstyle.

Armor Up (or Down)

Armor is your friend, but it can also slow you down. There are different armor options, ranging from lightweight to heavy assault suits:

• Light Armor: Great for stealth missions. You'll move faster and have a lower detection risk but won’t withstand much fire.

• Heavy Armor: Perfect for loud heists where you expect a lot of gunfire. You'll be slow, but you can tank a lot of damage.

• Medium Armor: A balanced choice for those who want a bit of both worlds.

Deployables: Tools of the Trade

Deployables are critical for support and utility during heists. Each type has its advantages:

• Ammo Bag: Essential for long engagements. Keep the ammo flowing so you don’t run dry mid-fight.

• Med Bag: Keep your team in the fight by providing crucial healing.

• ECM Jammer: Perfect for stealth, letting you disable cameras and open electronic doors discreetly.

• Trip Mines: Set traps for enemies, ideal for holding choke points.

• First Aid Kits: Heal yourself or your team quickly without slowing down.

• Sentry Guns: Great for holding down areas and providing cover fire.

Skills Make the Heister

Your skills can significantly affect your heist performance. There are five skill trees in PAYDAY 2:

• Mastermind: Focuses on healing and crowd control.
• Enforcer: Heavy weapons and armor.
• Technician: Gadgets and explosives.
• Ghost: Stealth and agility.
• Fugitive: Versatility and survivability.

Choose skills that complement your chosen gear and playstyle. Mix and match to suit your heist needs.

Customize Your Mask

Finally, personalize your mask. This won’t affect gameplay, but it will give your heister some character. Choose from a variety of designs, patterns, and colors to make your mark on the Criminal Underworld.

Pre-Heist Checklist

Before hitting start, double-check these:

• Ammo and Health: Ensure you have enough of both.
• Team Communication: Coordinate roles and gear with your team.
• Plan B: Always have a backup plan in case things go sideways.

With the right gear and careful planning, you'll be ready to take on any heist in PAYDAY 2. So suit up, load out, and may your bags be heavy with loot!

Tips for Successful Heists

Alright heisters, PAYDAY 2 is all about teamwork, strategy, and making that sweet, sweet cash. Whether you're new to the game or a seasoned vet, here are some killer tips to make sure your heists go off without a hitch.

Plan Your Loadout Wisely

Weapons and Gear:

• Silenced Weapons: If you're going for a stealth approach, make sure everyone in your crew equips silenced weapons. An unsuppressed gunshot can blow your cover faster than you can say "Hands up!"
• ECM Jammers: These are crucial for shutting down cameras and preventing guards from calling for backup. At least one person in your team should bring ECM jammers.
• Medkits and Ammo Bags: Tackling a heist usually means balancing firepower and staying power. Make sure to have a mix of medkits and ammo bags to help keep your team in the fight.

Skills:

• Assign roles based on skills. For example, one player might focus on mastering the Mastermind skill tree to heal and control crowds, while another might focus on Enforcer to handle heavy firepower.

Communication is Key

• Team Coordination: Use voice chat or in-game text to keep everyone on the same page. Call out guards, cameras, and loot locations.
• Split Objectives: Divvy up tasks among your crew. Have one person handle the safecracking while another watches for incoming guards or police.

Recon and Preparation

• Case the Joint: Before jumping into the action, take time to scope out the area. Identify entry points, security measures, and potential threats.
• Use Preplanning: Many heists offer a preplanning phase where you can set up things like extra escape routes, insider help, or key card drops. Always take advantage of this to make your job easier.

Stealth vs. Loud

Stealth Approach

• Keep It Quiet: Always aim to take out guards silently and hide the bodies. If one gets spotted, it can trigger alarms and bring in the cavalry.
• Control the Civilians: Keep an eye on the civvies. Use cable ties to restrain them so they don’t trip alarms or call the cops.

Loud Approach

• Hold Your Ground: When the alarm is tripped, find defensible positions. Use choke points to your advantage.
• Manage Your Ammo and Health: Lots of enemies means lots of firefights. Keep track of your ammo and health status, and use your teammates' supplies as needed.

Escape Plan

• Know Your Exit: Before the heist heats up, identify your escape route. Whether it's a van in the alley or a chopper on the roof, always know where to go when it's time to bolt.
• Cover Each Other: On the way out, move as a group and provide covering fire for each other. You’re only as fast as your slowest teammate.

Failures and Restarts

• Learn from Mistakes: It’s okay if a heist doesn’t go as planned. Use the experience to figure out what went wrong and adjust your strategy next time.
• Stay Positive: Even if things go sideways, keep a cool head. Panicking will only make things worse.

By keeping these tips in mind, your crew will be ready to take on anything PAYDAY 2 throws at you. Good luck out there, and remember: stay sharp, stay quiet, and take the money and run!