Welcome to your ultimate PAYDAY 2: Heist Locations Guide! Ready to master the art of execution in every heist? Dive into our comprehensive guide where we unravel the secrets behind every heist location. Whether you’re a seasoned bank buster or new to the criminal world, understanding the terrain is key to your success. Get an insightful Overview of Heist Locations, uncover Key Points of Interest, and boost your performance with the Best Strategies for Each Location. Learn the ins and outs of Managing Security Systems and get pro Tips for Navigating Heist Maps. Prepare to step up your game and execute flawless heists like never before!

Overview of Heist Locations#

PAYDAY 2 has a ton of interesting heist locations where you and your crew can pull off some epic crimes. These locations range from small-time stores to major banks and even exclusive private properties. Let’s break down some of the key heist locations you’ll encounter in the game.

Banks#

First World Bank
The First World Bank is a classic location in PAYDAY 2. It’s a massive building with multiple floors and heavily armored security. You’ll find it challenging with all the cameras, guards, and civilians. But the reward is worth it if you can crack the vault and escape without getting caught.

Bank Heist
There are a few different versions of Bank Heist - Deposit, Cash, Gold, and Random. Each one has slight variations in layout and objectives, but they generally revolve around infiltrating the bank, drilling into the vault, and making a clean getaway with as much loot as possible.

Jewelry Stores#

Jewelry Store
This is one of the more straightforward heists in the game. The Jewelry Store is a small shop with some display cases full of valuables. Guards are light, and security is low, making it an ideal target for new players to practice their skills. Just smash and grab and don’t forget to watch out for the alarms.

Diamond Store
A step up from the Jewelry Store, the Diamond Store features more valuable items and increased security measures. More guards, more cameras, and more complexity to the layout make it a bit tougher. Make sure you plan your heist carefully and look out for those sneaky laser alarms.

Malls and Stores#

Four Stores
The Four Stores heist takes you through a block housing four different commercial establishments. The goal is to gather a specified amount of money by robbing these stores. Each store has different levels of security and various loot, offering a variety of strategic options for your crew.

Mallcrasher
Mallcrasher is all about causing as much destruction as you can in a huge shopping mall. Break into stores, smash merchandise, and create chaos. The more collateral damage you cause, the closer you get to meeting the heist’s requirement. But beware, the police response will be heavy and fast.

Nightclubs and Casinos#

Nightclub
The Nightclub is a bustling venue with a lot of cash flowing through it. Your mission is to gain access to the office and safes, steal cash or cocaine, and make your escape. The darkness and loud music can work to your advantage if you stay stealthy, but be ready for a fight if things get loud.

Golden Grin Casino
One of the most secure heist locations, the Golden Grin Casino, demands thorough planning and precision. You’ll need to navigate a labyrinth of rooms, avoid high-tech security systems, and deal with several guards to pull off a big win at this high-risk, high-reward location.

Private Residences#

Election Day
This heist has two parts: the first part is securing ballot machines in a warehouse, and the second part involves infiltrating a high-profile house to tamper with evidence. Blending stealth and strategy is key to success in this high-stakes mission.

Shadow Raid
If you’re a fan of stealth, the Shadow Raid heist is perfect for you. Your goal is to infiltrate a secure warehouse under the cover of night with as little noise as possible. Avoid guards and cameras, gather high-value items, and get out without triggering any alarms. This location tests your sneaky skills to the max.

Art Galleries and Museums#

Framing Frame
This is a three-day heist that takes you through an art gallery, framing a senator, and finally planting evidence in his mansion. The gallery is filled with paintings you need to steal, but it’s patrolled heavily by guards and cameras. Keep a lookout for hidden cameras and silent alarms that can quickly escalate the situation.

The Diamond
Set in a museum, this heist revolves around stealing the titular diamond. The location has numerous security measures including guards, lasers, and motion detectors. You’ll need to navigate through the museum carefully, dealing with obstacles and puzzles along the way.

Each heist location in PAYDAY 2 offers unique challenges and requires different strategies. Teamwork, planning, and a good mix of skills will help you and your crew walk away with the loot and your freedom.

Key Points of Interest#

When planning your heists in PAYDAY 2, knowing the key points of interest in each location can mean the difference between a flawless job and a botched mission. Here’s a handy guide to some crucial hotspots you’ll need to keep an eye on.

The Vault#

Location Cheats#

• Bank Heist: Usually, the vault is in the back, locked up tighter than Fort Knox. Don’t forget to manage the cameras to avoid getting caught.
• Big Bank: This location has one of the nastiest vaults to crack, deep in the bank. Scout the rooftop for access points.

Safety Measures#

• Security Room: Take out the guards silently before they trigger alarms.
• Drill or C4?: Drilling is loud and time-consuming—bring C4 if you want quick access.

Security Rooms#

Why They’re Important#

Security rooms often house the security guards and surveillance feeds. Disable these early to minimize issues.

Access Points#

• Keycards: Found on guards or in locked rooms.
• ECM Jammers: Can temporarily disable systems, but not a permanent fix.

Cameras#

Strategic Views#

Cameras are scattered throughout every heist location and they’re a huge annoyance. Place them on your priority list.

Tips#

• Spotting: Use the camera feed in the security room to spot guards and civilians without being seen.
• Blinding: Jam them or take cameras out discreetly to avoid alerting guards.

Guard Patrol Routes#

Why They Matter#

Knowing where guards will walk is vital for planning your heists and avoiding unnecessary firefights.

How to Track#

• Observe: Spend the first few minutes watching patterns.
• Markers: Use in-game spotting to keep your crew aware of movements.

Civilians#

Innocent Bystanders#

They can be your biggest asset or your worst nightmare, depending on how you handle them.

Management#

• Cable Ties: Use them to keep civilians from running around and alerting guards.
• Intimidation: Sometimes, just shouting at them is enough to get them to comply—don’t forget to keep an eye on them.

Escape Routes#

Plan Your Exit#

Even the best heists can go wrong. Always have an escape plan that your team knows well.

Popular Exits#

• Van: The classic getaway vehicle. Keep it close and clear.
• Elevators: Use these for quick vertical movements to avoid firefights.
• Rooftops: If things go wrong, heading up might give you the advantage of high ground or an escape by zip-line.

Special Items#

Tools of the Trade#

Certain missions might need special items to succeed—plan ahead and equip the right gear.

Common Needs#

• Crowbars: For prying open crates and doors.
• Thermal Drill: Essential for super-secure heists involving major vaults.
• C4/Saw: For rapid breaches and cutting through heavy security.

Safe Zones#

Regroup and Reload#

These are important for planning and regrouping, especially in large or multi-stage heists.

Safe Zones Availability#

• Tied Up Civilians: Use these areas as safe zones since guards won’t shoot near civilians.
• Hostage Locations: Stack your hostages where you can easily watch them without being exposed.

Carefully taking note of these key points of interest will give you a significant edge in your PAYDAY 2 heists. Keep your eye out and plan meticulously, and who knows, maybe you’ll get away without a scratch.

PAYDAY 2: Heist Locations Guide#

Best Strategies for Each Location#

In PAYDAY 2, not all heist locations are created equal. Each one has its quirks, hidden enemies, and unique challenges. Here’s a breakdown of the best strategies for some of the game’s most iconic spots to help you pull off the perfect heist.

Bank Heist: Deposit#

Overview: A classic heist setting, the bank is all about precision and timing. You’ll start outside and need to get inside, disable security, and crack the vault.

Best Strategy#

• Recon First: Before doing anything, scope out the guards and camera placement. Remember, patience is key.
• Stealth Approach: Equip silencers and take out cameras first. If you have a technician on your team, set up an ECM jammer to disable additional electronic security.
• Control the Crowd: Once inside, take hostages to keep civilians under control and prevent them from tripping alarms.
• Team Coordination: Assign roles; one for lockpicking the doors, one for keeping hostages, one for managing guards, and a final one for handling the loot.
• Escape Route: Plan your exit strategy early. Know where the van will be and clear the path from the bank to the escape point.

Jewelry Store#

Overview: This smaller heist is perfect for a quick score, but it can still be tricky.

Best Strategy#

• Stealth Mode: This heist can be completed completely in stealth. Suppressed weapons and melee takedowns are your best friends here.
• Control Civilians Quickly: As soon as you mask up, get control of the store’s civilians. Use zip-ties to keep them from alerting the cops.
• Efficient Looting: Smash the display cases and grab the jewelry swiftly. There’s usually a safe in the back—identify it early.
• Quick Exit: Plan your exit route before even entering the store. Make a fast dash to the getaway vehicle once you’ve grabbed the loot.

Four Stores#

Overview: This is a more spread-out location with four different stores to hit, each with its own guards and civilians.

Best Strategy#

• Simultaneous Control: Coordinate with your team to hit all four stores at the same time. This reduces the risk of alarms being raised and buys you precious time.
• Mark the Guards: Use spotter skills to keep track of patrolling guards. Take them out quietly if needed.
• Crowd Control: Clear each store of civilians and guards before moving to the next. Use hostages as leverage.
• Exit Strategy: Make sure everyone knows where the getaway car will be and clear any obstacles on the way.

Nightclub#

Overview: High risk, high reward. Nightclubs are bustling with patrons, making it easy to blend but also easy to trip alarms.

Best Strategy#

• Dress the Part: Start by blending in. Take your time to walk through the club, observe the guards, and find the office with the safe.
• Back Doors: Use back entrances or side doors to sneak around without attracting attention.
• Distraction: Create a distraction to divert guards. Smoke bombs or noise makers can help.
• Split Roles: Assign one person to crowd control inside, while the rest tackle the safe and bouncers.
• Exit Plan: Make sure you know all the exits and quickest paths. Split up if necessary to avoid police confrontation.

Mallcrasher#

Overview: Time to cause chaos. Unlike the others, this heist is less about stealth and more about sheer destruction to rack up dollar amounts.

Best Strategy#

• Efficient Destruction: Focus on high-value items first like jewelry cases, electronics, and store windows.
• Guard Management: Keep an eye on the security guards. Disable them early to minimize interference.
• Dynamic Movement: Keep moving through the mall to avoid getting pinned down by cops.
• Armor Up: Because you’re not staying stealthy, equipping heavier armor can help absorb damage.
• Escape Route: As always, know where your getaway vehicle will be and clear the path ahead of time.

Each heist in PAYDAY 2 is a thrilling challenge, and with these tips, you’ll be better prepared to tackle each unique location. Remember, a well-coordinated team always has the edge, so communicate, plan, and execute your heists with precision. Happy heisting!

Managing Security Systems#

If you’re planning a stealthy heist in PAYDAY 2, understanding and managing security systems is crucial. These systems are the bane of any would-be thief, but with the right approach, they can be neutralized effectively. Let’s break down everything you need to know.

Cameras: Eyes on You#

Cameras are your first major hurdle. They’re everywhere and can instantly alert guards if they spot something suspicious. Here’s how to deal with them:

• Spotting and Marking: Keep an eye out for cameras as soon as you enter the heist location. Use your Sixth Sense or just good old eyeballing to spot them. Mark them so your team knows their locations.

• Camera Loop: If you’ve got the Camera Loop skill, use it wisely. It temporarily disables a camera, giving you a short window to move past or take down a guard in its view.

• Destroying Cameras: You can shoot cameras, but this will alert guards if they notice a downed one. This method is risky and should be a last resort.

• Control Room: Some maps have a security room with a camera operator. Taking down the guard and managing the bodies can effectively disable all cameras. Make sure to update teammates so nobody is surprised by a camera-free zone.

Guards and Patrol Routes#

Guards are the human element in the security systems, and they have specific patrol routes. Learning and manipulating these routes can give you an edge.

• Tagging Guards: Use the spotter skill or track them visually to mark guards. This helps everyone on the team know their movements and avoid unpleasant surprises.

• Pagers: Each guard carries a pager, and you can only answer four per heist before alarm systems kick in. Plan your guard take-downs carefully to avoid this limit.

• Distractions: Use ECM jammers or other distractions like throwing a bag or creating noise to temporarily divert guards’ attention. This can open up moments for you to move or take action.

Keycards and Access Points#

Certain areas require keycards, and managing these access points is vital for smooth progression through a heist.

• Finding Keycards: Keycards are often found on guards, in security rooms, or lying around in key areas. Keep an eye out and check your objectives for hints on their locations.

• Using Keycards: One keycard is usually enough to open a critical door or disable a security feature, but sometimes you might need more than one. Communicate with your team to make the most of each keycard you find.

• Silent Access: Opening doors quietly without setting off alarms often requires keycards, so they’re preferable to loud drills or explosive breaching for stealth runs.

Alarm Systems#

Alarms can doom a heist, so knowing how to deal with them is essential. From doors to safes, alarm mechanisms are diverse but manageable.

• Silent Drills and Saws: Equip silenced drills or saws when possible. Normal drills make noise and attract attention, while silenced versions can do the job quietly.

• Laser Grids: Some high-security areas have laser grids. Disabling them usually requires locating and interacting with specific terminals or switches. One misstep can trigger an alarm, so proceed with caution.

• ECM Jammers: These gadgets can temporarily disable alarms and cameras, giving you a crucial window to complete objectives without attracting attention. Upgrade your ECM skills for maximum effectiveness.

Practice, Teamwork, and Coordination#

Lastly, always remember that practice makes perfect. Familiarize yourself with different heist locations, security layouts, and always maintain clear communication with your team. Running a smooth operation depends on everyone knowing their role and executing flawlessly.

By mastering the art of managing security systems, you’ll be pulling off heists like a pro in no time. Good luck and happy heisting!

Tips for Navigating Heist Maps#

Navigating heist maps in PAYDAY 2 can be a daunting task, especially when the heat is on and you’ve got bags of loot to secure. Whether you’re a newbie or a veteran looking to sharpen your skills, these tips will help you master the art of moving through those intense environments.

Know Before You Go#

Preparation is Key: Before you start any heist, spend some time in the pre-planning phase. Review the map and take note of guard patterns, cameras, and possible escape routes. This will give you a good sense of where to go and what to avoid.

Intel is Everything: Some heists allow you to buy additional intel like blueprints or insider info. These documents can indicate security cameras, guard patrols, and alarm locations. This knowledge is crucial for planning your routes and avoiding pitfalls.

Keep an Eye on Danger Zones#

Marking Enemies: Use your team’s spotter ability to mark enemies and cameras as you move. This makes them visible to the entire team, helping you avoid getting caught off guard.

Cameras, Cameras, Cameras: Cameras are your worst enemy in a stealth heist. Learn their locations and avoid their line of sight. If you must pass through a monitored area, take out the cameras first (be quick about it, though, because guards will notice downed cameras after a while).

Silent but Deadly: Always carry a silenced weapon for taking out guards and cameras quietly. This will allow you to neutralize threats without alerting the whole building.

Efficient Movement#

Crouch and Conquer: Moving while crouched makes you quieter, which is crucial when sneaking past guards. Crouch in dense patrol areas to avoid detection.

Cover is Your Friend: Always move from cover to cover to avoid being seen. Use walls, furniture, and vehicles to your advantage. If you’re in an open space, dashing quickly to the next cover spot is usually safer than staying put.

Shut the Door: Closing doors behind you can slow down pursuing guards and reduce the chances of detection. It’s a small action that buys you valuable time.

Plan Your Escape#

Multiple Escape Routes: Always have more than one escape route in mind. Things can go sideways quickly, so having a backup plan (or two) can make the difference between success and failure.

Synchronize with Your Team: Coordinate with your team to execute moves simultaneously. A well-timed synchrony can disorient guards and clear paths that would have been impossible to cross alone.

Mobility Tools: Consider investing in mobility skills or equipment like zip lines, ladders, and extra bags for loot. These can help you move swiftly and avoid prolonged exposure in hot zones.

Know the Map#

Practice Makes Perfect: Familiarize yourself with the maps through practice. Use the offline mode or less risky heists to learn the layout and intricacies of each map.

Landmarks Are Key: Identify and remember key landmarks on the map. Not only do they help orient you, but they often act as waypoints or reference points that are useful for planning and communication.

Team Communication#

Headsets Save Lives: Always communicate with your team. Call out enemy positions, coordinate actions, and share intel. Good communication drastically increases your chances of a successful heist.

Role Assignment: Assign specific roles to team members based on the map and the heist plan. For instance, designate someone as the lookout, another as the keyholder, and others as the muscle. Knowing your role and sticking to it helps keep the team efficient.

Learn from Mistakes#

Post-Heist Reviews: After each heist, review what went wrong and right with your team. Learning from your mistakes and fine-tuning your strategies will make navigating future heists much easier.

Adapt and Evolve: Be ready to adapt. No plan survives first contact. If things go awry, stay calm, communicate with your team, and adapt your strategy on the fly.

By mastering these tips, you’ll navigate PAYDAY 2’s heist maps like a pro. Remember, the key to successful heists is practice, planning, and teamwork. Keep honing your skills, and soon you’ll be pulling off perfect heists with ease.