How to Get Money in Watch Dogs 2: The Definitive Guide for Savvy Hackers

So, you’re roaming the vibrant streets of San Francisco in Watch Dogs 2, dodging Blume and DedSec rivals, and you’re finding yourself a little light in the digital wallet? Don’t sweat it! Earning money (or “cash”) in Watch Dogs 2 is surprisingly diverse and engaging, moving beyond simple grinding. Think of it as a digital playground where hacking prowess directly translates into cold, hard currency. Here’s your comprehensive guide to becoming a digital millionaire (or at least affording that sweet new RC Jumper upgrade).

The fastest route to becoming financially stable in Watch Dogs 2 involves a multi-pronged approach: completing main and side operations, strategically hacking bank accounts, engaging in Driver SF missions, selling valuable cars at auto shops, utilizing the ScoutX app for easy rewards, and leveraging online hacking opportunities. By combining these methods, you can quickly accumulate substantial wealth and unlock all the cool gadgets and abilities that San Francisco has to offer.

Building Your Digital Empire: Key Strategies for Wealth Accumulation

Hacking for Profit: The Bank Account Bonanza

This is your bread and butter. The “bank account hack” is arguably the most reliable method for consistent income. The key here isn’t just hacking – it’s hacking smart.

• Maximize Your Hacking Skill Tree: Invest early in skills that boost the amount you can steal from bank accounts. The “Improved Profiler” upgrade is crucial, as it allows you to target accounts with larger balances.
• Target High-Net-Worth Individuals: Use your profiler to identify individuals with substantial bank balances. Look for those with jobs like “CEO,” “Venture Capitalist,” or even “Doctor.” They’re more likely to be sitting on a digital goldmine.
• Be Discreet: While hacking is relatively risk-free, drawing attention to yourself near ATMs can still attract unwanted attention. Keep a low profile.
• Repeat Offenders: Don’t be afraid to revisit areas. Bank account balances replenish over time, so you can revisit previously hacked targets.

Operations: The Big Paydays

Don’t underestimate the power of Main and Side Operations. While they provide more than just money, the financial rewards are often significant, especially for longer and more complex missions.

• Prioritize Operations with High Payouts: Check the mission briefing carefully. Look for missions that specifically mention a substantial monetary reward.
• Bonus Objectives: Pay attention to bonus objectives within operations. Completing these often results in extra cash.
• Experiment with Different Approaches: Successfully completing operations with stealth earns you bonus experience and potentially unlocks extra rewards, including money.

Driver SF: Become a Rideshare Rockstar

The Driver SF app provides a legitimate (sort of) way to earn money. Think Uber, but with a slightly more…enthusiastic clientele.

• Complete Driver SF Missions: Successfully driving passengers to their destinations earns you money.
• Prioritize High-Paying Passengers: Look for passengers with higher fares. These missions often require driving faster or navigating more challenging routes.
• Maintain a Good Rating: Damaging your vehicle or driving recklessly can negatively impact your rating, leading to lower fares and fewer rides.
• Vehicle Choice Matters: Choose a fast and durable vehicle for Driver SF missions. Sports cars are great for speed, while SUVs offer better durability for rough terrain.

Sell Cars at Auto Shops: Turning Wheels into Wealth

This is a quick and easy way to offload unwanted vehicles for a profit.

• Find Valuable Vehicles: Look for expensive sports cars and luxury vehicles. These sell for significantly more than standard cars.
• Avoid Damaged Vehicles: The condition of the vehicle affects its selling price. Minimize damage before selling it.
• Memorize Locations: Remember the locations of auto shops throughout San Francisco. This allows you to quickly sell cars whenever you find a valuable one.
• Strategic Vehicle Acquisition: Some areas of the city have a higher concentration of expensive vehicles. Explore these areas to find valuable cars to sell.

ScoutX App: Snap and Earn

The ScoutX app provides a simple and relaxing way to earn money by taking pictures of landmarks and interesting locations.

• Complete ScoutX Challenges: Follow the instructions in the ScoutX app to find specific landmarks and take pictures of them.
• Capture High-Quality Photos: Frame your shots carefully to maximize your rewards.
• Explore New Areas: The ScoutX app encourages you to explore different parts of San Francisco, uncovering new landmarks and earning money along the way.
• Repeatable Rewards: ScoutX challenges can sometimes be repeated, providing a steady stream of income.

Online Hacking and Multiplayer: A Risky But Rewarding Gamble

Engaging in online hacking and multiplayer activities can be a lucrative, albeit risky, way to earn money.

• Online Invasions: Successfully invading another player’s game and stealing their data can earn you a significant amount of money. However, be prepared for a challenge, as the other player will be actively trying to stop you.
• Bounty Hunter Mode: Participating in Bounty Hunter mode, either as the hunter or the hunted, can also yield substantial rewards.
• Co-op Missions: Completing co-op missions with other players is another way to earn money and experience.
• Remember the Risks: Online activities carry the risk of being caught or defeated, resulting in a loss of progress and potential monetary penalties.

Other Avenues for Getting Money

• Looting Dead Enemies: After engaging in combat, be sure to loot the bodies of fallen enemies. They often carry cash and other valuable items.
• Finding Money Bags: Keep an eye out for hidden money bags scattered throughout the game world. These bags can contain a significant amount of cash.
• Completing Side Activities: Participate in various side activities, such as races and puzzles, to earn additional rewards, including money.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Money in Watch Dogs 2

1. How much money do I need to “beat” Watch Dogs 2?

There’s no specific “money requirement” to complete the main storyline. However, having ample cash allows you to purchase essential hacking tools, weapons, vehicles, and clothing, significantly enhancing your gameplay experience. Aim to have at least $50,000 to $100,000 by the mid-game to comfortably afford upgrades and equipment.

2. Is there a money glitch or exploit in Watch Dogs 2?

While glitches and exploits may exist temporarily, they are typically patched by the developers. Relying on these methods can also diminish the enjoyment of the game. Focus on the legitimate strategies outlined above for a more sustainable and rewarding experience.

3. What should I spend my money on first?

Prioritize essential hacking tools and upgrades. The RC Jumper is invaluable for reconnaissance and completing missions stealthily. Upgrading your hacking skills, particularly those that increase bank account hacking yields, is also a wise investment.

4. Are there any “money sinks” in Watch Dogs 2?

Yes! Aside from tools and upgrades, clothing, vehicles, and customization options can quickly deplete your funds. Be mindful of your spending and prioritize essential items before indulging in purely cosmetic purchases.

5. Can I lose money in Watch Dogs 2?

Yes, you can lose money if you are arrested by the police or defeated by other players in online hacking invasions. Avoid reckless behavior and prioritize stealth to minimize these losses.

6. Does the difficulty level affect how much money I earn?

No, the difficulty level does not directly impact the amount of money you earn from completing missions or hacking bank accounts. However, higher difficulty levels may make it more challenging to complete missions, potentially slowing down your overall income rate.

7. What’s the best car to steal and sell for profit?

Expensive sports cars and luxury vehicles are the most profitable to sell. Look for models like the “Landrock” or the “Rodrigues”. These can often be found in wealthy neighborhoods and near high-end dealerships.

8. How often do bank account balances replenish?

Bank account balances replenish over time, but the exact rate is not explicitly defined. Check previously hacked accounts periodically to see if they have been replenished. Typically, waiting a few in-game days is sufficient.

9. Is it worth investing in clothing and customization items?

This is entirely up to personal preference. While clothing and customization items do not provide any gameplay advantages, they allow you to express your individual style and personalize your character.

10. Can I buy a house or property in Watch Dogs 2?

No, Watch Dogs 2 does not feature the ability to purchase houses or property. Your main base of operations remains the mobile DedSec headquarters.

11. How do I find more Driver SF missions?

The Driver SF app will periodically offer new missions. Ensure you have completed any currently available missions to unlock new opportunities. You can also drive around the city to trigger new missions.

12. Can I hack ATMs directly for a large payout?

No, you cannot directly hack ATMs to steal large sums of money. Hacking ATMs typically reveals nearby bank accounts that you can then hack individually. Focus on profiling individuals with high bank balances near ATMs instead.

By mastering these techniques and understanding the game’s economy, you’ll be well on your way to accumulating a fortune in Watch Dogs 2. Happy hacking, and may your digital coffers overflow!