The briefing
The September 2023 Cayo Perico adjustment reduced the value of most primary targets by 30%, with Pink Diamond and the first-run Madrazo Files treated separately. Most secondary loot fell by 10%, while Gold was excluded from that reduction. The setup fee also increased, changing the cost of starting another run.
The source estimated an average solo take moving from roughly GTA$1.5 million toward GTA$1.1 million under its example assumptions. That is an illustrative outcome, not the exact reward for every target, loot bag or difficulty. Earlier cooldown and loot-probability changes already affected how frequently a player could repeat the route profitably.
Compare net reward after setup costs and preparation time rather than relying on a pre-change headline. Co-op divides the take differently and opens different loot options. The article strongly criticizes the balance change; its opinion about whether the heist remains worthwhile should be separated from the dated reductions in the factual comparison.
Sources & further reading
Read the game and edition listed in the facts panel before applying gameplay advice. Story outcomes are marked as spoilers. Read our corrections policy.