How to Call Your Kosatka in GTA Online: A Comprehensive Guide
The Kosatka submarine is a game-changer in GTA Online, especially for planning and executing the Cayo Perico Heist. Being able to summon this behemoth of the deep wherever you need it is crucial for efficient gameplay. This comprehensive guide will walk you through every step of calling your Kosatka, troubleshooting common issues, and maximizing its utility.
## Why You Need to Know How to Call Your Kosatka
The Kosatka is much more than just a submarine; it’s a mobile operations base. It houses the planning screen for the Cayo Perico Heist, allowing you to initiate scouting missions and set up the heist itself. Furthermore, it’s equipped with weapons, a moon pool for storing smaller vehicles, and living quarters. Quick access to the Kosatka means:
* **Faster Heist Planning:** Launch scouting missions and finalize heist setups without long travel times.
* **Strategic Positioning:** Call the Kosatka to strategic locations around the map for quick getaways or to ambush unsuspecting players.
* **Safe Haven:** Use the Kosatka as a safe underwater base, protected from most threats.
* **Vehicle Deployment:** Quickly access and deploy vehicles stored in the Kosatka’s moon pool, such as the Toreador or the Sparrow helicopter.
## Step-by-Step Guide to Calling Your Kosatka
The process of calling your Kosatka is relatively straightforward, but it’s essential to follow these steps correctly:
**1. Open Your Interaction Menu:**
* On PlayStation: Press and hold the touchpad.
* On Xbox: Press and hold the view button (the one that looks like two overlapping squares).
* On PC: Press the ‘M’ key.
This will bring up the Interaction Menu, your central hub for various in-game actions.
**2. Navigate to the ‘Services’ Option:**
Use the directional buttons (or mouse wheel on PC) to scroll through the Interaction Menu options until you find ‘Services.’ Select it.
**3. Select ‘Kosatka’:**
Within the ‘Services’ menu, you’ll see a list of services available to you, including those for other owned properties like the Avenger or Terrorbyte. Look for ‘Kosatka’ and select it.
**4. Request Kosatka:**
After selecting ‘Kosatka,’ you’ll be presented with the option to ‘Request Kosatka.’ Select this option. The game will then prompt you with a confirmation message.
**5. Choose a Location (Important!):**
This is a crucial step. The game *usually* defaults to the nearest available deep-water location. However, pay attention to the prompt that appears. The game may occasionally place the Kosatka in a less-than-ideal spot. It will appear on your map as a submarine icon. You *cannot* choose a specific spot; the game chooses for you within a designated radius. Generally, aim to be near a large body of water, like the ocean surrounding Los Santos or the Alamo Sea. Avoid trying to call it in shallow rivers or small lakes, as this won’t work.
**6. Wait for Delivery:**
After confirming the request, the Kosatka will take a few moments to arrive. You’ll receive a notification on the top left of your screen confirming the Kosatka is en route. Watch your map for the submarine icon to appear, indicating its location. The delivery time can vary slightly depending on your distance from a suitable location and the overall server load.
**7. Locate and Access the Kosatka:**
Once the Kosatka has arrived, head towards its location marked on your map. You can use a boat, a helicopter, or even swim (though swimming can be slow and dangerous due to sharks). Once you’re close enough, you’ll see a blue corona indicating the entry point. Swim or drive your boat into the corona to enter the Kosatka.
## Troubleshooting Common Issues When Calling Your Kosatka
Even with the simple steps outlined above, you might encounter issues. Here’s how to troubleshoot some common problems:
**1. ‘Kosatka Not Available’:**
* **Cooldown Period:** The Kosatka has a cooldown period after being destroyed or after you’ve recently requested it. Wait a few minutes and try again. The cooldown is usually around 2-5 minutes.
* **Too Close to Another Kosatka:** If another player in your session has their Kosatka nearby, you might not be able to call yours. Move further away from their location and try again.
* **Mission Restrictions:** Some missions or activities might temporarily restrict access to services, including the Kosatka. Complete the current mission or activity and try again.
* **Game Glitches:** Occasionally, the game might glitch. Try switching sessions (finding a new lobby) to see if that resolves the issue.
**2. Kosatka Spawning in an Undesirable Location:**
* **Limited Control:** Unfortunately, you don’t have precise control over where the Kosatka spawns. The game automatically chooses the nearest suitable location.
* **Move to a Better Location:** If the Kosatka spawns in a inconvenient spot, exit the sub and move to a location that is in deeper water. Then recall the kosatka. The game will select a new suitable location. It might take a few tries.
* **Use a Boat:** If the Kosatka spawns far offshore, use a boat to reach it quickly. Alternatively, use the Sparrow helicopter stored in the Kosatka’s moon pool if you have purchased that upgrade.
**3. Unable to Enter the Kosatka:**
* **Check for the Blue Corona:** Make sure you’re approaching the Kosatka at the designated entry point marked by the blue corona. This is usually near the conning tower (the tall structure on top of the submarine).
* **Clearance:** Ensure there are no obstructions around the entry point. If a boat or another object is blocking the corona, move it out of the way.
* **Underwater Breathing:** If the entry point is deep underwater, make sure you have sufficient oxygen or use scuba gear to avoid drowning.
* **Game Glitches:** Again, a game glitch could be the culprit. Try restarting your game or switching sessions.
**4. Kosatka Destroyed:**
* **Call Mors Mutual Insurance:** If your Kosatka is destroyed, you can call Mors Mutual Insurance (if you have insurance coverage) to have it replaced. The cost is minimal.
* **Cooldown Period:** Even after calling Mors Mutual, there will still be a cooldown period before you can request the Kosatka again.
## Tips and Tricks for Kosatka Usage
Here are some tips to help you get the most out of your Kosatka:
* **Strategic Positioning for Heist Prep:** Park the Kosatka near Cayo Perico (after your first visit) for faster access to the island during scouting missions. This significantly reduces travel time.
* **Moon Pool Vehicles:** Invest in the Sparrow helicopter or the Toreador car, both of which can be stored in the Kosatka’s moon pool. These vehicles are invaluable for quick transportation and combat.
* **Missile Barrage:** Utilize the Kosatka’s guided missiles to defend yourself against attackers or to clear obstacles. Be mindful of the cooldown period on missile strikes.
* **Sonar Station:** Purchase the sonar station upgrade to locate underwater caches and vehicles. This can be a lucrative way to earn extra money.
* **Interior Customization:** Customize the Kosatka’s interior with personal quarters, a weapons workshop, and a missile battery for enhanced comfort and functionality.
* **Fast Travel:** Use the Kosatka’s fast travel option to quickly move to different locations on the map (requires a fee). This can save you considerable time when traveling long distances.
## Optimizing Your Kosatka Experience
To truly master the Kosatka, consider these advanced strategies:
**1. Mastering the Sparrow Helicopter:**
The Sparrow is arguably the most useful vehicle for Cayo Perico Heist preparation. Its speed and maneuverability allow you to quickly scout the island and locate points of interest. Practice flying the Sparrow to improve your skills and avoid crashing.
* **Quick Landing and Takeoff:** Learn to land and take off quickly from tight spaces, such as rooftops and docks. This will save you valuable time during scouting missions.
* **Weaponized Capabilities:** The Sparrow is equipped with missiles and machine guns. Use these weapons to defend yourself against enemies or to destroy obstacles.
* **Evasive Maneuvers:** Practice evasive maneuvers to avoid being shot down by enemy helicopters or surface-to-air missiles.
**2. Utilizing the Toreador Car:**
The Toreador is an amphibious car with powerful missiles and unlimited boost. It’s perfect for underwater exploration and combat.
* **Underwater Combat:** Use the Toreador’s missiles to destroy enemy submarines or boats. The Toreador can withstand a surprising amount of damage.
* **Rapid Deployment:** The Toreador can be launched directly from the Kosatka’s moon pool, allowing for rapid deployment in any situation.
* **Boost Capability:** The Toreador’s boost can be used to quickly escape from danger or to reach distant locations.
**3. Cayo Perico Heist Strategies:**
* **Stealth Approach:** Use the Kosatka to approach Cayo Perico undetected. Submerge the Kosatka near the island and use the cutting torch to breach the underwater drainage tunnel.
* **Infiltration Points:** The Kosatka can be used to access various infiltration points on Cayo Perico, such as the North Dock or the airstrip.
* **Escape Route:** After completing the heist, use the Kosatka to escape from Cayo Perico undetected. Submerge the Kosatka and disappear into the depths of the ocean.
**4. Managing Your Resources:**
* **Money Management:** The Kosatka requires a significant initial investment, but it can quickly pay for itself through the Cayo Perico Heist. Prioritize earning money to purchase the Kosatka and its upgrades.
* **Ammunition:** Stock up on ammunition for your weapons and vehicles. The Kosatka has a weapons workshop where you can purchase ammunition and customize your weapons.
* **Health and Armor:** Always carry health packs and armor to replenish your health and protect yourself from damage.
## Common Kosatka Upgrades and Their Benefits:
Several upgrades can be added to the Kosatka to improve its performance and functionality. Here’s a rundown of the most important ones:
* **Sonar Station:** Allows you to locate hidden caches and vehicles underwater, providing additional income opportunities.
* **Weapons Workshop:** Enables you to customize your weapons and purchase ammunition directly from the Kosatka.
* **Missile Battery:** Adds a powerful missile battery to the Kosatka, allowing you to defend yourself against attackers.
* **Guided Missiles:** Equips the Kosatka with guided missiles that can be used to destroy targets from a distance. This is useful for completing missions and defending yourself against enemies.
* **Sparrow Helicopter Storage:** Allows you to store the Sparrow helicopter in the Kosatka’s moon pool, providing a fast and convenient way to travel around the map.
* **Toreador Car Storage:** Enables you to store the Toreador car in the Kosatka’s moon pool, providing an amphibious vehicle with powerful weapons and unlimited boost.
* **Fast Travel:** Adds a fast travel option to the Kosatka, allowing you to quickly move to different locations on the map (requires a fee).
## Conclusion
The Kosatka is an essential asset for any serious GTA Online player, especially those looking to maximize their earnings through the Cayo Perico Heist. By following this comprehensive guide, you’ll be able to call your Kosatka with ease, troubleshoot common issues, and unlock its full potential. Master the Kosatka, and you’ll master GTA Online.