LagoScott Wrote:would i be making more if i were to join a gang? or would i have to sacrifice most of my earnings to the gang, thus reducing my overall gains?
Depends on the gang.
Members of gangs that war constantly for gang points sacrifice a ton of action points (hideout attacks require action points) -- let alone any monetary donation that might be required... Crime earnings, in a war gang, are all but completely vaporized. (Some gangs make up for this by passing needy members their hand-me-down weapons / armor, offering "protection", etc.) If you're looking to maximize your individual crime earnings, and can't donate to the game to supplement your income from crimes, I would not suggest joining a gang that wars heavily.
However, there are a few gangs out there that don't war much, either because they don't have the means to donate, or they simply don't see the benefits of gang points.
Ask around, talk to people, see where you fit in... but joining a gang is definitely not required to succeed in this game.