Searches like how to complete criminal mastermind usually come from a specific moment of being stuck, so this starts with the answer and explains the reasoning afterwards.

The approach below has been checked against the current version rather than a patch from two years ago. Most advice on this topic assumes you already know half the answer, which is exactly the problem. Give the first attempt an honest try before deciding the method does not work.

The short answer

Do the straightforward version first; it solves this for most people, and the detailed section exists for when it does not.

The straightforward version

Nothing below requires mods, paid tools or an account on some sketchy site. If you are short on time, the first section alone is usually enough. One clean run beats five rushed ones, both for results and for your patience. There is a fast way and a safe way, and they are not the same thing.

Treat the numbers as a guideline; your exact result depends on your setup and current version. Most advice on this topic assumes you already know half the answer, which is exactly the problem. The result is consistent once the inputs are, which is less obvious than it sounds.

Getting a better result

If something here stops matching what you see on screen, the game has probably changed a value in an update. Most advice on this topic assumes you already know half the answer, which is exactly the problem. People often blame the game when the actual cause is a setting they changed weeks ago.

  • Check the version you are running before following any step-by-step advice.
  • Back up your save if the game gives you the option.
  • Restart fully after a change rather than trusting a quick reload.
  • Write down what you changed, so you can undo it if the result gets worse.

Why it works

If something here stops matching what you see on screen, the game has probably changed a value in an update. The difference between a smooth run and a frustrating one usually comes down to preparation, not skill. If you are short on time, the first section alone is usually enough. Start with the simplest option before touching anything that is hard to reverse.

The approach below has been checked against the current version rather than a patch from two years ago. If something here stops matching what you see on screen, the game has probably changed a value in an update. The community figured most of this out through repetition, and the pattern has held up well.

Mistakes worth avoiding

  • Following a guide written for an older version and assuming nothing moved.
  • Changing several settings at once, then having no idea which one helped.
  • Trusting a video thumbnail over the actual patch notes.

Frequently asked questions

Is there a faster method?

Usually yes, and usually it is riskier. The route above trades a little speed for a much lower chance of having to start over.

Does this apply to every version?

The steps target the current release. Older versions usually behave the same way, though menus may sit in different places.

Does this still work after the latest update?

It did at the time of writing. If a step no longer matches, the underlying idea normally still applies even when a menu has moved.

That covers how to complete criminal mastermind — start with the short answer, and come back to the details only if something goes sideways.