The final confrontation with Big Smoke takes place in his heavily fortified crack palace. This mission, 'End of the Line', is a multi-stage assault that tests all of CJ's accumulated skills.
Phase 1: Storming the Palace
You'll be accompanied by Sweet. Drive to the palace and breach the defenses. Expect heavy resistance from Ballas and Vagos. Use your M4 or AK-47 to clear the initial waves. Stay close to Sweet, as he provides cover fire. Utilize cover effectively and pick off enemies systematically. A Combat Shotgun is excellent for close-quarters inside the building.
Phase 2: The Drug Lab
Inside, you'll navigate through several floors, encountering more enemies, including those with body armor. Use grenades or the Minigun to clear rooms quickly. Watch out for enemies hiding behind corners. Keep an eye on your health and armor, picking up any drops. The Minigun is highly effective here if you have it.
Phase 3: Big Smoke's Office
Finally, you'll reach Big Smoke. He's heavily armored and uses a powerful weapon. Stay mobile, use the pillars and furniture for cover. Aim for headshots to bypass his armor. He'll occasionally throw grenades, so be ready to move. After dealing enough damage, a cutscene will trigger, concluding the fight with Smoke.
Phase 4: Escape and Tenpenny Chase
After Smoke, Officer Tenpenny sets the palace on fire. You have a limited time to escape. Follow Sweet, shooting any remaining enemies. Once outside, Tenpenny will flee in a Fire Truck. This initiates a lengthy chase. You'll need to drive while Sweet shoots. Keep the Fire Truck in range for Sweet, but also be mindful of the pursuing police and Tenpenny's attempts to ram you. Eventually, Tenpenny will crash, leading to the final cutscene. A high Driving Skill is crucial for this chase. Rewards: Completion of the main storyline, significant respect increase.