Does gta online require a separate save file from story mode?

Grand Theft Auto Online is the online multiplayer component of Grand Theft Auto V, developed by Rockstar North and released in 2013 for initial platforms with later releases through 2022. The game operates as a distinct mode from the single-player story mode, with its own progression system. Players create a customizable character that exists separately from the three protagonists of the main story mode (Michael, Franklin, and Trevor). When you start GTA Online, you begin with a new character creation process and your online progress, including money, properties, vehicles, and missions, is saved independently from your story mode save file. This separation allows players to have multiple saves for story mode while maintaining a single online character progression that is tied to their Rockstar Social Club account rather than local save files.