Few updates have changed how a game plays and will likely be received quite like the overhaul headed for Cyberpunk 2077 as part of its 2.0 update.
Scheduled for September 26, the Phantom Liberty expansion doesn’t just promise a fresh storyline starring the ever-so-dashing Idris Elba, who, by the way, insists that he’s not starring as James Bond, as Solomon Reed. More than that, it pledges a holistic reinvention of the gaming experience. The gameplay footage showcased at this year’s Gamescom Opening Live, New Ways to Play, could’ve easily been retitled and called, The Game You Were Promised.
When Cyberpunk 2077 first launched in 2020, it filled gamers worldwide with anticipation and dreams of a technicolor playground in the future’s gritty neon glow. But the reality failed to match the dream painted in the trailers. Now, it seems, CD Projekt Red seeks redemption with the release of Phantom Liberty and the 2.0 update.
Players are introduced to redesigned skill trees that appear to address a previously a somewhat half-baked approach to RPG mechanics. Forget the underwhelming minor percentage improvements; the update now takes a much deeper dive into dynamic character builds that range from hacking and stealth tactics to full-throttle combat. The trailer wasn’t just a boring slideshow of new additions – it dazzled with protagonist V leaping from a motorcycle, sending shockwaves that resembled a fusion of sci-fi Dishonored and the visceral Mortal Kombat.
To put it simply, CD Projekt RED showed how the 2.0 update will change everyone’s perception of Cyberpunk 2077.
Beyond the skills and flashy combat perks, Phantom Liberty promises vehicular mayhem that seems taken straight from a futuristic Grand Theft Auto. With revamped vehicle combat mechanics, V isn’t just confined to the driver’s seat. They can hack vehicles and engage in high-octane shootouts, taking part in road skirmishes that are about to become an integral part of the Night City experience.
Remember the previous “wanted” system? Now, brace yourself for intense chases, as the NCPD ramps up the heat with the formidable MaxTac Psycho Squad on your tail. As Yuliia Pryimak, CD Projekt Red’s gameplay designer, announced at Gamescom, the company’s commitment to evolving the base game is unequivocal. While it remains uncertain what will remain exclusive to Phantom Liberty, the distinction between DLC and the core 2.0 update seems almost immaterial when you consider the scope of transformation in store.
Most notable of all is that among the sea of revamped features and mechanics lies a nugget of information that hints at “endless dynamic events and missions.” One can’t help but wonder: Does this imply a perpetually playable Night City? It’s a tall order for sure, but after what CDPR did to Cyberpunk 2077 last year, it more than deserves the benefit of the doubt.
It’s clear that the 2.0 update is what Cyberpunk 2077 should’ve been by launch. Still, credit where credit’s due. CDPR didn’t abandon Night City or its citizen. The studio persevered, crafting what appears to be a redemption arc worthy of any great cyberpunk saga.
What’s particularly illuminating is the perspective shift. The very tone of discourse now surrounding Cyberpunk 2077 is of eager anticipation from disillusionment. If the 2.0 update is as great as it looks, CDPR will have just made believers of most of all the naysayers while renewing faith in its ability to deliver with Project Orion on the horizon. Still, give credit where credit’s due. CDPR didn’t abandon Night City or its citizen. The studio persevered, crafting what appears to be a redemption arc worthy of any great cyberpunk saga.
With that said, this September, player won’t just revisit Night City, they’ll witness its rebirth.
