The upcoming Phantom Liberty expansion is set to enhance the overall content of Cyberpunk 2077. Being the only major expansion planned for the game, it has garnered significant attention and expectation in terms of quality.
With Cyberpunk 2077 having significantly improved since its initial launch, it is evident why there is already a sense of optimism surrounding the Phantom Liberty DLC. However, it is important to acknowledge that the DLC comes with potential drawbacks, regardless of how it is perceived.
Cyberpunk 2077 and the Risks of a Lackluster Phantom Liberty
Phantom Liberty faces a significant challenge in overcoming the immense pressure and expectations placed upon it. This is primarily due to the notorious launch of Cyberpunk 2077, widely regarded as one of the most damaging releases in gaming history.
The release of 2077 was marred by numerous bugs and issues, ranging from performance and graphics to core gameplay. Compounded by several delays leading up to its launch, the fan outcry over its state of release created a seismic impact in the gaming community. However, CD Projekt Red has made commendable efforts to stabilize the Cyberpunk franchise in the years since, implementing a plethora of updates that have substantially improved the game's overall state.
The Bittersweet Nature of a Successful Phantom Liberty
: The potential repercussions of this launch on Phantom Liberty are significant, as fans may view the DLC as the redemption for Cyberpunk's troubled 2020 launch. The immense expectations surrounding Phantom Liberty's release make it crucial for CD Projekt Red to avoid any major mishaps, as a controversial launch could have lasting detrimental effects on the game's reputation. While it is expected that a poorly received launch would be a setback, even if Phantom Liberty is a resounding success, Cyberpunk 2077 still faces the possibility of other negative outcomes.The anticipated release of Phantom Liberty is not only fueled by the promising DLC it has in store, but also by the captivating content it promises, featuring a captivating storyline that introduces intriguing new factions and characters. For instance, the addition of Idris Elb's character, Solomon Reed, as a pivotal government liaison, along with the triumphant return of Keanu Reeves' iconic Johnny Silverhand, significantly enriches the expansion's narrative.
The content fragment presents Phantom Liberty as an exciting Cyberpunk experience that can be enhanced by the game's smooth current nature. However, if it doesn't meet fan expectations, there may be a mix of emotions. Since Phantom Liberty is the only major expansion for Cyberpunk 2077, it provides only a glimpse of the game's true potential. Fans who didn't have the opportunity to experience the polished version of the game initially may feel a sense of longing and sadness when playing Phantom Liberty. As there are no future expansions planned, they would have to wait for a potential sequel to explore more of the Cyberpunk 2077 universe.
Although it would be more desirable for Phantom Liberty to avoid being poorly received, it remains a drawback of the DLC that may still be noticeable even in the best-case scenario. Despite the potential advantages of a refined Phantom Liberty outweighing any longing for what Cyberpunk 2077 could have been, it is evident that the DLC presents both benefits and drawbacks for CD Projekt Red. Scheduled for release on September 26, 2023, Cyberpunk 2077: Phantom Liberty will be available on PC, PS5, and Xbox Series X/S.