The Next Revolutionary Step for CD Projekt Red After Cyberpunk 2077: Unveiling Phantom Liberty
CD Projekt Red's post-launch plans for Cyberpunk 2077 are complete with the release of Phantom Liberty Now, the acclaimed game developer sets its sights on the future, and their next move is crystal clear
Highlights
Anticipated by fans, CD Projekt Red is now turning its attention towards the upcoming installment of The Witcher series and the next captivating chapter of Cyberpunk 2077.
The studio should consider venturing into a cyberpunk rendition of Washington for the sequel of Cyberpunk 2077, as it presents a logical continuation of the narrative and delves deeper into the cyberpunk government introduced in Phantom Liberty. Although the significant change in story and setting may unsettle certain players, CD Projekt Red has established a solid foundation with Phantom Liberty and should seize the opportunity in the upcoming game, even if it entails moving away from Night City and its inhabitants.
While Cyberpunk 2077: Phantom Liberty offers an incredible experience, it also signifies the conclusion of Cyberpunk 2077's post-launch content. CD Projekt Red is now dedicating its attention to the next installment of The Witcher game and the next chapter in the Cyberpunk 2077 series. Although no details have been disclosed yet, fans are already highly enthusiastic about the direction of the upcoming title. While it will take some time before the studio unveils any information, one thing is apparent—the setting holds great clarity.
Considering the extensive effort CD Projekt Red put into constructing Night City in CP 2077, there is a high possibility that the sequel to Cyberpunk 2077 will once again be set within the confines of this city. However, it would be advisable for the studio to contemplate taking the narrative in an entirely different direction. After extensively delving into the NUSA in Phantom Liberty, it seems fitting to explore a cyberpunk interpretation of Washington. Although it may not possess the same level of excitement and uniqueness as Night City, it aligns with the natural progression of the current storyline the studio is weaving.
Cyberpunk 2077's Sequel Already Has the Perfect Setting
The focus of the main story in Cyberpunk 2077 was predominantly on Night City and its inhabitants. Players were involved in a high-stakes heist that ended in disaster, and the remainder of the game revolved around dealing with the consequences. This resulted in an entertaining and unique tale that left a lasting impression. While some may have expected a similar storyline in Phantom Liberty, CD Projekt Red chose to take a completely different approach instead.
In Cyberpunk 2077: Phantom Liberty, players find themselves in the war-torn district of Dogtown, where they must rescue the actual president of the NUSA from militant forces determined to eliminate her. This places players in the role of the chosen one, navigating encounters with various government agents and immersing themselves in a gripping spy thriller. Their mission becomes to do whatever it takes to safeguard President Myers. Although this differs greatly from the core story of Cyberpunk 2077, it is equally enjoyable, and CD Projekt Red might want to consider further expanding upon it.
With players immersing themselves in Phantom Liberty alongside the president, discussions revolving around Washington and the NUSA are plentiful. While these conversations hold relevance within the narrative, it appears that CD Projekt Red is potentially setting the stage for future cyberpunk government stories. By delving into this previously unexplored aspect of the world, Cyberpunk 2077 not only expands its own storyline but also lays the foundation for even further exploration in the forthcoming game.
Although it is highly likely that the sequel to Cyberpunk 2077 will take place in Night City or a similar bustling metropolis, this does not have to be the case. Many open-world franchises often venture into new territories with each iteration, and Cyberpunk has the capability to do the same. Specifically, the next installment could transport players to Washington, offering an in-depth look at the current state of affairs. This would enable players to further explore the intricacies of the NUSA while embarking on an exhilarating and intricate narrative teeming with conspiracy, allure, and a multitude of futuristic escapades.
After the initial game, players may feel a bit unsettled by the significant change in storyline and setting. However, Phantom Liberty has laid the groundwork and now CD Projekt Red has the opportunity to expand upon it. It would be a waste to relegate such an engaging story to mere DLC; it deserves to be the focal point of the studio's future endeavors. Even if that means leaving Night City and its characters behind, the potential alone makes it a sacrifice worth considering. Cyberpunk 2077: Phantom Liberty can be played on PC, PS5, and Xbox Series X/S.
