In Cyberpunk 2077, players assume the role of V and confront formidable organizations throughout Night City. Despite the omnipresence of the Night City Police Department, they are one of the game's weakest factions. Similar to the police in Grand Theft Auto, they only intervene when the player breaks the law or goes on a killing spree. Consequently, the NCPD rarely takes center stage as other, more dominant groups and gangs assume the role of primary antagonists. However, with the release of the Phantom Liberty DLC, the NCPD has the opportunity to play a more significant role in the game's narrative by becoming an antagonist force.
The Known Story of Cyberpunk 2077 Phantom Liberty
The upcoming DLC for Cyberpunk 2077, titled Phantom Liberty, has left fans eagerly anticipating its release due to its mysterious plot. The second trailer offers some insight into the story, revealing that it centers around Dog Town, a previously inaccessible section of Night City's map, as well as the New United States of America (NUSA) organization known as the FIA. It seems that V's mission for the NUSA goes awry, forcing the characters to fight their way out of the city's dangerous district.
However, the main antagonist of the DLC remains unknown. The trailers suggest that V will face challenges from local gangs and militias, as well as from Solomon Reed, played by Idris Elba, who may not be trustworthy and could potentially become a final antagonist. Another potential antagonist that the game has yet to explore is the Night City Police Department, offering a wild card option for the story.
How the Night City Police Department Can Be Used In Cyberpunk 2077 Phantom Liberty
Phantom Liberty has the potential to add a new layer of conflict to Cyberpunk 2077 by introducing the Night City Police Department as a true adversary. Currently, the NCPD is mostly peripheral to the main storyline, only featuring in some of the game's best side quests. However, with the addition of the FIA's presence in the city, it's likely that the NCPD will become an obstacle for V and their allies. It's unclear whether the local government is aware of the FIA's presence, but even if they are, they may not be supportive. As such, the NCPD could be a significant challenge for players to overcome in their quest for freedom in Night City.
The obstacle that players may face in the DLC can manifest in various ways, such as a scripted shootout with law enforcement or encountering resistance from a local captain who questions their jurisdiction. It is also possible that the laws in this part of the city are aligned with the gangs and militia groups that control it. While the extent of the Night City Police Department's involvement in the DLC remains uncertain, rumors suggest a release window for Cyberpunk 2077: Phantom Liberty. Regardless of the release date, the DLC offers a chance to elevate the NCPD's role within the game's narrative.
Cyberpunk 2077 is available on PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X/S.