Highlights
CD Projekt Red explains that technology limitations are the reason why Cyberpunk 2077 will not receive a second DLC.
After a tumultuous start, CD Projekt Red's dedicated endeavors to rectify glitches and enhance performance have elevated Cyberpunk 2077 to a pinnacle among cyberpunk games.
Taking a significant stride forward, CD Projekt Red has made the strategic choice to part ways with their in-house REDengine and embrace Unreal Engine 5 for all forthcoming ventures, encompassing a sequel to Cyberpunk 2077 and The Witcher 4.
CD Projekt Red has cited technological limitations as the reason for not releasing a second DLC for Cyberpunk 2077. Despite its troubled launch, the game has garnered a strong following and fans are eagerly anticipating additional content.
Cyberpunk 2077 initially faced significant challenges upon its release, but CD Projekt Red's dedication to addressing bugs and enhancing performance has greatly improved the game. The upcoming Phantom Liberty DLC is expected to further enhance the title, introducing new story elements and implementing various improvements. These include reworking the mechanics of cybernetic implants, making substantial adjustments to the skill trees, and rectifying gameplay imbalances.
Now, CDPR has revealed the rationale behind declaring Cyberpunk 2077: Phantom Liberty as the final expansion for the game. This information was disclosed during a recent Q&A session with investors, where the company was specifically questioned about the sales target needed to warrant a second expansion. CDPR's spokesperson, Michał Nowakowski, clarified that the decision to conclude with the current expansion was made well in advance, primarily due to technological considerations. As a result, the team has opted to abandon their proprietary REDengine in favor of utilizing Unreal Engine 5 for all their upcoming projects.
Currently, CD Projekt Red (CDPR) is in the process of developing multiple games, both internally and with external studios. These projects include a sequel to Cyberpunk 2077 and a game referred to as The Witcher 4. In 2022, CDPR announced that Unreal Engine 5 would be utilized for The Witcher 4, as it facilitates the creation of open-world games more effectively than the original REDengine that was used for previous titles such as The Witcher 2.
Another recent development at CD Projekt Red involves a round of layoffs. In July, the company let go of approximately 100 employees, which accounted for around 9% of their total workforce. CDPR stated that all affected employees were provided with comprehensive severance packages, and the layoffs were part of a larger restructuring effort. The intention behind these changes was to minimize crunch and delays within the studio. It is worth noting that other companies, including BioWare, Take-Two Interactive, and 343 Industries, have also implemented similar layoffs this year. However, it remains uncertain as to whether these circumstances will impact the development of future games.
Cyberpunk 2077 is available now for PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X/S. The Phantom Liberty DLC will be out by September 26, but only for PC, PS5, and Xbox Series X/S.
Source: VGC