Cyberpunk 2077 has cemented its place as a major player in the RPG world, inviting gamers to delve into the gritty and tech-laden world of Night City. As anticipation grows for its sequel, known as Project Orion, excitement is brewing among fans eager to discover what CD Projekt Red has in store. Alongside Project Orion, the developer is also working on the much-anticipated Witcher 4, leaving many fans both thrilled and curious about what’s to come.
Talk surrounding the sequel mainly focuses on how it might differ from the original. Despite its rocky start, the first game managed to win back many players, setting high expectations that CD Projekt Red aims to meet. This time, the developers are more aware of the requisite time to deliver a polished sequel and are considering expanding its scope. Increasing romance options is one possibility, though, this might not necessarily be beneficial.
In Cyberpunk 2077, players can pursue romantic relationships with four main NPCs: Judy Alvarez, Panam Palmer, River Ward, and Kerry Eurodyne. Although at first glance the options seem rather limited, these relationships are thoughtfully crafted, offering players deep and engaging character interactions. Introducing more romance options in Project Orion could risk shallower character development, potentially weakening the connections players form with the characters. While discussions about enhancing in-game romances may be ongoing, there’s an argument for quality over quantity that should not be overlooked.
One way to enrich the romantic experience without compromising character depth is to make existing romance paths more inclusive. Currently, Judy and River are only romantically available to a female V, while Panam and Kerry are exclusive to a male V. Such restrictions can limit the role-playing aspect, particularly for players who favor role identities different from their character’s romantic options.
When players complete Judy, River, Panam, or Kerry’s side quests, they gain access to their apartments, adding another layer of engagement within the game world.
As for Project Orion itself, its direction remains under wraps until CD Projekt Red decides to share more. Sequels typically aim to elevate the original, and for Project Orion, building on Cyberpunk 2077’s standout features could prove to be the best strategy. Enhancing what’s already great rather than spreading too thin might ensure a more satisfying sequel.
For now, gamers will have to wait patiently for more news on Project Orion. With Witcher 4 next in the lineup, it could be a while before we see Cyberpunk 2077’s next installment. However, the hope is that the wait will indeed be worthwhile.
