What is Cyberpunk 2077? A Comprehensive Guide to the Game and Its World

In the realm of video games, few titles have generated as much hype, controversy, and eventual redemption as Cyberpunk 2077. If you're wondering what is Cyberpunk 2077, it's an open-world action RPG developed by CD Projekt RED, set in a dystopian future filled with high-tech gadgets, corporate intrigue, and moral dilemmas. Released in December 2020, the game invites players to explore Night City as a customizable mercenary named V. In this ultimate guide, we'll break down everything from its origins to gameplay, story, and lasting impact. Whether you're a newcomer or a seasoned gamer, this Cyberpunk 2077 explained article has you covered.

By the end, you'll see why this game remains a landmark in the RPG genre despite its turbulent launch. Let's plug in and dive deep!

The Basics: Defining What Cyberpunk 2077 Is

At its core, what is Cyberpunk 2077? It's a single-player RPG (role-playing game) that blends first-person shooting, driving, hacking, and narrative-driven choices in a sprawling, futuristic metropolis. Published by CD Projekt (known for The Witcher series), it's based on Mike Pondsmith's Cyberpunk tabletop RPG from the 1980s.

Key elements include:

Perspective and Style: First-person view for immersion, with options for third-person in vehicles.

Customization: Create your character V with choices in background, appearance, skills, and cybernetic enhancements (like enhanced limbs or neural implants).

Platforms: Available on PC, PlayStation 4/5, Xbox One/Series X/S, and even Google Stadia (though discontinued). The next-gen update in 2022 enhanced graphics and performance.

With over 20 million copies sold as of 2023, per CD Projekt reports, it's a testament to the enduring appeal of cyberpunk themes like technology's dark side and human augmentation.

A Brief History and Development of Cyberpunk 2077

To fully grasp what Cyberpunk 2077 represents, let's trace its roots. The game draws from the cyberpunk genre popularized in the 1980s by authors like William Gibson (Neuromancer) and films like Blade Runner.

Origins (1980s-2012): Inspired by the Cyberpunk 2020 tabletop game, CD Projekt announced the project in 2012 after success with The Witcher 3.

Development Challenges (2013-2020): Teased with cinematic trailers featuring Keanu Reeves as Johnny Silverhand, the game faced delays due to its ambitious scope. It was built on the REDengine 4.

Launch and Aftermath (2020-Present): Released amid massive anticipation, it suffered from bugs, especially on consoles, leading to refunds and removal from the PlayStation Store. However, patches like Update 1.5 and the 2023 Phantom Liberty expansion have turned it around, earning praise for its polished state.

This history highlights the risks of hype in gaming, but also CD Projekt's commitment to redemption.

Key Features and Gameplay in Cyberpunk 2077

What makes Cyberpunk 2077 stand out? Its deep mechanics and freedom. Here's a breakdown of Cyberpunk 2077 gameplay:

Open-World Exploration: Night City is a massive, vertical playground divided into districts like the opulent Corpo Plaza and gritty Watson. Drive cars, motorcycles, or even fly with certain upgrades.

Combat and Skills: Mix gunplay, melee weapons, hacking (quickhacks to disable enemies), and stealth. Build your V as a netrunner (hacker), solo (fighter), or techie (gadget expert).

Branching Narratives: Choices matter—side with gangs, corporations, or rebels, leading to multiple endings. Romances and relationships add depth.

Cyberware and Progression: Upgrade your body with implants for superhuman abilities, like double jumps or slow-motion aiming.

Side Activities: Gigs (missions), street races, braindances (reliving memories), and collectibles keep the world alive.

The game clocks in at 20-30 hours for the main story, but completionists can spend 100+ hours. For tips, check community guides on optimizing builds.

The Story and Setting: Immersing in Night City

What is Cyberpunk 2077 without its gripping narrative? You play as V, a mercenary seeking an immortality chip after a heist gone wrong. The story explores themes of identity, corporate greed, and transhumanism, with Keanu Reeves' Johnny Silverhand as a digital ghost in your head.

Setting: Night City, California, in 2077—a neon-lit hellscape ruled by megacorporations like Arasaka and Militech. It's a blend of glamour and decay, with diverse cultures and cybernetic subcultures.

Main Quest: Involves alliances, betrayals, and high-stakes jobs, with player choices altering outcomes.

Expansions: The Phantom Liberty DLC (2023) adds a new district, story arc with Idris Elba, and overhauled police and vehicle systems, expanding the base game significantly.

The writing is mature, tackling adult themes like addiction and inequality, making it more than just a shooter.

Reception, Impact, and Controversies

Upon release, Cyberpunk 2077 faced backlash for performance issues, scoring around 86/100 on PC but lower on consoles via Metacritic. It was criticized for bugs, misleading marketing, and crunch culture during development. However, updates have boosted its Steam rating to "Very Positive," with players lauding the immersive world and story.

Culturally, it popularized cyberpunk aesthetics in gaming, influencing titles like Starfield. It's also sparked discussions on game development ethics and consumer expectations.

Future of Cyberpunk 2077 and the Franchise

What's next for Cyberpunk 2077? CD Projekt has confirmed no more major updates after Phantom Liberty, but a sequel (codenamed Orion) is in development, promising multiplayer elements and Unreal Engine 5. Fans can expect more from the universe, including comics and an anime series (Cyberpunk: Edgerunners on Netflix).

Conclusion: Why Cyberpunk 2077 Deserves a Second Look

So, what is Cyberpunk 2077? It's a flawed masterpiece that's evolved into one of the most immersive RPGs available, offering a rich world of choice, action, and storytelling. If you skipped it due to launch woes, now's the time to experience Night City in its best form.

Ready to become a cyberpunk legend? Pick it up and share your thoughts in the comments. Subscribe for more gaming insights and reviews!