Cyberpunk 2077, the highly anticipated sci-fi RPG from CD Projekt Red, has finally received a major update that fixes many of the issues that plagued its launch in 2020. Update 2.0, which is available for free to all players on PC, PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S, brings an overhaul to a number of gameplay mechanics and core game features, such as the police system, the perk trees, the cyberware system and more. Along with the update, the game also gets its first and only DLC, Phantom Liberty, which adds a new story arc, new characters, new locations and new gameplay options.
The update and the DLC are meant to deliver the game that Cyberpunk 2077 should’ve always been, according to CD Projekt Red. The developers have been working hard to improve the game’s performance, stability and quality since its troubled release, which was marred by bugs, glitches and technical issues. The game was also criticized for its lack of content, depth and immersion, as well as its controversial depiction of some themes and groups.
With Update 2.0 and Phantom Liberty, CD Projekt Red hopes to redeem itself and win back the trust of the fans and the critics. The update and the DLC are the result of months of feedback, testing and polishing, and they aim to provide a more satisfying and enjoyable experience for all players.
Update 2.0 introduces a new police system, vehicle combat and more
One of the most noticeable changes that Update 2.0 brings is the new police system, which makes the NCPD more present and active in the world of Night City. The NCPD will now chase players when they commit a crime, whether on foot or in a vehicle. The types of units in pursuit and their behavior will depend on the player’s NCPD Wanted Level, which can range from one to five stars. Higher levels will trigger more aggressive responses from the police, such as roadblocks, helicopters and MaxTac units.
The update also adds the option to engage in combat while driving a vehicle, from either first-person or third-person perspective. Players can use pistols, submachine guns and health items while driving, as well as melee combat on motorcycles. Some vehicles also come equipped with mounted weapons that can be used against enemies or the police. Vehicle tires can now be shot or slashed, affecting their handling and speed.
Another major change that Update 2.0 brings is the overhaul of the skill tree and the cyberware system. Players can now refund all their attribute points once for free, and reshuffle their skill points at any time without cost. The skill tree has been redesigned to offer more variety and flexibility in building different character types and playstyles. The cyberware system has also been revamped to include more options and effects for each cyberware slot. There are also new cyberware items that can be found or bought throughout the game.
Phantom Liberty adds a new story arc with Johnny Silverhand
Phantom Liberty is the first and only DLC for Cyberpunk 2077, which adds a new story arc that revolves around Johnny Silverhand, the legendary rockerboy played by Keanu Reeves. The DLC takes place after the main story of the game, and it explores Johnny’s past, present and future in a series of missions that span different locations and timelines.
The DLC introduces new characters that are connected to Johnny’s life, such as his former bandmates from Samurai, his ex-girlfriend Alt Cunningham, his rival Adam Smasher and his mysterious benefactor Mr. Blue Eyes. The DLC also features new locations that are related to Johnny’s history, such as his childhood home in Heywood, his old studio in Westbrook, his secret bunker in Santo Domingo and his final resting place in Pacifica.
The DLC also offers new gameplay options that allow players to interact with Johnny in different ways. Players can choose to help Johnny achieve his goals, oppose him or try to find a middle ground. Depending on their choices, players can unlock different endings for Johnny’s story arc, as well as different rewards and consequences for their own character.
Phantom Liberty is available for owners of Cyberpunk 2077 on PC and current-gen consoles for $19.99 USD. Players can start the DLC from an existing save file after meeting certain requirements in the main story, or they can start a new game with a new character that is already adequately leveled up.
