AsCyberpunk 2077enters its fifth year, the promise of its in-development sequel, codenamedProject Orion, becomes even more exciting. With the follow-up being in its early stages, there’s no telling what the nextCyberpunk 2077chapter has in store, but speculation as to which direction the story takes is compelling.
Since the first game features a variety of outcomes, it’s unclear if CD Projekt Red will pick a canon ending for V or start over with a blank slate that stars a fresh cast of characters. Regardless, there are plenty of fascinating possibilities on the horizon, and many are eager to find outhow a successor improves uponCyberpunk 2077’s formula. There are several ways that CD Projekt Red could elevate the experience of the next game, but when it comes to difficulty levels, one of the endings in thePhantom LibertyDLC holds the key to a satisfying hardcore mode.
The Tower Ending in Phantom Liberty Could Be the Perfect Hardcore Approach
InPhantom Liberty,The Tower ending is a divisive outcome for V. On the one hand, V gets to live, but on the other hand, all cyberware is taken away, rendering the game’s protagonist an average person, unable to wear cyber enhancements ever again. While some see this as a happy ending, others see it as a sad twist of fate. However, not allowing players to use cyberware for characters could be the perfect way to approach a hardcore mode inProject Orion.
Project Orionwas officially confirmed in 2022, but CD Projekt Red didn’t begin active development until early 2024.
Zero Enhancements is the Ultimate Cyberpunk Challenge
Imagining going through the story ofCyberpunk 2077without any type of enhancement is hard to fathom and seems nearly impossible, but that’s also what makes the prospect of such a playthrough so fun. It would be an absolutely grueling way to survive Night City, or whereverProject Orionis set.IfProject Orionhas its own version of Adam Smasher, then going head-to-head with a mad cyborg, or an equivalent, is a tall order that could be a heart-pounding way for the most daring of players to try and experience the game. Even everyday run-of-the-mill Night City gangsters would feel like a nightmare.
Depending on how one chooses to play,Cyberpunk 2077can be challenging even with cyberware, but offering the option to go completely bare would be a major game-changer that a lot of hardcore fans would likely appreciate.Project Orionwill hopefully one-up its predecessor, and offering even more dynamic gameplay options could be a smaller way to improve upon concepts that make a world of difference.
DespiteCyberpunk 2077’s controversial launch, the game’s post-launch updates have transformed it into an impressive RPG.
Elevating the Horrors and Extremes of Cyberpunk 2077’s World
Not only would this type of hardcore mode offer players an intense challenge, it could further illustrate the horrifying power that some individuals have over others in this type of society.A central theme inCyberpunk 2077is power. Whether that be physical, social, or financial power, cyberware plays a big role in that, and trying to survive this harsh world without those things can perfectly demonstrate why the race to the top is so important for so many Night City citizens.
Waiting For Project Orion May Require Patience
The confirmation of aCyberpunk 2077sequel is exciting news, but it is unfortunately still likely years away.The Witcher 4is next on CD Projekt Red’s to-do list, and while its first cinematic reveal at the 2024 Game Awards was thrilling, it’s unclear how far along its production is. Although a long wait can be a bummer, it at least helps ensure thatProject Orionpotentially sidesteps its predecessor’s launch woes. Only time will tell whatProject Orionhas to offer, butPhantom Liberty’s The Tower ending could inspire a truly intense experience.
