The developers behind Cyberpunk 2077 recently discussed the potential shortcomings of the game in a podcast episode. They touched on the fact that they may not have pushed the envelope far enough in certain areas, such as the depiction of the homeless crisis within the game. These reflections by the Associate Game Director at CD Project RED, Paweł Sasko, showcase a level of self-awareness and a desire for improvement in future installments.
The upcoming sequel to Cyberpunk 2077, internally known as “Orion,” holds a promising future for the game franchise. With the lead writer of Control at its narrative helm, there is anticipation for a deeper exploration of relevant themes and issues that the first game only grazed the surface of. The creators hope that having a studio in the US will enable them to create a more true-to-life experience that engages with societal problems in a more meaningful way.
One of the goals for the development team is to create a lifelike world for the sequel, avoiding immersion-breaking details that may detract from the player experience. By referencing a past “manhole debacle” where a minor bug regarding manhole covers caused some controversy, the developers highlight the importance of attention to detail in creating an immersive environment for players. The focus on realism versus artistic interpretation is a debate that continues to shape the gaming industry.
While Cyberpunk 2077 is set in a dystopian future full of futuristic technology and societal complexities, it still holds a mirror to real-world issues. The Acting Executive Producer on the sequel, Dan Hernberg, emphasizes the relevance of exploring themes such as megacorporations, exploitation, and the wealth gap in a poignant manner. The intention behind project Orion is to continue delving into these societal issues while maintaining a focus on relationships and human stories within a broken world.
The presence of a North American studio for the development of the Cyberpunk 2077 sequel allows for the integration of cultural insights and sensibilities into the game’s world-building. Leveraging the diverse perspectives of the studio’s employees, especially in the US, can enhance the authenticity and relatability of the game’s narrative and setting. By tapping into a wider range of experiences, the developers aim to create a more immersive and engaging experience for players.
The future of the Cyberpunk franchise holds promise for a more deeply engaging and socially relevant experience. With a focus on addressing past shortcomings, embracing cultural diversity, and creating a lifelike world, the developers are poised to deliver a sequel that builds upon the foundation laid by Cyberpunk 2077. As they continue to explore themes of exploitation, inequality, and human resilience within a futuristic dystopia, players can expect a thought-provoking and immersive gaming experience in the world of Cyberpunk.
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