The podcast hosted by the creators of Cyberpunk 2077 shed light on their plans for the future of the franchise. The discussion revolved around the studio’s Boston branch spearheading the development of the sequel, internally known as “Orion.” One key takeaway from the conversation was the acknowledgment of the original game’s shortcomings, particularly in tackling certain aspects of the dystopian world. Paweł Sasko, the Associate Game Director, admitted that they didn’t push the envelope far enough, citing the homeless crisis as an example. This introspective approach suggests a commitment to addressing these issues in a more meaningful way in the upcoming sequel.
The team behind Project Orion aims to create a sequel that is more true-to-life and delves deeper into the societal issues that the first game only touched upon. The addition of the studio’s US branch is seen as a valuable asset in achieving this goal. Dan Hernberg, the Acting Executive Producer, highlighted the relevance of Cyberpunk’s themes to the contemporary world, such as the influence of megacorporations, wealth disparities, and exploitation of resources. By leveraging these themes and exploring them through poignant storytelling, the creators hope to offer players a more immersive and thought-provoking experience with Project Orion.
One of the studio’s priorities for the sequel is to avoid repeating past mistakes, such as the “manhole debacle” that occurred after the release of Cyberpunk 2077. While this incident was relatively minor, it underscores the importance of attention to detail in creating a believable game world. Sasko mentioned a Reddit post that criticized the game for using European-style manhole covers in an American setting, highlighting the need for cultural accuracy and consistency in the game’s design. By learning from these experiences, the team hopes to enhance the overall authenticity of Project Orion.
The discussion around the level of realism in blockbuster games reflects a broader debate within the industry. While some argue for a hyperrealistic approach to game design, others advocate for a more diverse range of art styles and aesthetics. The team behind Cyberpunk 2077 recognizes the importance of striking a balance between realism and fantasy to create a compelling and engaging experience for players. While the game’s setting may be a dystopian future full of fantastical elements, the underlying themes and social commentary aim to resonate with real-world issues in a meaningful way.
Addressing complex issues like homelessness within the context of a video game presents its own set of challenges. While Cyberpunk 2077 may not provide a comprehensive solution to real-world problems, the inclusion of such themes in the sequel demonstrates a commitment to exploring societal issues through the lens of interactive storytelling. By incorporating the perspectives of their North American team members, the creators hope to infuse Project Orion with cultural sensibilities that resonate with a global audience.
The development of Project Orion represents a new chapter in the Cyberpunk saga, characterized by a renewed focus on authenticity, social commentary, and immersive storytelling. By reflecting on past mistakes, embracing diverse perspectives, and striving for a harmonious blend of realism and fantasy, the team aims to create a sequel that not only entertains but also challenges players to think critically about the world around them. As Project Orion continues to take shape, it will be interesting to see how the evolution of Cyberpunk 2077 unfolds in this dynamic and ever-changing landscape of interactive entertainment.
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