Cyberpunk 2077has undergone one of the most significant turnarounds in gaming history. From its disastrous 2020 launch to its current status as a fully realized RPG, CD Projekt Red has spent years refining the experience. ThePhantom Libertyexpansion further cemented the game’s redemption arc, offering an excellent spy thriller with deep political intrigue, immersive gameplay enhancements, and a stunningly realized Night City. However, with CD Projekt Red confirming thatPhantom Libertyis the only major expansion for the game, it’s hard not to feel thatCyberpunk 2077deserves more.
While development efforts are now shifting toProject Orion, the sequel toCyberpunk 2077, the success ofPhantom Libertyraises questions about the longevity of the next game. CD Projekt Red has already proven withThe Witcher 3: Wild Huntthat astrong post-launch support system, complete with both paid and free DLC, can keep a game alive for years. IfProject Orionis to succeed in building uponCyberpunk 2077’slegacy, its DLC strategy should be a priority from the start.
Phantom Liberty Shows How Expansion Content Can Elevate a Game
WhileCyberpunk 2077’s base game offered a strong foundation,Phantom Libertyelevated the experience significantly. The DLC introduced Dogtown, a dangerous new district filled with tense moments and espionage. Its accompanying update also refined core gameplay elements, with vehicle combat, enhanced cyberware customization, and smarter enemy AI making the game feel more dynamic.
A similar approach could benefitProject Orion. Rather than launching with a single planned expansion, CD Projekt Red could develop multiple major DLCs over time, much likeThe Witcher 3did withHearts of StoneandBlood and Wine. Both of those expansions added new mechanics, deep storytelling, and entire regions to explore, keeping the game relevant long after release. IfCyberpunk 2077had received more DLCs ofPhantom Liberty’s quality, Night City’s potential could have been explored even further.
Cyberpunk Orion’s Longevity Should Not Rely on a Rocky Launch
One of the reasonsCyberpunk 2077remained in the spotlightfor so long was its troubled launch. Its reputation as one of the most botched releases in gaming history forced CD Projekt Red to continually update and improve the game, ultimately turning it into what it was always meant to be. However,Project Orionshould not require a redemption arc to maintain a long lifespan. Instead, it should adopt a well-planned roadmap that keeps players engaged with meaningful expansions rather than post-launch fixes.
If handled correctly, multiple expansions could sustain interest without relying on controversy. The cyberpunk genre is rich with untapped storytelling potential, from AI ethics to deep-space cybernetics. Instead of concluding support after one expansion, CD Projekt Red could implement a staggered DLC approach that explores these themes over time, ensuringProject Orionremains relevant for years.
Free Content in Orion Can Keep the World Alive
CD Projekt Red has a solid track record of avoiding predatory monetization practices. Unlike many studios that lock content behind excessive paywalls, the developer has historically balanced premium expansions with free updates.Cyberpunk 2077benefited from free DLCsthat improved immersion, such as the addition of a fully functional metro system, further grounding players in Night City’s atmosphere.
ForProject Orion, a steady stream of free content alongside paid expansions could ensure a vibrant and evolving world. New cyberware options, expanded character customization, and immersive city life enhancements could keep players engaged between major DLC releases. By striking the right balance, CD Projekt Red could deliver a post-launch experience that feels rewarding rather than exploitative.
WhileCyberpunk 2077’s time in the spotlight is winding down,Phantom Libertyproves that the game still has untapped potential. If CD Projekt Red applies the lessons learned fromCyberpunk 2077andThe Witcher 3,Project Orioncould sustain player interest for years with a well-executed DLC roadmap.
