Not much is known aboutProject Orion,Cyberpunk 2077’s code-named sequel—in fact, virtually nothing is known about the much-anticipated follow-up, which likely won’t be here for another several years. This is probably for the best, considering the drawn-out nature ofCyberpunk 2077’s promotional period, and the overwrought hype that it facilitated. Still, it’s easy for the mind to run rampant with speculation aboutProject Orion, which is representative of the sequel’s massive potential.
Indeed, whileCyberpunk 2077isn’t perfecteven after myriad patches, it did turn out to be quite a special game. Its combat, build-crafting, and RPG elements are best in class, and its narrative, worldbuilding, and atmosphere make it feel truly unique, especially in a genre dominated by medieval fantasy stories. At the same time, it’s been argued thatCyberpunk 2077doesn’t take full advantage of its titular subgenre, often feeling a bit too much like a sci-fi action movie than a cerebral, thought-provoking story about transhumanism and the horrors of technology. Luckily, the seeds for such a sophisticated narrative are there, so it’s just a matter of CD Projekt Red watering them ahead ofProject Orion’s release.
Cyberpunk 2077’s Sequel Ought To Further Explore the Net
The Net Is One of Cyberpunk 2077’s Most Promising Underexplored Concepts
The Net is quite similar to the modern internet, but with a few major distinctions. Chief among them is its advancedMatrix-like rendering power, leveraged by savvy netrunners for optimal performance in all manner of defensive, offensive, or otherwise shady online tactics. Netrunners can directly manifest an avatar within the Net, moving around 3D environments in much the same way as they would in the real world.Cyberpunk 2077shows this side of the Neta few times, but these sections are brief, on-rails, and don’t realize the concept’s full potential.
According toCyberpunklore, the Net can be rendered in far more realistic detail than what’s seen inCyberpunk 2077. With enough processing power, this virtual world can be nearly indistinguishable from realspace, which could lead to any number of fascinating, alluring, or terrifying narrative scenarios. There’s also the Blackwall, a nearly impenetrable barrier that keeps nigh-omnipotent rogue AI from wiping out human civilization. It goes without saying that both of these lore elements, and everything that they suggest, could be fertile ground for unique storytelling and gameplay opportunities inProject Orion.
Cyberpunk 2077’s depiction of the Netis inspired by similar concepts in other cyberpunk stories, such as William Gibson’sNeuromancer.
What Role Could the Net Play in Project Orion?
The sprawling potential of the Net might also have complicated its inclusion inCyberpunk: it’s a vast and incorporeal landscape, with limits dictated by nothing more than processing power, which makes it hard to present visually. This is a big reason why the most compelling depictions of cyberspace have been in literature, rather than visual media, which is burdened by expectations of objectivity. But the Net could still beprominently featured inProject Orionif CD Projekt Red were willing to use a soft touch.
MaybeCyberpunk 2077’s sequel could better illustrate the multifaceted nature of the Net through more varied setpieces. For instance, a photorealistic Net creation could be used forArkham-style nightmare sequences, wherein the player-character is tormented by an antagonistic Netrunner who has crafted a twisted virtual reality. Other manifestations of the Net could be used for novel gameplay scenarios, such as platforming or reaction-based challenges, which could yield significant rewards. MaybeProject Orioncould even use the Net to fulfill the fantasy of so many Netrunner role-players, allowing them to wreak devastation upon great numbers of enemies without ever leaving a single spot.
Cyberpunk 2077
WHERE TO PLAY
Cyberpunk 2077 is an open-world action-adventure from the creators of The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt, CD Projekt Red.Set in Night City, a megalopolis obsessed with power, glamour and body modification, you play as V, a mercenary outlaw going after a one-of-a-kind implant that is the key to immortality.Upgraded with next-gen in mind and featuring free additional content, customize your character and playstyle as you take on jobs, build a reputation, and unlock upgrades.The relationships you forge and the choices you make will shape the story and the world around you. Legends are made here. What will yours be?
