One of the most persistent frustrations with Cyberpunk 2077 is its shallow cosmetic customization for V. Despite the game’s rich visual design and world-building, players quickly noticed that NPCs often sport far more creative and varied outfits than what V has access to. However, in a city that prides itself on self-expression and anarchic style, the limited wardrobe selection for players feels like a missed opportunity.
While the initial premise of Cyberpunk 2077 aimed for immersion and realism and delivered it as far as the storyline and choice-based gameplay are concerned, it unintentionally constrained the player's ability to visually display the rebellious spirit the game promotes. The sequel has a chance to address this gap, especially with the original game offering so little, and there are some clear paths that can be taken with new cosmetics.
Cyberpunk 2077 Sequel May Be Leaving Night City
The Cyberpunk 2077 sequel could be leaving Night City and introducing players to a new urban environment, according to a recent comment.
Cosmetics Are a Missed Opportunity That the Sequel Can Correct
Firstly, clothing items in Cyberpunk 2077 are tied to armor ratings, and so that is the first thing CD Projekt Red may want to address, as it limits their flexibility. Players often have to choose between aesthetics and performance, and that leads to a homogenized look that feels more tactical than stylistic. Meanwhile, NPCs roam the streets in layered, neon-drenched outfits that showcase creativity and cultural variety that the game is supposed to double down on.
In a world designed for street artists and avant-garde rebels, Cyberpunk 2077's sequel can shatter this constraint by decoupling aesthetics from stats and introducing a transmog system that lets players wear any piece of gear for style while keeping their optimal loadout intact. Beyond that, CD Projekt Red could also focus on creating entirely new categories of clothing that push the boundaries of design — garments with dynamic elements, reactive materials, and holographic projections that change based on mood, environment, or combat state.
Other Games, as Well as Cyberpunk 2077’s Lore, Already Paves the Way for Better Fashion Sense
The concept isn’t new, either, because titles like Destiny 2 and Final Fantasy 14 have long embraced the idea of separating form from function, giving players full control over their appearance without sacrificing gameplay viability. Even Cyberpunk 2077's own modding scene has demonstrated the demand for more expressive customization. Players have gone so far as to build custom textures, outfits, and accessories to fill the gaps left by the base game.
Cyberpunk's Night City is a place where body modification is common, fashion is a statement, and excess is celebrated. As such, the sequel has the perfect backdrop to introduce extreme customization because of this, and that could include anything from LED tattoos to modular armor pieces to environmental-reactive fabrics, or even fashion inspired by corporate sponsorships and underground movements.
Improved Customization Would Make Cyberpunk 2077 More Authentic
Integrating a more robust cosmetic system isn’t just about giving players more outfits, but about doubling down on the environmental and open-world themes that make Cyberpunk what it is. Allowing players to truly inhabit a personalized identity in a world obsessed with appearance would make the experience feel more authentic and immersive.
This shift could also increase player investment. When gamers can project their version of V into Night City, complete with all the absurd, flashy, or minimalist style choices they prefer, they may be more likely to engage deeply with the game. They could want to explore more, interact with more NPCs, and could view fashion as part of the worldbuilding, not just an afterthought as it was to some extent in Cyberpunk 2077. If the sequel goes all in on this direction, it could even set a new standard for RPG customization, so hopefully CD Projekt Red is thinking fashion-forward when crafting its next futuristic experience.
Cyberpunk 2077
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OpenCritic Reviews
- Top Critic Avg: 76 /100 Critics Rec: 66%
- Released
- December 10, 2020
- ESRB
- M for Mature: Blood and Gore, Intense Violence, Nudity, Strong Language, Strong Sexual Content, Use of Drugs and Alcohol
- Developer(s)
- CD Projekt Red
- Publisher(s)
- CD Projekt Red
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?
