Summary

  • Netrunning in Cyberpunk 2077 lets players control Night City digitally, offering versatility to handle challenges creatively.
  • Patch updates enhanced Netrunning in Cyberpunk 2077, allowing for more potent builds and strategic gameplay choices.
  • Building a strong Netrunner requires maxing out intelligence, technical ability, and distributing attribute points strategically.

Netrunning in Cyberpunk 2077 is more than just a game mechanic — it is a way to become the digital puppeteer of the Night City. Netrunners can bypass traditional combat scenarios by turning the digital infrastructure of Night City against their enemies. It involves hacking into enemy cyberware, disabling security systems, and even causing vehicles to explode. But what truly sets Netrunning aside is the versatility and adaptability it provides through the massive list of cyberdecks and Quickhacks. This is what allows players to tackle in-game challenges in a multitude of creative ways.

The previous Cyberpunk 2077 2.0 patch brought major overhauls to the Netrunning side of lore. It forced many players to explore wilder and more inventive builds. Thanks to the flexibility, players can craft a build based on their playstyle, whether it’s sneaking through shadows or charging headfirst into battle with a Quickhack arsenal. Patch 2.1, which was rolled out in December 2023, didn’t do much to alter the core concept of Netrunning. However, it introduced several key adjustments that only added to the gameplay and allowed for wild build choices.

How to Max out a Netrunner Build and Dominate the Night City

In Cyberpunk 2077, V's character attributes start with 3 points by default. The Character Creation System also hands out 7 points to the players for distribution. All of this is insufficient to create a lethal Netrunner build. To fully take advantage of all the cyberdecks, quickhacks, and perks available, reaching level 50 is crucial. Players can also increase their level cap to 60 through the Phantom Liberty DLC and unlock access to exclusive perk points. When distributing attribute points in a Netrunner build, maxing out intelligence with 20 points is necessary for cracking more complex systems.

Technical ability should also be maxed out because it increases the cyberdeck capacity and unlocks access to multiple cyberware. For players preferring a durable build, allocating 17 points to the body would be a better choice. 9 points is the bare minimum for reflexes, which unlocks the Dash perk for body maneuvers and quick escapes. Lastly, allocating 15 points to the Cool attribute unlocks the Ninjutsu perk, which is essential for stealthy scenarios.

Cyberpunk 2077’s 2.1 Patch Supercharged Netrunning With Updates

After Cyberpunk 2077’s 2.1 update, Netrunning became even more potent. One of its standout changes is the improvement of Overclock Ability for players who reach level 60 in Netrunner skill. It allows players to reveal enemies within a 10-meter radius and hack them through the cover. The patch also introduced new cyberware options, such as Feen-X Skeleton and Cogito Lattice Integumentary System. The feen-X increases RAM regeneration by up to 250%, and Cogito Lattice boosts armor when RAM is depleted. These additions help players create a resilient build for crucial combats in the game.

Netrunning's Edge in Street Races

One of the lesser-known but highly effective uses of Netrunning in Cyberpunk 2077 is during street races. By utilizing Quickhacks, players can easily disable or even destroy other vehicles, making for a straightforward but ruthless victory. Additionally, Netrunners can employ Quickhacks to make themselves harder to hit or shoot at during these high-speed challenges. Specific actions, such as neutralizing enemies, can also contribute to increased stats, providing a significant advantage in the race. This blend of digital warfare and high-octane racing showcases just how versatile and powerful a well-crafted Netrunner build can be in Night City.

The Best Arsenal To Make a Netrunner Build Unstoppable

The right combination of Cyberdeck and Quickhacks is essential for creating a great Netrunner build. After the 2.0 update, many players are recommending the Tetratronic Rippler Mk.5 because of its largest RAM Boost at Tier 5++. Similarly, the Netwatch Netdriver Mk.1 is the perfect cyberdeck for a tactical approach with its 50% RAM cost reduction and vehicle quickhacks.

When it comes to cyberware, RAM Reallocator is one of the top picks because of its ability to restore 30% of max RAM when it falls below 20%. Pairing this with the Ex-Disk cyberware increases max RAM by 6 and speeds up Cyberpunk 2077's quickhack uploads by 23%. All this will help players outpace their enemies in any scenario. For legs, the gaming community recommends Reinforced Tendons for double jumps and better movement. The recent patches and updates of Cyberpunk 2077 have only enhanced the Netrunning playstyle and widened the opportunity for creative domination.

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Top Critic Avg: 76 /100 Critics Rec: 66%
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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
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WHERE TO PLAY

SUBSCRIPTION
DIGITAL
PHYSICAL
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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?

Engine
REDengine 4
Cross-Platform Play
ps, xbox, pc
Cross Save
yes
Franchise
Cyberpunk
Steam Deck Compatibility
yes
Genre(s)
RPG, Action
How Long To Beat
25 Hours
PS Plus Availability
Extra & Premium