Cyberpunk 2077 is officially set to get a sequel with Project Orion. Now that development for Project Orion is underway, there are plenty of rumors and theories about where the story of Cyberpunk 2077 will head next. One of the biggest points of speculation is whether Project Orion will leave Night City or not, and a specific theory suggests space may be the franchise's next destination.
A recent leak revealing there was once a planned moon-based DLC for Cyberpunk 2077 has ignited theories that it was ultimately canceled so that the concept could be used for Project Orion. If this happens to be the case, a level based around the moon could be a fascinating route for Project Orion to take, but there are some pros and cons to both sides.
Destiny 2 Player Transforms Their Titan Into Adam Smasher From Cyberpunk 2077
A Destiny 2 player uses the in-game customization system to create a Titan based on notorious Cyberpunk 2077 villain Adam Smasher.
The Pros of Project Orion Featuring Space
Showing Another Side to Cyberpunk 2077's World
Cyberpunk 2077's world is a fascinating glimpse into what a dystopian future could look like, and it would only make sense for Project Orion to explore more of that. Last year's Phantom Liberty DLC expanded the scope of the base game, giving a deeper look into what this fractured version of America is like. It would only be more thrilling to see how a brand-new corporation or yet-to-be-seen faction goes about colonizing Earth's moon.
Not only would it present a completely fresh location to explore, but this moon colony could have its own set of gangs, characters, and economy that continue the themes of Cyberpunk 2077 while giving players a fresh spin. It has already been established that there is a moon colony that has yet to be explored. If players choose to help Songbird in Phantom Liberty, she takes transport to the mysterious space settlement, leaving the door wide open for Project Orion to connect that loose thread, depending on which DLC ending CD Projekt Red considers canon. A moon civilization could be the perfect way to make Project Orion stand on its own from its predecessor.
The Cons of Project Orion's Potential Space Exploration
Losing an Opportunity to Dive Deeper Into Night City
The clearest downside of leaving Night City in exhange for space would be setting aside the rich world that Cyberpunk 2077 presented. Night City is filled with life, and a sequel could focus on making the iconic metropolis even more realistic. Cyberpunk 2077 features 11 unique gangs, and it feels like the first game has only scratched the surface of their potential.
- 6th Street
- Animals
- Aldecaldos
- BARGHEST
- Maelstrom
- The Mox
- Scavengers
- Tyger Claws
- Valentinos
- Voodoo Boys
- Wraiths
The various gangs of Night City are all compelling in their own right. Whether it's the Dogtown militia of BARGHEST or the strength-obsessed Animals, each gang occupying the streets of Night City is a treasure trove of compelling stories. If Project Orion focuses a lot of its attention on a moon colony, the sequel may not get the chance to showcase these 11 groups properly. Of course, there is the temptation to see beyond Night City, but the densely populated location is such a great demonstration of the different themes Cyberpunk 2077 explores. Corporate greed, poverty, and the constant urge to make one's name known in a sea of others trying to do the exact same may not be as well executed in another location.
If CD Projekt Red is looking towards space, it's highly unlikely that the sequel will focus solely on the space colony. It's more likely that a moon settlement will be a small chapter in a much larger story, so there may be plenty of room for Project Orion to introduce new space-dwelling gangs while also further showcasing the franchise's established factions. Wherever Project Orion takes players, it will be fascinating to see what the Cyberpunk 2077 franchise has in store for players.
Cyberpunk 2077
- Released
- December 10, 2020
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?
- 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
- Engine
- REDengine 4
- Platform(s)
- PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X, Xbox Series S, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch 2, PC
- How Long To Beat
- 25 Hours
- Metascore
- 75
- PS Plus Availability
- Extra & Premium
