With Cyberpunk 2077's sequel, codenamed Project Orion, in early development, the question of which ending to build upon remains a significant debate. Among the game's multiple conclusions, "The Star" ending of Cyberpunk 2077 stands out as a compelling foundation for the next chapter. In this resolution, V leaves Night City with Panam and the Aldecaldos, setting out on a hopeful yet uncertain journey to find a cure for their deteriorating condition. It offers a rare moment of optimism within the game's otherwise bleak cyberpunk narrative, while still maintaining a sense of melancholy.
Choosing to follow "The Star" ending could present developers at CD Projekt RED with opportunities to expand the world beyond Night City. A sequel centered around V’s continued struggle could bring fresh environments and new challenges while preserving the emotional weight of the first game. Alternatively, a new protagonist could step into the spotlight within Night City, allowing V’s story to linger in the background as an unresolved legend.
The Argument for Cyberpunk 2077's Sequel to Follow the Temperance Ending
Project Orion may very well be forced to make one of Cyberpunk 2077's endings canon, and the Temperance ending is perhaps the best route.
Expanding Cyberpunk 2077's World Beyond Night City
One of the most logical directions for Project Orion is to explore territories outside the confines of Night City. "The Star" ending already establishes V’s departure with the Aldecaldos, a nomadic group well-versed in navigating the Badlands and beyond. This shift in setting would not only provide a stark contrast to the densely packed metropolis but also introduce new cultures, settlements, and factions.
The Aldecaldos’ role in CP 2077 could be further expanded, showcasing their influence across the wider world. Players could engage in stories of survival and rebellion against corporations that extend their reach far beyond Night City’s walls. Themes of hope and resilience, intertwined with V’s search for a cure, could offer a narrative that evolves organically from the first game. This would also avoid the potential fatigue of retreading the same cityscape, ensuring the sequel feels like a genuine expansion of Cyberpunk 2077's universe.
Addressing Cyberpunk 2077's Romance and Community Concerns
However, anchoring the sequel to "The Star" ending raises inevitable concerns. Players who chose alternate conclusions may feel alienated if their preferred endings are disregarded. In Cyberpunk 2077, V's relationships with characters like Judy, River, or Kerry were deeply personal, and leaving those romances unresolved could diminish the emotional impact of those choices.
A possible solution would be to incorporate flashbacks, messages, or environmental storytelling that acknowledge these branching outcomes. For example, V might receive sporadic communications from old friends in Cyberpunk 2077's Night City, reflecting the player’s past decisions. This would ensure continuity while allowing the sequel to maintain a clear narrative focus. Additionally, V’s ongoing internal struggle with the relic's remnants could introduce moments of reflection on what was left behind.
On the other hand, a new protagonist could sidestep these concerns entirely. In this scenario, V’s departure becomes a key piece of Night City’s lore, whispered about in Afterlife’s back rooms or referenced in corporate chatter.
Balancing Cyberpunk 2077's Grit with Hopeful Themes
Another critical consideration is how a sequel might preserve the cyberpunk tone that defined Cyberpunk 2077. While "The Star" ending offers a glimpse of hope, the genre thrives on examining the tension between optimism and dystopia. Even if V’s journey with the Aldecaldos suggests a brighter future, the harsh realities of corporate control, technological exploitation, and environmental ruin would remain ever-present.
A bittersweet narrative would be fitting, with V’s search for a cure fraught with setbacks and moral dilemmas. The sequel could delve deeper into the consequences of their choices, perhaps uncovering further horrors tied to Arasaka’s experiments. Panam and the Aldecaldos may also face increasing threats as they navigate a world unwilling to let anyone escape the system.
CD Projekt RED's choice to stick with a first-person perspective suggests a continued emphasis on immersive storytelling. This approach would allow the sequel to retain its intimate connection with V’s perspective, capturing every moment of their uncertain journey. Combining this with improved narrative techniques could elevate the emotional stakes further.
Ultimately, grounding Project Orion in "The Star" ending could provide a powerful narrative springboard. Whether following V’s ongoing struggle or introducing a new protagonist, the sequel has the potential to explore uncharted regions, introduce new factions, and expand the emotional weight of Cyberpunk 2077's world. While challenges remain in balancing player choice and maintaining the game’s dark tone, CD Projekt RED has the opportunity to craft a story that feels both authentic and forward-thinking.
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WHERE TO PLAY
Phantom Liberty is a new spy-thriller adventure for Cyberpunk 2077. When the orbital shuttle of the President of the New United States of America is shot down over the deadliest district of Night City, there’s only one person who can save her — you. Become V, a cyberpunk for hire, and dive deep into a tangled web of espionage and political intrigue, unraveling a story that connects the highest echelons of power with the brutal world of black-market mercenaries.
