The Nintendo Switch 2's repertoire of games at launch is impressive, with graphics and processing-intensive titles like Cyberpunk 2077. With the optimization issues that this game had during its release year, it's pleasantly surprising to see it running on a small, handheld device like the Switch 2. While it's quite a feat to get this AAA title optimized for the new Switch 2, Nintendo and CD PROJEKT RED shouldn't stop there. Releasing the sequel to Cyberpunk 2077 on the Switch 2 could be a beneficial move for both companies, and of course, the fans.
Cyberpunk 2077 was originally released in December 2020 to mixed reviews. While fans and critics praised the game's story, many who purchased the game encountered janky and bug-filled playthroughs. However, Cyberpunk 2077 won fans back with the Phantom Liberty update and consistent bug fixes. Now, the game is coming to the Nintendo Switch 2, taking full advantage of the Joy-Con’s motion controls for combat and navigation. The Cyberpunk team also has its sights on a sequel, codenamed Project Orion. If it could fulfill a promise that the first game didn’t, it could be one of the best games to port to the Nintendo Switch 2.
Cyberpunk 2077: Project Orion's Rumored Space Setting Could Leave It Walking the Same Fine Line as Starfield
If Project Orion's space setting rumors are to be believed, then the Cyberpunk 2077 sequel could encounter a similar conundrum as Starfield.
Project Orion Could be an Excellent Game to Show Off the Switch 2's Capabilities
Project Orion Could Make the Most of the Switch 2's Voice Chat Feature
Some fans may have been disappointed that the planned multiplayer mode for Cyberpunk 2077 was canceled. As such, players are pushing for this feature in the sequel. A multiplayer mode in Project Orion would be a great way to show off the Switch 2's GameChat, which is the console’s official voice chatting feature. It also lets players stream their game to their friends in the lobby and add a video feed using a Nintendo Switch 2 camera accessory. It essentially works like a built-in Discord or TeamSpeak.
Whether Project Orion’s possible multiplayer mode will be PvP, PvE, or a mix of both, Nintendo Switch 2's GameChat can enrich the experience by letting players have the option to conveniently interact and socialize with their friends. Players can use it to coordinate strategies to clutch a win, get advice from more experienced players, and, most importantly, engage in friendly banter. Plus, if the game works well in handheld mode, players could forego GameChat altogether and revive the good ol’ LAN party.
Project Orion for the Switch 2 Could be CD PROJEKT RED's Most Ambitious Optimization Project Yet
Even if the current Nintendo Switch has some impressive specs for its form factor, it still pales in comparison to the PS5, Xbox Series X/S, and even mid-range PC builds. Switch ports for demanding games like The Witcher 3 had to cut corners in terms of graphics just to get them to run at a reasonable frame rate on the Switch. If Nintendo and CD PROJEKT RED can properly optimize not just Cyberpunk 2077 but its next-generation sequel on the Switch 2, it's a big win for both companies.
The Switch 2 already has a one-up over other popular consoles because of its versatility, allowing the player to use it handheld or docked. It’ll gain even more clout if it can start to get competitive with the PS5 Pro and Xbox Series X/S in terms of performance in demanding games. CD PROJEKT RED also has something to gain from creating a well-optimized Switch 2 version of Project Orion, especially at launch, as it can help the company win back the trust of even more players years after the troubled release of the first game. Project Orion is in its early development stages at CD PROJEKT RED’s North America arm, while Cyberpunk 2077 and its DLC, Phantom Liberty, will be available as a game card or digital download for Nintendo Switch 2 at the time of the console’s launch.
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
