The recent Cyberpunk 2077 update, version 2.0 and the Phantom Liberty DLC released in late September 2023, brought significant changes and additions to the game. Here’s a clear breakdown of the major updates:
1. Gameplay Overhaul
- Skill Tree and Perks Revamp: The skill tree was completely reworked, introducing new perks and playstyle options. This includes abilities to improve melee combat, hacking, and specialized skills for tech weapons and cyberware.
- Cyberware Rework: Cyberware has been overhauled with a new capacity system, limiting the amount of cyberware based on the player’s “cyberware capacity.” This adds more strategic choices when equipping implants.
- Police System Overhaul: The NCPD (Night City Police Department) system has been improved, making police reactions more realistic. Officers now respond dynamically to the player’s actions, and high crime levels lead to car chases or calling for reinforcements.
- Vehicle Combat: Players can now engage in vehicle combat, including the ability to shoot from their car, use mounted weapons on certain vehicles, and hack enemy vehicles while driving.
2. New Storyline – Phantom Liberty DLC
- New Area: Dogtown, a restricted district, is introduced with a unique set of missions, side activities, and an entirely new environment to explore.
- New Characters: Key characters such as Solomon Reed, portrayed by Idris Elba, play a pivotal role in the storyline, which follows V working undercover on a dangerous mission tied to the government.
- New Relic Skill Tree: Exclusive to the DLC, the Relic skill tree provides new abilities and enhancements that help the player survive in Dogtown and tackle Phantom Liberty’s challenges.
3. Quality of Life Improvements
- Inventory and UI: Improvements to the inventory and user interface make it easier to manage weapons, cyberware, and clothing.
- Enhanced Graphics and Performance: For next-gen consoles and PC, updates have boosted graphics, fixed bugs, and optimized overall performance, with ray tracing features enhanced.
These updates collectively have transformed the Cyberpunk 2077 experience, focusing on both adding content and making the gameplay smoother and more immersive for returning and new players.