As CD Projekt Red’s latest venture, Cyberpunk 2077, took the gaming world by storm with its provocative and often divisive narrative set in a dystopian future. Before this title captured everyone’s attention, CD Projekt Red was best known for the beloved Witcher 3. Now, with the sequel to Cyberpunk 2077—codenamed Project Orion—on the horizon, anticipation is high, and many are curious about the direction the next chapter might take.
Creating a sequel to Cyberpunk 2077 presents a unique challenge due to its multiple possible endings, ranging from positive to dismal. Deciding on a canonical ending is a bold move that could have significant implications. Despite this challenge, there might be a clever way to bridge Cyberpunk 2077 and Project Orion that satisfies many fans. Although The Witcher 3 doesn’t share much thematic ground with Cyberpunk 2077, the overarching narrative of Geralt’s journey might offer a strategic framework for what could unfold in Project Orion.
In The Witcher 3, the central plot revolves around Geralt searching for Ciri, his adoptive daughter and former apprentice, who is being hunted by the Wild Hunt. In Cyberpunk 2077, V’s story is left open-ended, making it tricky to bring them back as the main character. Therefore, introducing a fresh protagonist appears to be a promising path for CD Projekt Red. Yet, this new direction doesn’t necessarily mean V is gone for good.
Following a similar approach to The Witcher 3, Project Orion could revolve around a new lead character who is, perhaps, searching for V. In the aftermath of Cyberpunk 2077, V’s actions have undoubtedly left a significant mark on Night City, possibly landing them on several wanted lists. This notoriety can’t simply be ignored in Project Orion, so a protagonist on the hunt for V might offer an intriguing storyline that links both games.
Cyberpunk 2077 was all about climbing to power on the gritty streets of Night City. However, if Project Orion draws inspiration from The Witcher 3, it might chart a different course. Consider a narrative from the perspective of an NCPD officer. This would contrast sharply with V’s story and provide players with fresh moral dilemmas and choices as this officer grapples with the chaotic world of Night City, potentially on a mission to find V. Such an approach would be a daring twist given Cyberpunk 2077’s unpredictable nature, but it opens the door for a variety of other character types and storylines.
When it comes to Project Orion maintaining ties to V, there are both advantages and drawbacks. It might be best if CD Projekt Red chooses a loose connection, allowing the franchise to start anew without getting tangled in the intricacies of past narratives. Still, given V’s intrinsic link to the allure of Night City, it’s understandable that players might want more—even if through subtle references.
Until CD Projekt Red provides more details on Project Orion, we can only speculate on how the sequel will evolve. Drawing from the narrative successes of The Witcher 3 might just be the key to seamlessly connecting Cyberpunk 2077 with its successor.
