CD Projekt Red recently released further details regarding theCyberpunk 2077upcoming expansionPhantom Libertyas part of the Xbox Games Showcase 2023. For months now, players have been speculating as to what new features might be included inCyberpunk 2077as well as potential additions to the game’s story and lore. Aside from being largely based within ‘Dogtown’ and starring Idris Elba, not much was known about how the expansion, along with its companion update, might affect the overall mechanics and gameplay in theCyberpunk 2077experience.
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Following the release of a new trailer at theXbox Games Showcase, as well as reports from players who have had hands-on testing with the new DLC, several new potential features have been teased, leaving players with further questions about how the game might shape up following the release ofPhantom Libertylater this year.
5New Weapons
A variety of new weapons and modifications, and even melee finishing animations, can be expected as part ofCyberpunk 2077’sPhantom LibertyDLC. While it is not certain which of these new weapons may be a part of the update (and thusavailable in the base game for free) and which might be exclusive to the DLC, the trailer did tease an extremely high-spec-looking silenced pistol at the very least.
While it seems little doubt that some weapons will be exclusive to the DLC, there could also be substantial additions to the variety and versatility of many different weapon types in the base game as well. Along with these, it also seems that a new mechanism has been added to enable players to perform new unique finishing animations when armed with melee weapons and fighting opponents whose health has dropped below a certain threshold.
4Vehicle Combat
One of the most requested features inCyberpunk 2077which was largely omitted from the base game was the inclusion of vehicle combat. While there were some scripted sequences in which players could fire from their vehicle as part of the game’s main storyline, many players were left frustrated that this was not acore component of the game.
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Fortunately, it would seem that CDPR has addressed this inPhantom Libertyand a sequence showing players firing from their car, as well as rumors of vehicles that have weapons attached to them as part of their design, could serve as evidence.
3Improved Police
Another feature that was the subject of much criticism in Cyberpunk 2077’s original release was the poorly implemented crime system and lack of realistic police. Rather than simply spawning in a nearby location, it would seem that withPhantom Liberty, CDPR has completelyoverhauled the policing systemand added a “Wanted level” mechanic which will increase depending on the player’s crimes.
From singular officers on motorcycles right the way up to armored MaxTac units, it would seem that this issue is finally being addressed in full - which makes sense given that the primary focus of the DLC’s story appears to be a political one and should feature many different types of police units.
2Songbird
One of the more mysterious and intriguing aspects of the newPhantom Libertytrailer is the introduction of the character ‘Songbird’. While it is not clear exactly what role she might play in the overall narrative, it is mentioned that she offers V a cure for their terminal illness, which could have massive implications for the outcome of the game’s story. Much like Johnny Silverhand, Songbird appears to exist in a slightly different dimension than normal and is surrounded by digital static similar to Keanu Reeves’character of Johnny Silverhand.
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While she may appear to be an ally, it is hinted that there could be an element of broken promises or betrayal given V’s dialogue in the trailer. It is also possible that players might get to determine their outcomes regarding their relationship with Songbird in similar ways to other characters in the game. Either way, Songbird is already an intriguing character and islikely to play a central role in the upcoming DLC.
1Giant Mechs
While manyCyberpunk 2077players will be familiar with Adam Smasher, there is asurprising absence of mech charactersin a world so dominated by robotics and transhumanism. It would seem that at least one gigantic, spider-like mech boss will be featured as part of the expansion, though whether players will have to face it or simply escape it is unclear for now. This giant robot is shown to have a giant destructive laser beam and appears to be pursuing both V and the fleeing president.
This sort of cinematic gameplay was one of the original game’s strongest features, so players can be sure to expect some breathtaking cinematics and environmental storytelling. Whatever the case may be,Phantom Libertylooks to be more spectacular, intense, and intriguing with every further tease.
Cyberpunk 2077: Phantom Libertyis due to release on 26th September and will be available on PC, Xbox Series X|S, and PS5.
