Cyberpunk 2077 sequel will transform Chicago into a dystopian setting
- Mike Pondsmith announced the sequel will include a new city inspired by a dystopian version of Chicago.
- The lore indicates that Chicago has faced a 'bioplague' and is now lawless and isolated.
- This new setting will provide fresh gameplay dynamics, contrasting with Night City's corporate atmosphere.
At the Digital Dragons event in Poland, Mike Pondsmith from CD Projekt Red revealed exciting details about the sequel to Cyberpunk 2077. The new installment, tentatively referred to as Cyberpunk 2078, will not be limited to Night City, the established setting of the previous game. Instead, it will introduce a second city that draws inspiration from a dystopian version of Chicago. Pondsmith's description indicated that this city reflects a societal collapse, indicating a shift from the corporate-run environment of Night City to something more chaotic and lawless. Chicago's portrayal within the Cyberpunk universe is noteworthy, as the city is already referenced in the lore. It has been depicted as a place grappling with a “bioplague,” leading to its isolation and a breakdown of law and order. This backstory suggests that the new city will not merely be inspired by Chicago, but will incorporate elements of its narrative challenges. This context offers depth to the game's world, contrasting with the vibrancy yet crime-laden atmosphere of Night City. The excitement around the sequel hinges on the juxtaposition of these two cities, as players will experience distinct dynamics in gameplay, environments, and storytelling. The exploration of this new city will present opportunities for players to engage in missions and narrative arcs that differ significantly from those in Night City. Consequently, this anticipation may alleviate concerns about returning to a world that many have already explored fully. Fans of the original game are eager to see how the lore surrounding Chicago will be integrated into the gameplay mechanics and visual storytelling of the sequel. The hope is that it will lead to a fresh experience that deepens the Cyberpunk narrative while preserving its hallmark themes of cybernetic enhancement and corporate hegemony. With the right execution, this transition could redefine the player's engagement with the game, potentially elevating it to new heights within the franchise.