Key Takeaways
1. CD Projekt RED is developing a sequel to Cyberpunk 2077, titled Project Orion, building on the original game’s foundation.
2. The new game’s setting is described as a ‘Chicago gone wrong’ atmosphere, suggesting a post-apocalyptic urban landscape.
3. Mike Pondsmith, the creator of the Cyberpunk universe, has shared insights about the sequel but is not heavily involved in its development.
4. There are numerous job openings at CD Projekt RED for Project Orion, including roles focused on creating a more realistic and engaging NPC crowd system.
5. Project Orion was announced in October of the previous year, following the original game’s successful recovery after a troubled launch.
CD Projekt RED is currently engaged in the development of a follow-up to Cyberpunk 2077, known as Project Orion. The team is diligently expanding upon the groundwork established by the first game. While details about the sequel remain limited, some exciting new insights about the game’s setting have emerged from one of the consultants involved with Cyberpunk 2077. It has been revealed that the new game will portray a city that embodies a ‘Chicago gone wrong’ atmosphere.
Insights from Mike Pondsmith
During a discussion at the Digital Dragons 2025 event, Mike Pondsmith, who consulted on the original title and is the mind behind the Cyberpunk universe, disclosed that although he is not deeply engaged with the sequel, he has been in touch with various teams working on Project Orion. He described the game’s environment as having a ‘Chicago gone wrong’ essence, hinting at a potentially post-apocalyptic city inspired by Chicago.
A New Urban Landscape
This fresh cityscape will be an addition to Night City, though its size remains uncertain. Pondsmith mentioned that the new locale aligns well with the sequel, but he declined to provide any further information about it.
Opportunities at CD Projekt RED
There are numerous job vacancies available for roles related to Project Orion/Cyberpunk 2, and CD Projekt RED has seemingly filled several positions, including that of Lead Encounter Designer. The job description for this role highlighted the goal to “create the most realistic and reactive crowd system in any game to date,” indicating that interactions with NPCs will be more engaging than what players experienced in the original game.
Project Orion was unveiled in October of the previous year as the sequel to Cyberpunk 2077. The first game, launched in December 2020, experienced a rocky start; however, due to the hard work and dedication of the developers, it made a remarkable comeback and now enjoys a ‘Very Positive’ rating on Steam.
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