Why the Sequel to Cyberpunk 2077 Should Embrace the Star Ending

As Cyberpunk 2077’s much-anticipated sequel, codenamed Project Orion, begins to take shape, the pivotal decision of which game ending to extend into a new storyline looms large. With multiple conclusions available, “The Star” ending emerges as a strong contender for extending the narrative. Here, V moves on from Night City with Panam and the Aldecaldos, embarking on an uncertain yet hopeful quest for a cure to V’s ailments. This ending injects a rare sliver of hope into an otherwise gritty cyberpunk tale while still carrying an undercurrent of somberness.

Opting for “The Star” as the launchpad for the sequel offers CD Projekt RED some intriguing possibilities. It can open up new realms beyond the familiar neon glow of Night City, allowing for fresh environments and plotlines without losing the emotional depth of the original game. Alternatively, a new protagonist could take the reins, letting V’s story simmer in the backdrop as an enigmatic legend that’s yet to be unraveled.

### Expanding Cyberpunk 2077’s World Beyond Night City

Project Orion has the chance to break free from Night City’s clutches and explore new territories. “The Star” ending already sees V leaving with the Aldecaldos, a band known for their adventurous spirit in the vast Badlands and territories beyond. This setting shift can offer a striking contrast to the bustling urban sprawl, presenting new cultures, communities, and power dynamics.

The sequel could delve deeper into the Aldecaldos’ world, highlighting their struggle against corporate tyranny extending far beyond Night City’s limits. This thematic focus on survival and resistance, interwoven with V’s personal quest for a cure, could create a narrative that naturally evolves from its predecessor. Such a direction might also dispel any monotony that could arise from revisiting Night City’s familiar streets, ensuring the sequel feels like a true expansion.

### Addressing Cyberpunk 2077’s Romance and Community Concerns

However, anchoring the sequel to “The Star” ending does pose certain challenges. Players who experienced different endings might feel overlooked if those narratives are left unresolved. In the original game, V’s bonds with characters like Judy, River, or Kerry were deeply individual, and leaving those threads dangling might lessen the emotional payoff of those choices.

To address this, developers could use creative storytelling elements like flashbacks, messages, or environmental cues to acknowledge past decisions. For instance, V might receive sporadic updates from former allies back in Night City, reflecting the player’s unique journey. This approach can maintain narrative continuity while honing in on a focused storyline. Additionally, grappling with the relic’s remnants could afford V moments of contemplation over the paths left untaken.

On the flip side, introducing a new main character could bypass these issues entirely. Here, V’s departure could become a part of Night City’s folklore, whispered among mercenaries in back alleys or noted in clandestine corporate exchanges.

### Balancing Cyberpunk 2077’s Grit with Hopeful Themes

Maintaining the distinctive cyberpunk atmosphere of the original game is another vital consideration. While “The Star” ending hints at optimism, the genre thrives on the tension between hope and bleakness. Even if V and the Aldecaldos embark on a promising journey, themes of corporate dominance, tech misuse, and ecological decay would loom large.

A narrative that balances hope with grim realities would befit the sequel, portraying V’s quest fraught with moral complexity and setbacks. It could probe deeper into troubling revelations tied to Arasaka’s technological manipulations. Panam and the Aldecaldos might also confront mounting dangers as they try to evade the pervasive reach of systemic control.

CD Projekt RED’s commitment to first-person storytelling suggests a sustained focus on an immersive narrative style. This approach allows for a raw, intimate connection with V’s journey, capturing the nuance of every trial and triumph. Coupled with advanced storytelling techniques, it could uplift the emotional stakes significantly.

In the end, basing Project Orion on “The Star” ending offers an expansive canvas for storytelling. Whether it tracks V’s ongoing saga or shifts to a new character, the sequel promises a richer exploration of uncharted territories, novel factions, and deeper emotional narratives within Cyberpunk 2077’s universe. While there are hurdles to overcome in respecting player choices and preserving the game’s dark edge, there’s a tantalizing opportunity for CD Projekt RED to craft a forward-thinking, authentic storyline.