December 5, 2023, marks a pivotal moment for CD Projekt Red and its fans as Cyberpunk 2077 receives its final major update. This update signifies the end of a significant chapter for the game, which has seen its share of highs and lows since its initial launch. The focus now shifts towards the development of Cyberpunk 2 (codenamed Orion) and the next installment in The Witcher series (codenamed Polaris).

The Last Update: Cyberpunk 2077: Ultimate Edition

The arrival of Update 2.1 alongside the Cyberpunk 2077: Ultimate Edition brings a definitive close to the game’s development. This update encapsulates three years of hard work, dedication, and a journey of redemption following the game’s rocky launch. The Ultimate Edition is poised to offer the most comprehensive and polished experience of Cyberpunk 2077.

Shifting Gears to Orion and Polaris

CD Projekt Red’s future is vibrant with two major projects on the horizon. Orion, the sequel to Cyberpunk 2077, and Polaris, the next Witcher game, represent the studio’s ambition and commitment to its flagship franchises. The recent financial earnings report from November 2023 highlights this shift in focus, with nearly half of the studio’s staff now working on The Witcher 4.

The Development of Orion

Orion represents a fresh start for the Cyberpunk franchise. With the establishment of a new studio in the U.S., CD Projekt Red is building a dedicated team to bring this sequel to life. Led by a core team of Cyberpunk franchise leaders, including game director Gabe Amatangelo, Orion is still in its conceptual phase. The studio aims to avoid past mistakes and has implemented significant development process changes to ensure a smoother launch.

Polaris: Continuing The Witcher Legacy

The Witcher series continues with Polaris, promising to build upon the rich narrative and immersive world that fans have come to love. The shift of staff from Cyberpunk 2077 to Polaris indicates the studio’s commitment to delivering another groundbreaking RPG experience in the Witcher universe.

Embracing Change and Evolution

Both Orion and Polaris represent a new era for CD Projekt Red. The studio is open to exploring different gameplay styles and narrative directions. For instance, they are considering a shift from first-person to third-person perspective in Orion, if it enhances the gaming experience.

Final Thoughts

As Cyberpunk 2077 closes its chapter with the final update, CD Projekt Red embarks on an ambitious journey with Orion and Polaris. These projects symbolize the studio’s resilience and ability to evolve, promising exciting times ahead for the gaming community.

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