The gaming community has eagerly received the 2.0 update for Cyberpunk 2077, noting various improvements, particularly in the police system. Nevertheless, the recently launched DLC, Phantom Liberty, appears to sidestep one of the main enhancements. This article delves into the absence of the updated police system in the new DLC and what it means for the player experience.

The New Police System in Cyberpunk 2077’s 2.0 Update

Cyberpunk 2077’s 2.0 update has been instrumental in refining the game’s mechanics. One of the standout features is the newly designed police system. Unlike before, the Night City Police Department (NCPD) now exhibits behavior more akin to a real-world police force. The officers patrol the streets and actively pursue players engaging in criminal activities, thereby adding a layer of realism and challenge to the game. This update also introduces new interactive features, such as listening in on NCPD radio chatter and quick hacking capabilities aimed at police officers.

Phantom Liberty’s Unique Locale: Dogtown

Phantom Liberty transports players to Dogtown, an area segregated from the rest of Night City and under the governance of a military tyrant, Colonel Kurt Hansen. Unlike other districts, Dogtown has no NCPD presence due to its autonomous nature. Consequently, the Barghest militia, led by Hansen, acts as the local law enforcement, albeit in a way that often serves their interests over those of the local population. This provides a different, more anarchic playing experience compared to the rest of Night City.

The Missed Opportunity in Dogtown

The absence of the updated NCPD system in Dogtown represents a peculiar development choice. While Dogtown’s lawlessness aligns with its narrative backdrop, the timing of releasing a police system overhaul concurrently with a DLC that cannot utilize it is confounding. Players cannot experience the new police mechanics within the boundaries of Dogtown, even though they remain free to explore other parts of Night City that feature the updated NCPD.

Inconsistency in Narrative and Game Mechanics

The disconnection between the new police system and the Phantom Liberty DLC poses questions about the synchronization of narrative and game mechanics. It may not undermine the overall gaming experience, but it does seem to represent a misalignment in terms of planning and execution on the part of CD Projekt Red. One would naturally expect new updates to seamlessly integrate across all aspects of the game, including new DLCs.

Player Options Outside Dogtown

While the updated police system doesn’t feature in Dogtown, players still have the option to venture outside the walled district to experience the new NCPD mechanics. They can engage with patrolling police officers in the broader expanse of Night City and partake in the newly designed police chases. Nonetheless, the lack of this feature in Dogtown remains a noticeable omission.

Final Thoughts

The 2.0 update for Cyberpunk 2077 has undoubtedly added significant value to the game. However, the timing and execution concerning the Phantom Liberty DLC raise questions about the incorporation of new features into expanded game content. While it doesn’t hamper the gameplay, the omission of an updated police system in a new setting within the game does appear incongruous.

Also Read: