CD Projekt Red recently released further details regarding the Cyberpunk 2077 upcoming expansion Phantom Liberty as part of the Xbox Games Showcase 2023. For months now, players have been speculating as to what new features might be included in Cyberpunk 2077 as well as potential additions to the game's story and lore. Aside from being largely based within 'Dogtown' and starring Idris Elba, not much was known about how the expansion, along with its companion update, might affect the overall mechanics and gameplay in the Cyberpunk 2077 experience.
Following the release of a new trailer at the Xbox Games Showcase, as well as reports from players who have had hands-on testing with the new DLC, several new potential features have been teased, leaving players with further questions about how the game might shape up following the release of Phantom Liberty later this year.
5 New Weapons
A variety of new weapons and modifications, and even melee finishing animations, can be expected as part of Cyberpunk 2077's Phantom Liberty DLC. While it is not certain which of these new weapons may be a part of the update (and thus available in the base game for free) and which might be exclusive to the DLC, the trailer did tease an extremely high-spec-looking silenced pistol at the very least.
While it seems little doubt that some weapons will be exclusive to the DLC, there could also be substantial additions to the variety and versatility of many different weapon types in the base game as well. Along with these, it also seems that a new mechanism has been added to enable players to perform new unique finishing animations when armed with melee weapons and fighting opponents whose health has dropped below a certain threshold.
4 Vehicle Combat
One of the most requested features in Cyberpunk 2077 which was largely omitted from the base game was the inclusion of vehicle combat. While there were some scripted sequences in which players could fire from their vehicle as part of the game's main storyline, many players were left frustrated that this was not a core component of the game.
Fortunately, it would seem that CDPR has addressed this in Phantom Liberty and a sequence showing players firing from their car, as well as rumors of vehicles that have weapons attached to them as part of their design, could serve as evidence.
3 Improved Police
Another feature that was the subject of much criticism in Cyberpunk 2077's original release was the poorly implemented crime system and lack of realistic police. Rather than simply spawning in a nearby location, it would seem that with Phantom Liberty, CDPR has completely overhauled the policing system and added a "Wanted level" mechanic which will increase depending on the player's crimes.
From singular officers on motorcycles right the way up to armored MaxTac units, it would seem that this issue is finally being addressed in full - which makes sense given that the primary focus of the DLC's story appears to be a political one and should feature many different types of police units.
2 Songbird
One of the more mysterious and intriguing aspects of the new Phantom Liberty trailer is the introduction of the character 'Songbird'. While it is not clear exactly what role she might play in the overall narrative, it is mentioned that she offers V a cure for their terminal illness, which could have massive implications for the outcome of the game's story. Much like Johnny Silverhand, Songbird appears to exist in a slightly different dimension than normal and is surrounded by digital static similar to Keanu Reeves' character of Johnny Silverhand.
While she may appear to be an ally, it is hinted that there could be an element of broken promises or betrayal given V's dialogue in the trailer. It is also possible that players might get to determine their outcomes regarding their relationship with Songbird in similar ways to other characters in the game. Either way, Songbird is already an intriguing character and is likely to play a central role in the upcoming DLC.
1 Giant Mechs
While many Cyberpunk 2077 players will be familiar with Adam Smasher, there is a surprising absence of mech characters in a world so dominated by robotics and transhumanism. It would seem that at least one gigantic, spider-like mech boss will be featured as part of the expansion, though whether players will have to face it or simply escape it is unclear for now. This giant robot is shown to have a giant destructive laser beam and appears to be pursuing both V and the fleeing president.
This sort of cinematic gameplay was one of the original game's strongest features, so players can be sure to expect some breathtaking cinematics and environmental storytelling. Whatever the case may be, Phantom Liberty looks to be more spectacular, intense, and intriguing with every further tease.
Cyberpunk 2077: Phantom Liberty is due to release on 26th September and will be available on PC, Xbox Series X|S, and PS5.