CD Projekt Red To Expand the ‘Cyberpunk' Universe With ‘Project Orion' Game
Summary
CD Projekt Red's highly anticipated sequel toCyberpunk 2077, codenamedProject Orion, is currently in development. Specific details about the game remain limited, but recent insights have emerged from Mike Pondsmith, the original creator of theCyberpunktabletop RPG. In an interview with Polish gaming channeltvgryat the Digital Dragons Conference, Pondsmith revealed thatProject Orionwill introduce a second major city. He characterized this new setting as 'Chicago gone wrong,' presenting a significant stylistic contrast to the vibrant, neon-lit andBlade Runner-inspired aesthetic of Night City.
Although Pondsmith is less directly involved inProject Orioncompared to its predecessor, he confirmed that he has reviewed scripts and visited the development studio to provide feedback. He noted that the new city will have a distinct atmosphere, diverging from Night City's cyberpunk noir feel. While he refrained from confirming whether the setting is literally Chicago, fans have speculated that the game may incorporate in-universe lore referencing Chicago's economic collapse, corporate wars and bio-plague — elements that align with the gritty, dystopian themes of the franchise.
Project Orionis being developed by CD Projekt Red's Boston and Vancouver studios, with the goal of pushing theCyberpunkfranchise forward. While CD Projekt Red has not yet announced a definitive release date forProject Orion, the studio has hinted at crucial technical details. The game is expected to be built using Unreal Engine 5, promising enhanced visuals and immersive gameplay.
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