CD Projekt Red has finally shared new details about its sequel to Cyberpunk 2077, offering fans a glimpse into one of the game’s most exciting features. While the studio has kept most of the sequel’s information under wraps, recent job postings for their Boston-based studio provide insight into the ambitious direction the company is taking.
One of the standout features in the upcoming Cyberpunk 2077 sequel is its crowd system. According to a role description for an open position at CD Projekt Red, the sequel will boast “the most realistic and reactive crowd system in any game to date.” The studio is currently looking to hire a Lead Encounter Designer who will play a key role in developing this highly anticipated feature.
The job listing emphasizes the importance of collaboration with the systems design team to create dynamic, lifelike crowds. Players can expect more than just a visual upgrade — the crowds will react in real time to the player’s actions, likely making the world feel more immersive and responsive than ever before.
Codename Orion, the sequel is set to expand the Cyberpunk universe while continuing its exploration of a dark, dystopian future. Announced in 2022, Orion is being developed in collaboration between CD Projekt Red’s new Boston studio and its Vancouver team. The game will use Unreal Engine 5, marking a significant shift from the developer’s proprietary REDengine, which powered Cyberpunk 2077.
In a 2023 interview, Cyberpunk 2077 director Gabe Amatangelo shared that moving to Unreal Engine 5 felt seamless, and didn’t feel like “starting from scratch.” This transition promises a more advanced and refined gaming experience, elevating both the visuals and gameplay.
The Road Ahead for Orion
While excitement is building, CD Projekt Red has been tight-lipped about the story, setting, and release timeline for Orion. Fans can expect a continuation of the Cyberpunk narrative, though specifics about what’s next remain under wraps. The game is still likely years away from launch, with much of the development still underway.
Given the scale of the project and the innovative crowd system teased in recent job descriptions, Orion is shaping up to be a game that pushes the boundaries of open-world design. As Cyberpunk 2077 continues to captivate fans worldwide, the sequel promises to deliver an even more immersive experience.
With Orion in the works and a growing fanbase eager for more, the future of the Cyberpunk franchise looks incredibly promising. As CD Projekt Red continues to refine the game’s systems and mechanics, fans can look forward to a new era of gaming that combines cutting-edge technology with the rich narrative that the Cyberpunk universe is known for.
Are you excited about the potential of the new crowd system? How do you think this will impact the open-world experience in Orion? Keep an eye on updates from CD Projekt Red — the journey into the futuristic world of Cyberpunk is just beginning.