CD Projekt Red Advances Cyberpunk 2 Into Preproduction

CD Projekt Red, the acclaimed game developer behind Cyberpunk 2077, has officially moved forward with its highly anticipated sequel, Cyberpunk 2. Previously known by the codename Project Orion, the game has transitioned from the conceptual phase into preproduction, signaling a significant step in its development lifecycle.

As of April 30th, 96 developers are actively working on Cyberpunk 2, highlighting the studio's commitment to delivering a robust and immersive experience. While specific details about the game remain under wraps, CD Projekt Red describes it as the next big game set in the Cyberpunk universe, promising to build on the rich narrative and expansive world established in its predecessor.

This announcement comes alongside impressive sales milestones for the original Cyberpunk 2077 and its expansion, Phantom Liberty, which has sold over 10 million copies. Additionally, the Cyberpunk 2077: Ultimate Edition, bundling the base game and expansion, is set to be a launch title for the Nintendo Switch 2 on June 5th, expanding the franchise’s reach to new audiences.

Beyond Cyberpunk, CD Projekt Red recently celebrated the 10th anniversary of The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt, which has sold over 60 million copies, underscoring the studio’s sustained success in the gaming industry. These achievements set a strong foundation for the upcoming projects and highlight the company’s ability to engage and grow its player base.

What This Means for Game Development

Moving a game from concept to preproduction is a critical phase that involves solidifying the game design, technology stack, and production pipeline. For a complex open-world title like Cyberpunk 2, this stage sets the tone for the entire development process, impacting timelines, resource allocation, and creative direction.

With nearly a hundred developers on board, CD Projekt Red is leveraging a sizable team to tackle the ambitious scope of Cyberpunk 2. This scale of collaboration requires robust project management and innovative development tools to ensure cohesion and efficiency throughout the production cycle.

The success of Cyberpunk 2077’s expansion and the upcoming Switch 2 launch also illustrate the importance of multi-platform strategies and continuous content updates in maintaining player engagement and expanding market reach.

Looking Ahead

As Cyberpunk 2 progresses through preproduction, the gaming community eagerly awaits further details. CD Projekt Red’s track record of delivering rich narratives and expansive worlds sets high expectations. This phase will be crucial in shaping the game’s features, story arcs, and technical innovations.

For developers and studios, the journey of Cyberpunk 2 offers valuable insights into managing large-scale game projects, balancing innovation with proven mechanics, and leveraging franchise momentum to sustain growth.