Cyberpunk 2077: Phantom Liberty – A Resurgence in Night City
The journey of *Cyberpunk 2077* has been nothing short of a rollercoaster. Plagued by a disastrous launch in December 2020, the game faced widespread criticism for its numerous technical issues, bugs, and performance problems, especially on older generation consoles. However, developer CD Projekt Red (CDPR) remained committed to rectifying these issues and delivering the experience they had promised. Fast forward to 2025, and the release of *Cyberpunk 2077: Phantom Liberty* marks a significant turning point, signaling a resurgence in the game’s popularity and a testament to CDPR’s dedication.
From Rocky Start to Redemption
*Cyberpunk 2077*’s initial release was met with a barrage of negative feedback. Players encountered game-breaking bugs, poor optimization, and a general lack of polish, leading to widespread disappointment and a tarnished reputation for CDPR. The company faced lawsuits and public outcry, forcing them to address the game’s issues head-on.
Over the years, CDPR released numerous patches and updates aimed at fixing bugs, improving performance, and enhancing the overall gameplay experience. These efforts gradually began to pay off, with players acknowledging the improvements and revisiting Night City. However, it was the release of *Phantom Liberty* in September 2023 that truly revitalized the game’s image.
Phantom Liberty: A Game-Changer
*Phantom Liberty* isn’t just another expansion; it’s a comprehensive overhaul that elevates *Cyberpunk 2077* to new heights. The expansion introduces a compelling new storyline, set within the previously unexplored district of Dogtown. Players assume the role of V, who is now tasked with saving the President of the New United States after her orbital shuttle crashes in this dangerous and autonomous part of Night City. This spy-thriller narrative, filled with political intrigue and moral ambiguity, provides a fresh and engaging experience for both new and returning players.
The expansion also brings significant gameplay improvements, including a revamped skill tree, enhanced AI, and new cyberware, weapons, and vehicles. Dogtown itself is a meticulously crafted environment, teeming with detail and brimming with opportunities for exploration and emergent gameplay.
Sales Milestone: 10 Million Copies and Counting
As of May 28, 2025, *Cyberpunk 2077: Phantom Liberty* has sold over 10 million copies worldwide. This milestone is a testament to the expansion’s quality and the renewed interest in the base game. The sales figures include both standalone purchases of the expansion and those bundled within the *Cyberpunk 2077: Ultimate Edition*. This achievement underscores the successful turnaround of *Cyberpunk 2077*, proving that CDPR has managed to win back the trust of its audience.
The success of *Phantom Liberty* can be attributed to several factors:
- Compelling Narrative: The spy-thriller storyline, featuring new characters like FIA agent Solomon Reed (played by Idris Elba), offers a gripping and immersive experience.
- Enhanced Gameplay: The revamped skill tree and improved AI make combat and exploration more engaging and rewarding.
- Detailed World-Building: Dogtown is a vibrant and dangerous district that feels distinct from the rest of Night City, offering new opportunities for exploration and discovery.
- Technical Improvements: The expansion benefits from the numerous patches and updates released for the base game, resulting in a more stable and polished experience.
The Witcher 3: Still a Colossus
While *Cyberpunk 2077* has been making headlines with *Phantom Liberty*’s success, CDPR’s other flagship title, *The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt*, continues to break records. As of May 2025, *The Witcher 3* has sold over 60 million copies worldwide, solidifying its place as one of the best-selling games of all time.
*The Witcher 3*’s enduring popularity is a testament to its exceptional quality, immersive world, and compelling characters. The game has received numerous awards and accolades, and its impact on the RPG genre is undeniable. The success of *The Witcher 3* has also paved the way for future installments in the franchise, with *The Witcher 4* currently in development.
CD Projekt Red: Looking Ahead
With the success of *Phantom Liberty* and the continued popularity of *The Witcher 3*, CDPR is in a strong position for the future. The company has several exciting projects in the pipeline, including:
- *Cyberpunk 2*: The sequel to *Cyberpunk 2077* has officially entered pre-production, with a team of 96 developers working on the project. CDPR aims to build upon the foundation laid by *Cyberpunk 2077* and deliver an even more ambitious and immersive experience.
- *The Witcher 4*: Also known as *Project Polaris*, *The Witcher 4* is the next mainline installment in *The Witcher* series. The game is currently in full-scale production, with over 400 developers involved in its development.
- *Project Sirius*: This project is a spin-off title set in *The Witcher* universe, developed by The Molasses Flood. *Project Sirius* aims to offer a different kind of *Witcher* experience, with a focus on multiplayer gameplay and a broader audience.
- *The Witcher Remake*: CDPR is also working on a remake of the original *The Witcher* game, built from the ground up in Unreal Engine 5. This remake aims to bring the classic RPG to a new generation of players while retaining its unique atmosphere and storytelling.
CDPR’s commitment to quality and innovation is evident in its ambitious roadmap. The company is not only focused on creating new games but also on expanding its existing franchises and exploring new genres.
Financial Implications and Future Growth
The financial report for the first quarter of 2025 reveals a solid performance by CD Projekt Red. The company’s total revenue reached approximately $60 million, with *Cyberpunk 2077* and *Phantom Liberty* being the primary sources of income. The net profit for the quarter amounted to around $23 million.
CDPR’s strong financial position allows the company to invest heavily in its future projects. The development expenditures have increased significantly, mainly due to *The Witcher 4*, *Project Sirius*, and *Cyberpunk 2*. The company also has a substantial cash reserve, providing financial stability and flexibility.
Looking ahead, CDPR aims to continue growing its franchises and expanding its reach. The company’s strategic partnership with Scopely to develop a game within one of its IPs indicates future growth opportunities in the mobile gaming market. CDPR is also exploring the use of generative AI tools in development, although legal and IP concerns remain a limiting factor.
Conclusion: A Bright Future for Night City and Beyond
*Cyberpunk 2077: Phantom Liberty*’s success is a remarkable achievement, demonstrating CDPR’s ability to overcome adversity and deliver a high-quality gaming experience. The expansion has not only revitalized *Cyberpunk 2077* but has also reaffirmed CDPR’s position as one of the leading game developers in the world.
With *Cyberpunk 2* in pre-production and *The Witcher 4* in full-scale development, the future looks bright for CDPR and its fans. The company’s commitment to quality, innovation, and its ability to learn from past mistakes position them for continued success in the years to come. Night City has found its footing, and the world of gaming eagerly awaits the next chapter.