Cyberpunk 2077’s Phantom Liberty DLC has been a game-changer for CD Projekt Red, with senior quest designer Paweł Sasko attributing its success to the base game’s initial negative reception. Sasko revealed that the drastic changes made to the production style for Phantom Liberty were only possible because of the critical feedback received by the original Cyberpunk 2077 release in 2020.

Speaking to TheGamer at Gamescom Latam, Sasko emphasized that the negative reception of Cyberpunk 2077 prompted a complete overhaul in the production approach, leading to the improved launch of Phantom Liberty. This transformation not only impacted Sasko personally but also influenced the entire studio, marking a significant shift in their development process.

After facing a tumultuous journey following its troubled debut in December 2020, Cyberpunk 2077 has seen numerous updates and the release of the Phantom Liberty expansion last year. However, CD Projekt Red has now entirely shifted its focus away from the game, with no team members currently dedicated to Cyberpunk 2077.

As of February 29th this year, only 17 individuals were still working on the game, a number that dwindled to zero by April 30th. This transition signifies a pivotal moment for CD Projekt Red as they move forward with their next project, rumored to be a new installment in The Witcher series under the codename Polaris.

The legacy of Cyberpunk 2077 continues to evolve, with the lessons learned from its turbulent history shaping the future endeavors of CD Projekt Red. The journey from the game’s troubled launch to the success of Phantom Liberty serves as a testament to the resilience and adaptability of the studio in response to feedback and challenges.