Big news for fans of Cyberpunk 2077: the sequel, known internally as Project Orion, is reportedly sticking with the first-person viewpoint that became a standout feature of the original game. When CD Projekt Red (CDPR) initially announced this choice for Cyberpunk 2077, some fans were skeptical, but the perspective ultimately won them over, enhancing the game’s immersive experience.
Although Project Orion won’t arrive any time soon—expecting a release in the late 2020s—it’s clear from recent job postings that CDPR is actively laying the groundwork. In fact, a listing discovered by a Reddit user from CDPR’s Boston office calls for a senior gameplay animator to craft first-person experiences, suggesting that this perspective will once again be central to the gameplay.
Way back in E3 2018, when first announced, the decision to present Cyberpunk 2077 in first-person raised eyebrows among fans. Some questioned the loss of a broader third-person view, but CDPR stood by its choice. Looking back, it’s easy to see why: the first-person view didn’t just feel right; it added depth and intensity, making players feel truly part of Night City. It allowed the narrative and visual details to shine through in a way that a third-person view might have missed, making every dialogue and encounter feel intimate and vibrant.
As Cyberpunk 2077 has sold 30 million copies by the end of 2024, it’s no wonder CDPR is betting on the same formula for Project Orion. While the sequel is expected to maintain the first-person perspective, it might again offer players a third-person view for driving sections, just like its predecessor.
There’s a strong indication that Project Orion won’t hit current consoles like the PS5 or Xbox Series X/S. Early development phases only recently began post-2022, and it’s following behind the production of The Witcher 4, known as Project Polaris, which started full development in late 2024. Given these timelines, Orion likely won’t launch until the late 2020s or early 2030s, meaning it might debut on next-generation consoles expected around then.
What remains to be seen is how Project Orion will carve out its own identity while building on the success of Cyberpunk 2077. Yet, considering CDPR’s commitment to innovative and immersive experiences, there’s every reason to keep an eye on how this sequel unfolds.