Cyberpunk 2077: Project Orion Can't Retreat from One Key Phantom Liberty Feature

When Cyberpunk 2077 first launched, it was as broken as the relic chip embedded in its main character’s brain. Yet, despite a rocky start, the game eventually rose to meet the lofty expectations many players had prior to its release, thanks to a series of post-launch patches. The pinnacle of these improvements came with the release of Update 2.0 and the Phantom Liberty DLC. This content not only introduced a gripping new espionage story but also revamped many core gameplay mechanics, giving players even more control over their version of V.

As CD Projekt Red gears up for the sequel, currently code-named Project Orion, there are valuable lessons they can draw from the successes of Update 2.0 and Phantom Liberty. While some changes, like the reworked clothing system, may not need to carry over, one key feature from the DLC absolutely should: relic points.

Why Relic Points are Essential in Cyberpunk 2077

One of the most significant additions in Phantom Liberty was the relic point system, which, unlike other updates, was only accessible to players who ventured into the gritty depths of Dogtown. By locating Militech data terminals scattered across this dangerous zone, players could earn relic points and use them to unlock a new skill tree tied to V's biochip.

These relic points were more than just another progression system—they were intricately woven into Cyberpunk 2077's narrative. The upgrades they provided gave V unprecedented power, far beyond what was possible before. Players could modify their already lethal cyberware, highlight enemy weak spots for devastating critical hits, use optical camouflage in combat, and more. The system didn’t just feel like a collection of minor perks; it offered meaningful improvements that enhanced both combat and customization, adding depth to the overall gameplay experience.

A Relic-Driven Power Fantasy in Night City

Whether or not V returns as the protagonist in Project Orion, CD Projekt Red needs to preserve the relic point system. In many sequels, it’s common for developers to reset a character’s abilities to maintain a sense of progression, as seen in games like Assassin’s Creed: Brotherhood. This approach allows designers to create a natural power curve, but it often frustrates players who feel like all their hard-earned progress from the previous game is wiped out.

Instead of stripping V—or a new protagonist—of the powers gained in Phantom Liberty, Project Orion should lean into the power fantasy that relic points offer. Starting the next game with many of the abilities from Cyberpunk 2077 and building on them would provide a richer experience, making players feel more empowered right from the start. While this might seem challenging to balance, the Cyberpsychosis mechanic from Cyberpunk: Edgerunners could be a clever way to regulate overpowered builds while still encouraging players to manage their upgrades wisely.

Even if Project Orion introduces a new lead character, relic points—or a revamped version of them—should still be included. The powers they granted were crucial to Phantom Liberty’s fluid and frenetic gameplay. Moreover, they gave players a compelling reason to fully explore the beautifully detailed world of Night City, adding another layer of engagement to the experience. Ignoring the value relic points brought to Cyberpunk 2077 would be a missed opportunity, especially as CD Projekt Red determines which features should carry over to their next ambitious title.

By keeping relic points, Project Orion can build on the strengths of its predecessor while giving players the freedom to continue crafting their ultimate version of V—or whoever the next protagonist may be.