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CD Projekt Red Confirms Progress in Cyberpunk 2's Development Cycle
CD Projekt Red, the renowned game development studio behind some of the gaming industry's biggest hits, has officially announced a significant development milestone for the highly anticipated sequel to Cyberpunk 2077. The project, currently operating under the codename "Project Orion" and commonly referred to as Cyberpunk 2, has now moved from the conceptual design stage into full pre-production.
Project Orion: Collaboration Across North America
According to recent financial disclosures for the first quarter of the 2025 fiscal year, CD Projekt Red has successfully completed the conceptual phase for Cyberpunk 2. This next step in development is being spearheaded by the studio's North American teams, with prominent operations in Boston and Vancouver. The move to pre-production signals a deepened commitment to expanding the critically acclaimed Cyberpunk universe, harnessing advanced technologies and industry-leading design processes.
Phantom Liberty Expansion Delivers Record Sales
While spotlighting its latest advancements, CD Projekt Red also revealed that the Phantom Liberty expansion for Cyberpunk 2077 has surpassed an impressive 10 million copies sold worldwide. Building on this momentum, the studio plans to release Cyberpunk 2077: Ultimate Edition, which will incorporate the Phantom Liberty DLC, for the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2 console. The Ultimate Edition is scheduled to launch as a day-one title on June 5, 2025, marking CD Projekt Red's first ever simultaneous release with a new generation gaming console.
Industry Impact and Market Relevance
These developments underline CD Projekt Red's commitment to delivering high-quality open-world gaming experiences. The Nintendo Switch 2's introduction to the Cyberpunk universe is expected to significantly expand the game's audience, thanks to the console's anticipated portability and improved performance. Positive feedback from both the gaming community and media at global Nintendo events has reinforced optimism within the studio regarding the franchise's future.
New Features and Expanding the Cyberpunk World
According to statements from studio co-CEO Michał Nowakowski, the continued success of the Cyberpunk series has paved the way for even more ambitious world-building in Cyberpunk 2. Notably, Mike Pondsmith, creator of the original Cyberpunk franchise, recently shared that the sequel will not only return players to the iconic Night City but will also introduce a brand-new location modeled after a "ruined Chicago." Although Pondsmith will have a less hands-on role this time, he remains closely involved in monitoring the project's development, reflecting the studio's dedication to authenticity and innovation.
The Witcher 3's Enduring Legacy
In related news, CD Projekt Red's other flagship title, The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt, has now cemented its legacy as one of the best-selling video games in history, having sold over 60 million copies worldwide. This achievement further solidifies the company's reputation for creating long-lasting, influential gaming experiences.
Conclusion: Anticipating the Next Big Leap in Open-World Gaming
As Cyberpunk 2 advances through pre-production, CD Projekt Red continues to set industry standards in innovative game development, player engagement, and franchise expansion. With cutting-edge features, cross-generational support, and an ever-expanding universe, the next chapter in the Cyberpunk saga is poised to capture the imaginations of tech enthusiasts and gamers around the world.
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