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Cyberpunk Sequel Officially Enters Early Development
CD Projekt Red has confirmed that Cyberpunk 2 (codenamed Orion) has moved into pre-production following Phantom Liberty's success. The expansion exceeded expectations, selling over 10 million copies since launch.
The studio's latest financial report reveals that 96 developers are currently assigned to Cyberpunk 2, while the majority (422) continue work on The Witcher 4. Both projects remain years away from release, but Orion has now transitioned from conceptual planning to active development.
A Glimpse Into Orion's World
Cyberpunk creator Mike Pondsmith recently shared intriguing details during Digital Dragons 2025. While less involved than with the original, Pondsmith confirmed reviewing scripts and visiting CD Projekt's studios to provide creative feedback.
"The team showed me their new cyberware designs," Pondsmith remarked. "Seeing their vision evolve has been fascinating." His most significant reveal: Orion will introduce a brand-new metropolis alongside Night City.
Describing this additional city as "Chicago gone wrong," Pondsmith emphasized its distinct identity: "It isn't Blade Runner—it's something grittier, more visceral." Importantly, this suggests thematic inspiration rather than literal adaptation.
What We Know About CD Projekt's Pipeline
The Polish studio maintains an ambitious slate:
- The Witcher 4 (Polaris) - Current priority with 422 developers
- Cyberpunk 2 (Orion) - 96 developers in pre-production
- Cyberpunk Live-Action Project - New Netflix collaboration following Edgerunners
- Cyberpunk 2077 Switch 2 Port - Launching next month
Key questions remain about Orion's scope—particularly whether Night City will receive expansions or a complete redesign. Pondsmith's comments hint at multiple fully realized urban environments, marking a potential evolution from the original's singular setting.
With Cyberpunk 2077's redemption arc complete, CD Projekt now focuses on delivering equally ambitious successors to both its flagship franchises.
