There's no doubt that Cyberpunk 2077 is one of the most ambitious video games of all time! While it suffered launch disaster, It sets new standards with the freedom of choice, excellent presentation, and gameplay that can be as pacifistic or as violent as you want to. But before you start playing, there are so many ways to immerse yourself deeper in its rich world. Doing these ten things will fully prepare you for Cyberpunk 2077, making your experience much better!
10. Buy Merch
Cyberpunk 2077 looks awesome and there's plenty of it
Even before the game release, CD Projekt RED introduced the official Cyberpunk 2077 merch. There's something for everyone here, including shirts, hoodies, jackets, gym bags, caps, mugs, figures, and so much more. A licensed merch does help the sense of immersion, and admit it or not, it's hard to resist it! Plus, the quality is excellent!
Luckily, the prices are fair, so you probably can afford a thing or two. CD Projekt Red is saving your money anyway, as all Cyberpunk 2077 DLCs will be free. Most other companies would probably ask tens of bucks for it, but we would rather spend cash on that cool Samurai bomber jacket... or at least, socks. Socks are good too.
9. Upgrade Your PC or Console
You won't make a mistake by playing on Xbox Series X or PlayStation 5
Cyberpunk 2077 engine is capable of using every ounce of power available, so you should be prepared. If you want to experience it the right way on PC, you'll need a fast CPU, at least 16 GB RAM, and ideally, a GPU with ray tracing support. Of course, the game will work on lesser systems, but the dirty streets of Night City won't look so lovely!
Even if you're playing on consoles, you also need to think about the upgrade! Playing on basic PS4 or Xbox One is the cheapest solution, but PS4 Pro and Xbox One X will offer a better experience. However, for ray tracing, more details, higher resolutions, and super-fast loading, PS5 or Xbox Series X are essential.
8. Choose Which Version To Buy
Cyberpunk 2077 Deluxe Edition is pretty expensive, but we want it!
The good news is that Cyberpunk 2077 doesn't have a digital deluxe version. This means that whatever edition you buy, you'll have the same in-game content. Gamers can choose from only two versions of the game – standard and Collector's Edition. The standard edition comes with no bonuses unless you've preordered it. A preorder may contain both digital and physical goodies, including the game soundtrack, postcards, stickers, or Night City map.
The collector's edition is a real beast with a $250 price tag. Despite this, the initial shipment quickly sold out! This version comes with a 10-inch statue of the main protagonist, stickers, maps, postcards, books, and some digital bonuses. Is it worth it? That's for you to decide!
7. Play Relevant Games
Deus Ex is the first game in the series, but play any of it
While the world of Cyberpunk 2077 is unique, of course, it still shares a lot with other cyberpunk inspired games. To get a better perception of its atmosphere, you can play some excellent titles, including the Syndicate reboot, SiN, Ion Fury, Shadowrun Returns, Blade Runner (remastered version), or even Hideo Kojima's old masterpieces, Snatcher and Policenauts. However, our top advice is to experience the Deus Ex series, especially the first game, which seems similar to Cyberpunk 2077.
Also, we recommend playing The Witcher 3 and its expansions. While this might look like a strange suggestion, there's no doubt that the developers are using the experience from this project for Cyberpunk 2077. Plus, this is still a fantastic game that stays relevant thanks to mods and the official remaster for PC, PS5, and Xbox Series X. Oh, and skip anything related to Shadowrun, as unlike Cyberpunk 2077, it features supernatural beings. Great games, but the vibe is totally different.
6. Read Books
The World of Cyberpunk 2077 contains no spoilers, so you can read it before playing the game
There are plenty of excellent cyberpunk books, but everyone should start with a classic – Neuromancer. The same goes for Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep. This book inspired Blade Runner movies, and like Cyberpunk 2077, it deals with the loss of humanity in a society obsessed with technology. Snow Crash and Mirrorshades: The Cyberpunk Anthology are also excellent choices. If you're into manga, Akira and Ghost in the Shell should be on top of your list. Even though both decades old, they haven't lost anything of its appeal.
Cyberpunk 2077 also has official book releases, including the excellent The World of Cyberpunk. This is not a guide, but the overlook of the Night City and people living in it. Of course, it's spoiler-free too! Although, skip the deluxe version, as it's costly while offering disappointing bonuses. You could buy at least two official t-shirts and mug for the price difference!
5. Watch Movies & Shows
Altered Carbon has many Cyberpunk 2077 elements
If you haven't watched Blade Runner, or haven't done that recently, do it now! There are more than a couple of versions available, but The Final Cut is what you need. Also, don't miss its sequel, Blade Runner 2049, which is even better! As for other classics, the first Matrix, Ghost in the Shell, and Akira are essential choices.
Netflix series Altered Carbon is also an excellent choice. Set in a dirty, dystopian metropolis, it deals with everything associated with cyberpunk. As the show has only two seasons (and an anime prequel), you can watch it pretty quickly.
4. Play Cyberpunk 2020
Cyberpunk 2077 is based on Cyberpunk 2020 tabletop RPG
Cyberpunk 2020 is an excellent tabletop RPG, and what makes it even more attractive is that the Cyberpunk 2077 is its official sequel! This means that many elements of Cyberpunk 2020 will be in the game. While Cyberpunk 2077 doesn't require players to know anything before playing, Cyberpunk 2020 will help you better understand it.
You're not required to purchase a physical copy and beg your friends to play with you. You can join a massive online community and start learning about this fascinating world and its characters. You'll be surprised by how many gameplay elements from the tabletop have translated into the video game.
3. Let the Music Set You in the Mood
George Michael's "Freeek" video still looks gorgeous
Way before the game release, CD Projekt RED revealed that like GTA, the game will have several stations that will feature music from established artists. Grimes, A$AP Rocky, Run the Jewels, Nina Kravitz, and many others have all recorded music for Cyberpunk 2077.
You can go beyond the official soundtrack and listen to other music that perfectly fits into this universe. You'll be good with anything synth-wave, but never forget the perfection that was George Michael's song and the video for "Freeek! "
2. Watch Night City Wire
Learn more about the game, but without spoilers
Once the game is out, all previews become pretty much obsolete. Still, Night City Wire is a lot different. The episodic content comes directly from CD Projekt RED and dissects many elements of Cyberpunk 2077. There's no better way to understand this game than to listen to what people that made it have to say about it.
These are all perfectly produced videos that will further motivate you to play and give you ideas about what to try once inside Night City. No matter how much time you spend gaming, there will always be some elements that you'll miss. The Night City Wire is here to help you dive even deeper inside the game's world.
1. Create Your Character
You may spend hours creating characters
The main protagonist in Cyberpunk 2077 has a fixed name, but you can modify everything else, as the customization system is complex, with over 250 options. Creating a character has a significant impact on gameplay, as all classes have unique prologues and different dialogue options. Also, think about how you would distribute your skill points. Would you rather be a silent hacker or someone who can take on a bunch of dangerous thugs?
Of course, think about the appearance of your character. It's possible to create yourself, Demi Lovato, or someone totally unique. And oh, you can also define your genitalia, which will determine your romance options. They thought about everything!
Cyberpunk 2077 is a game that you'll spend hundreds of hours before seeing everything it offers. Following all these steps will fully prepare you for its charming but dangerous world and let you enjoy it in the best possible way. Of course, our top ten list is also spoiler-free, so everything you experience in-game will still feel fresh!
On what system you're going to play Cyberpunk 2077, and what kind of character you'll create? Tell us in the comments below!
Cover photo: TopTens.fun