Cyberpunk 2077: Update 2.0 Overview
Sep. 22, 2023Cyberpunk 2077: Update 2.0 Overview
In thisCyberpunk 2077: Update 2.0overview we are going to be taking a look at the free content update that CD Project Red just released for the game. This update is available for all PC users and next gen consoles (excluding last generation), regardless if they acquired thePhantom LibertyDLC or not.
The most noticeable change of this update is the complete overhaul of the Cyberpunk 2077Perksystem, which replaces almost all previous perks for new ones. Each Attribute Perk tree is focused around a certain playstyle, and you’ll need to commit a certain amount of points to unlock each Tier.
TheBodytree is primarily focused on enhancing close-quarters combat and Heavy hitting weapons such asLMGs,ShotgunsandHMGs, maximizing benefits as stamina decreases, and optimizing health regeneration during combat. Ideal for players who want to engage enemies up close, be it with heavy firearms or blunt weapons, while being able to sustain themselves in prolonged fights.
TheReflexskill tree is tailored for players who value dynamic combat, blending agile movements withBlade,Assault RifleandSMGs weapon handling. It’s designed for those who enjoy a mix of shooting and melee combat, with a particular emphasis on using blades effectively.
I personally love the Dash mechanic and midair maneuverability, and I’m sure most users will end up adding them to their build regardless of their main attribute choice.
The Technical Ability skill tree provides a mix of improved health recovery, enhanced explosive usage, and better utilization of tech weapons and cyberware. Ideal for players who lean towards a more technological approach in combat and want to maximize their cyberware.
Most builds can take advantage of the Cyberware enhancements, so just as with the Reflexes Tree, I see most users assigning enough points to unlock the upgraded stats and modifiers.
TheCoolskill tree enhances stealth abilities while also providing a massive boost to Throwable Weapons allowing you to become a real ninja. On the other hand, it also enhances Snipers and Pistols, allowing you to take out enemies from great distance.
TheIntelligenceskill tree is designed for players who prioritize hacking,Quickhackusage, and maximizing the potential ofSmart Weapons. It provides tools for both offensive and defensive hacking, making it ideal for players who enjoy netrunner gameplay.
I really like the changes toPerks, as it makes it much easier to know which stat you’ll want to max out based on your playstyle, but on the other hand you’ll probably be stuck with a particular playstyle based on your attribute investment.
There’s also a new “Skill Progression” system, divided into 5 differentSkills. Each skill passively levels up as you perform actions related to that skill, for example you’ll level upNetrunnerby hacking or by deploying quickhacks or you’ll level up Shinobi by dashing or performing stealth actions. When you reach certain level thresholds, you’ll unlock powerful passive bonuses, including even Perk Points.
TheCyberwaresystem has been completely revamped and you’ll now have a Cyberware Capacity Limit that restricts the amount of cyberware your body can handle. This limit increases with level, by acquiring Cyberware Capacity Shards, or by unlocking some specific perks.
Cyberware slots have been re-adjusted and some of the categories renamed. Another big change is that Armor is now provided by the Cyberware instead of your clothing, which now mainly plays an aesthetic role, only providing small random stats.
These changes in combination with the Perk system made me feel like I was getting stronger as I progressed through the story giving me a real sense of progression that was somewhat lacking in the original release.
Another new addition to the 2.0 patch is vehicle combat. Now, players can draw their weapons and fire while driving, or even utilize mounted car weapons. This leads to thrilling chases against both the police and local gangs.
To deal with enemy vehicles, players can deploy the newly introduced vehicle Quickhacks. These allow you to compromise the control over enemy vehicles, frequently resulting in their demise.
Additionally, a significant enhancement toQuickhacksis the ability to queue multiple hacks against a single target. Quickhacks activate in order of upload, and you’ll be able to use your HP as an additional RAM resource when cyberdeck RAM is depleted. This offers the opportunity for intricate combo chains and encourages the use of quickhacks that might have previously been overlooked.
The UI has been revamped, allowing you to quickly access any category in a couple of clicks. I personally got used to the changes in a couple of minutes and I find it easier than ever to jump exactly to whatever I need to check.
The Cyberware interface has been revamped as well, displaying each category and the amount of available slots which is much easier to read. When visiting the ripperdoc you’ll get to see an X-Ray of the implant that you are getting before placing it, and an animation with sounds which really helps with immersion.
MostWeaponshave had balance changes that allow for a wider range of playstyles. I found myself checking on each new Iconic Weapon I found to see what type of build I could come up with.
UsableConsumablessuch as Inhaler andGrenadesnow have a fixed amount of uses that will regenerate over time, so you’ll only need to have 1 in your inventory instead of having to restock all the time.
One time consumables now provide better bonuses, with the addition ofIconic Consumablesthat provide you with a permanent boost to your character when consuming them (most of these can be purchased from vendors).
Crafting has simplified, and it’s no longer tied to skills or perks. You can now craft any item regardless of its rarity. You can also upgraded any Iconic Weapon as long as you have the necessary components, making it a lot easier to keep using your previously found Weapons.
The first thing I noticed when I jumped into a fight is the change to Stamina. Stamina now depletes while firing weapons or while evading, instead of while running. If you run out of stamina, your accuracy will be greatly reduced, which made combat more engaging instead of just holding left click and killing everything.
The combat AI has been improved, and the Police System has been completely overhauled. Police will now respond in a more realistic way, depending on the district you are currently in and the severity of your crimes. If you kill someone in a rich district, the police will show up almost immediately, while in lower density districts it might take a while until they show up.
The response force will also be related to your current wanted level, and the police will chase you withCarsand even put obstacles and barricades, creating some epic pursuits thanks to the vehicle combat system. As usual, you will eventually have to deal with MaxTac, which feels more powerful than ever.
If you enjoyed our Cyberpunk 2077 update be sure to check out our Phantom Liberty review. You can also drop by our CP2077 for all the latest onSkills,Weapons,Arms Cyberwareand more!
Castielle
Senior Editor at Fextralife. I enjoy gaming, playing and watching sports, cooking yummy food, watching a good movie and hanging out with Fex.
