No More Euro Manholes! Cyberpunk Sequel Aims for Deeper American Experience. Discover how CD Projekt Red is addressing cultural inconsistencies in the next Cyberpunk game.
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| Cyberpunk Sequel Focuses on American Identity. The growing trend of cultural accuracy in gaming and it's shaping the Cyberpunk sequel. |
CD Projekt Red (CDPR), the developers behind the cyberpunk RPG sensation Cyberpunk 2077, is taking a fresh approach to its American setting in the upcoming sequel. While the original game delivered a visually stunning Night City, set in California, some aspects felt incongruent with American culture. This realization is prompting a shift towards a more authentic portrayal of the United States in the sequel.
From the "Manhole Debacle"
One of the key takeaways from Cyberpunk 2077 for CDPR is the importance of cultural nuance. A seemingly minor detail – the design of manhole covers – sparked the now-famous "manhole debacle." Night City's European-style manhole covers stood out in a Californian cityscape. This, along with other discrepancies like streetlights, garbage bin placement, and signage color, subtly undermined the immersion for players familiar with American infrastructure.
Associate game director Paweł Sasko acknowledges the limitations of the first game. He emphasizes the desire to incorporate more than just visual cues in the sequel. Sasko talks about embracing "American cultural touchpoints," including movies, music, and the broader influence of Hollywood. This suggests a deeper dive into American pop culture, potentially influencing everything from character interactions and side quests to the overall atmosphere of the game.
The Boston Connection: A Bridge Across the Atlantic
To achieve a more authentic American experience, CDPR has established a new studio in Boston. This studio will collaborate with the main development team, offering valuable insights from a geographically and culturally closer perspective. The inclusion of American developers familiar with the nuances of American life is a strategic move to ensure the sequel resonates more effectively with a core player base.
CDPR's focus on cultural accuracy reflects a broader trend in game development. Gamers are becoming increasingly invested in the details and internal consistency of fictional worlds. Developers are responding by crafting more immersive experiences that transcend visuals and mechanics. By incorporating cultural elements that resonate with players on a deeper level, developers can foster a stronger sense of connection and engagement.
A More Immersive Night City Awaits
The emphasis on American authenticity in the Cyberpunk 2077 sequel holds promise for a richer and more immersive experience. Players can expect a Night City that not only looks American but also feels American, with subtle nods to American culture woven into the narrative, environments, and character interactions. This focus on detail reflects CDPR's commitment to learning from past experiences and creating a truly captivating world for players to explore.
Whether the developers can successfully capture the essence of American culture within a futuristic setting remains to be seen. However, this renewed focus on authenticity is a welcome step forward, raising the bar for cultural immersion in the gaming world.