CD Projekt Red appears to be reviving multiplayer plans for Cyberpunk 2, the highly anticipated sequel to Cyberpunk 2077. A new job posting by CD Projekt Red strongly implies that online multiplayer will be a part of Cyberpunk 2, with the description specifically stating that the employee will “lead [their] team to develop and optimize multiplayer systems, including matchmaking.”
Table of Contents
Job Listing Reveals Multiplayer Focus
| Position Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Role | Online Systems Engineer |
| Responsibilities | Develop and optimize multiplayer systems |
| Key Features | Matchmaking systems implementation |
| Project | Cyberpunk 2 (Project Orion) |
| Studio Location | Boston, USA (primary development) |
Return of Abandoned Plans
Originally, Cyberpunk 2077 was supposed to feature its own standalone multiplayer component, but CD PROJEKT RED decided to reconsider its multiplayer strategy just a few months after the game’s December 2020 release, effectively delaying it so that it might be applied to future projects instead.
The decision to cancel Cyberpunk 2077’s multiplayer made sense given the game’s turbulent launch and the studio’s need to focus on fixing core single-player issues. However, Project Orion, the codename for the sequel to Cyberpunk 2077, ramped up development in 2024 at CD Projekt Red’s new studio in Boston, USA.
Development Context & Timeline
CD Projekt Red’s upcoming Cyberpunk 2077 sequel may be very early in development, but the upcoming open-world RPG sequel appears to have some form of multiplayer component in the works. Currently without a release date, Cyberpunk 2 won’t launch until after The Witcher 4 which isn’t expected for several years.
This timeline suggests Cyberpunk 2 is still in early development phases, allowing the team to properly integrate multiplayer features from the ground up rather than retrofitting them later.
What Multiplayer Could Mean
The job listing references “high-performance online experiences” and “robust online modes,” suggesting CD Projekt Red is planning substantial multiplayer integration rather than simple co-op features. Potential implementations could include:
- Cooperative Campaign: Shared Night City exploration with friends
- Competitive Modes: PvP combat in cyberpunk settings
- MMO Elements: Persistent online world with multiple players
- Heist Missions: Team-based objective gameplay
Industry Context
The multiplayer revival aligns with broader gaming industry trends toward live service and online components in single-player franchises. Games like Elden Ring and recent Assassin’s Creed titles have successfully integrated multiplayer elements while maintaining strong single-player experiences.
For gamers following AAA game development trends, CD Projekt Red’s multiplayer pivot represents a significant strategic shift for a studio traditionally focused on single-player RPGs.
Cautious Optimism Required
Given Cyberpunk 2077’s launch challenges, CD Projekt Red faces heightened scrutiny for any ambitious features. The studio’s commitment to proper development timelines and thorough testing will be crucial for multiplayer success.
CD Projekt Red recently confirmed they are not announcing new Cyberpunk 2077 DLC or addressing updates about the game’s upcoming sequel, suggesting the studio is maintaining realistic communication about development progress.
FAQs
Will Cyberpunk 2’s multiplayer be mandatory or optional?
Details aren’t confirmed, but given the job listing focus on matchmaking systems, multiplayer will likely be a distinct mode separate from single-player campaign experiences.
When can we expect more official information about Cyberpunk 2?
With development still in early phases and The Witcher 4 taking priority, official Cyberpunk 2 details likely won’t emerge until 2026 or later.
