Cyberpunk 2077, developed by CD Projekt RED, has experienced a remarkable turnaround since its controversial launch. Now regarded as one of the most essential RPGs of the past decade, the game has steadily won over players worldwide thanks to continuous improvements and the successful release of the Phantom Liberty expansion. The recent free availability of Cyberpunk 2077 on PlayStation Plus Extra has further accelerated its popularity, driving significant sales growth for the Phantom Liberty add-on.
Cyberpunk 2077’s Journey to Redemption
When Cyberpunk 2077 initially launched, it faced widespread criticism due to technical issues and performance problems. However, CD Projekt RED did not stop working to improve the game. Through multiple patches and quality updates—including the highly praised Phantom Liberty expansion—the game has evolved into a much more polished and immersive experience. The expansion itself has been vital in cementing Cyberpunk 2077’s status as a modern gaming success story.
Impact of Cyberpunk 2077 Free Download on PlayStation Plus
Recently, Cyberpunk 2077 was made available on PlayStation Plus Extra, opening the doors to a fresh wave of players. Many gamers who had been hesitant to purchase the game previously took this opportunity to play risk-free, discovering that the game had significantly improved. This accessibility has proven to be a major boon for CD Projekt RED, not only enhancing the game’s player base but also amplifying interest in the Phantom Liberty expansion.
According to CD Projekt’s Q3 financial report, the availability of Cyberpunk 2077 through the PlayStation Plus subscription service played a crucial role in boosting sales. While the base game was accessible to subscribers, the Phantom Liberty expansion remained a separate paid purchase. This strategic move has encouraged new and returning players to invest further in the full Cyberpunk experience.
Co-CEO Michal Nowakowski highlighted this trend, stating, “Based on data from the first four months of the game’s availability to subscribers, we see that interest in the Cyberpunk franchise on PlayStation remains strong, and that the game continues to reach new groups of players on that platform.”
Similarly, CFO Piotr Nielubowicz noted, “We booked income attributable to introducing the base edition of Cyberpunk to PlayStation Plus Extra and Premium subscription services, as well as to sales of the Ultimate Edition of the game for Nintendo Switch 2 and Mac platforms. This has resulted in a more than twofold increase in revenues compared to Q3 2024, surpassing sales and profits from two years ago when Phantom Liberty launched.”
Looking Ahead: The Future of Cyberpunk 2077 and Its Sequel
With Cyberpunk 2077 now fulfilling much of its original potential, CD Projekt RED has already begun planning its sequel. However, fans should anticipate a wait, as the studio prioritizes the development of The Witcher 4 first. Despite this, Cyberpunk remains a key franchise for CD Projekt RED, and they are scaling their team to bring the next chapter to life.
Whether or not the sequel will return players to Night City remains unknown, but the current success of Cyberpunk 2077 and the Phantom Liberty expansion sets promising expectations. Fans can look forward to a new era of gameplay innovations and storytelling inspired by lessons learned from the original release.
Why Cyberpunk 2077 Is a Must-Play RPG
Cyberpunk 2077 delivers a rich blend of RPG and action elements powered by the REDengine 4. Set in a neon-lit, dystopian future, the game offers extensive character customization, an expansive open world, and deep narrative choices. Players engage with iconic characters like Johnny Silverhand while navigating the intricate underworld of Night City.
The game also features intense sequences, mature themes, and strong storytelling that have resonated with fans and critics alike. Its reemergence as a top-tier title is evident from critical reviews and player ratings that highlight its transformation from a troubled launch to a beloved franchise.
Conclusion
Cyberpunk 2077’s journey from a challenging launch to becoming a gaming phenomenon is marked by the dedication of CD Projekt RED and the enthusiastic support of its community. The free download on PlayStation Plus Extra has expanded its reach, while the Phantom Liberty expansion ensures players have even more exciting content to explore. With a sequel already in development, the future looks bright for Cyberpunk fans. Share your thoughts in the comments and explore more at keeperfacts.com.
