Igor Sarzynski, Creative Director of Cyberpunk 2, discussed the sequel's creative direction in episode 33 of CDPR's official podcast, AnsweRED. He stated that the team is consciously examining real life, aiming for the game to address current issues while providing entertainment.
Sarzynski believes that people are already living in a cyberpunk-like reality to some extent, with most relevant elements already present; cybernetic implants seem to be the exception, though this is debatable. He stated that the team does not want the new title to be preachy or convey overly explicit messages, but hopes it can engage in dialogue with real-life issues.
Game Director Gabe Amatangelo added that the team is still seeking a balance between pure entertainment and deeper expression. In his view, good entertainment should both engage players and provoke thought.
Amatangielo mentioned that two weeks ago, while refueling at a Shell gas station near the Boston studio, he was recognized by the cashier due to his Cyberpunk-themed T-shirt, sparking a conversation about the game. The cashier said they had played Cyberpunk 2077 but found its multiple endings rather bleak, expressing a desire for a more traditional happy ending.
In response, Amatangelo said, "Welcome to Night City, where there are no happy endings." He explained that the ending design of Cyberpunk 2077 was intentional, aiming for players to reflect after experiencing the story, rather than simply providing a perfect ending that meets player expectations.
Previously, the CDPR development team emphasized multiple times that the core of Cyberpunk 2077 was not simply distinguishing between good and evil, but rather presenting choices filled with moral gray areas, forcing players to confront complex human nature and realistic problems. Judging from Amatangelo's response, Cyberpunk 2 may retain the realistic and somber narrative tone characteristic of the Night City series. However, he also stressed that Cyberpunk 2 will not simply replicate its predecessor.
Cyberpunk 2 is currently in pre-production, led by Amatangelo and Sarzynski at CDPR's North American office.