"Project Orion: Night City and a Twisted Chicago, Teases Mike Pondsmith"

CD Projekt's Cyberpunk 2077 sequel, codenamed Project Orion, remains shrouded in mystery, but Cyberpunk creator Mike Pondsmith has tantalizingly revealed some new details. Pondsmith, who collaborated closely with CD Projekt on the blockbuster Cyberpunk 2077 and played a significant role in its promotion leading up to its 2020 release, shared insights into his involvement with Project Orion during the Digital Dragons 2025 conference.

Pondsmith mentioned that while he isn't as deeply involved this time, he does review scripts and has visited CD Projekt to observe the ongoing development. He recounted a recent visit where he interacted with various departments and offered feedback on elements like the new cyberware.

The most intriguing revelation was about the sequel's setting: Project Orion will introduce a brand new city alongside the familiar Night City from Cyberpunk 2077. Pondsmith likened this new city to "Chicago gone wrong," suggesting a dystopian atmosphere distinct from the Blade Runner-esque feel of Night City. He emphasized that this new city evokes a different, gritty urban vibe.

It's important to clarify that Pondsmith's comments hint at a city with a Chicago-like feel rather than confirming a futuristic Chicago setting. There's ongoing speculation about whether the sequel will expand on the existing Night City or introduce an entirely new version, and how much of these cities will be playable. The possibility of two fully realized cities in the sequel adds an exciting layer of anticipation.

Every CD Projekt Red Game In Development

View 8 ImagesWhile CD Projekt's primary focus is currently on The Witcher 4, they have established a new studio in Boston dedicated to Project Orion. Earlier this year, CD Projekt disclosed that 84 out of their 707 staff members are working on Project Orion, which is still in its conceptual stage. Given its early development, significant changes are likely, and fans should not expect the game to launch anytime soon.

Additionally, a new Cyberpunk animation project is in the works for Netflix, following the success of Cyberpunk: Edgerunners. In the near future, Cyberpunk 2077 is also slated to launch on the Nintendo Switch 2, further expanding its reach.