CD Projekt Red’s Cyberpunk 2077 is something special, but fans of the open-world RPG have a few other games they should check out.
Cyberpunk 2077 launched in 2020, and CD Projekt Red’s sci-fi open-world RPG was met with a mixed reception. A lot of the criticism stemmed from the game’s poor state on last-generation hardware, along with a handful of missing features; since then, the developer released a few updates and a major expansion that succeeded in turning around Cyberpunk 2077’s reputation. In the game, gang wars, corporation wars, and robotics have merged with every aspect of daily life. This title was, by no means, the first to show off this kind of setting.
From Deus Ex to Shadowrun, there are plenty of projects out there that trade in futurism, neurotechnology, and capitalist intrigue. Then there are cyberpunk adjacent games like Metal Gear Solid or Killzone. While these titles include elements of cyberpunk, they don’t give gamers the full experience.
What are the best games like Cyberpunk 2077 that fans need to play?
While cyberpunk-themed games will be prioritized, the selection will not be limited to that sub-genre. Also, The Witcher 3 has been omitted since it is too obvious.
Updated November 18, 2023: With the release of the Phantom Liberty expansion and its 2.0 update, Cyberpunk 2077 has completed its redemption arc. At this point, CD Projekt Red should generally be done tinkering with its sci-fi RPG, permitting the developer to focus on other highly-anticipated projects that are in the pipeline. Currently, Cyberpunk 2077’s future as a franchise looks good since a sequel is reportedly in development, although years are likely to pass before any significant information drops regarding Project Orion. In the meantime, fans should check out some great games like Cyberpunk 2077. 17 The Ascent
The Ascent is a top-down cooperative shooter rooted heavily in a cyberpunk theme. The gameplay is a bit hectic at times, with heavy action and shooting elements blended together with RPG mechanics that will let players customize their own characters.
They are skills to unlock and cyberwear to wield that can help reshape how a character plays to better suit a specific play style. Those looking to immerse themselves in another cyberpunk-inspired world after Cyberpunk 2077 will find a lot of visual beauty here. 16 Dishonored 2
Although it’s not nearly as futuristic and cyberpunk-inspired as Cyberpunk 2077, Dishonored 2 offers players a lot of entertainment via similar gameplay mechanics. Much like Cyberpunk 2077, players will be able to build their character as they see fit, unlocking skills and abilities that adhere to their own personal play style.
Dishonored is mission-based but does offer some explorative moments, allowing gamers to tackle each level as they see fit, deciding whether to do things in a stealthy manner or simply lay waste to their enemies by overpowering them with weapons and magic-like abilities. 15 Far Cry 3: Blood Dragon
Despite a lukewarm response to recent Far Cry games, Far Cry 3: Blood Dragon broke the mold in terms of visuals. The game offers a simple plot: «get the girl, kill the baddies, and save the world.» More importantly, Blood Dragon delivers frenzied combat action and pretty-to-look-at lasers to boot.
Though it doesn’t pose questions about corporations or robotics, it does make players feel like a hero out of a cheesy ’80s flick. Blood Dragon is a bit on the short side, which might be a nice refresher after Cyberpunk 2077and its 40+ hours of gameplay. 14 System Shock 2
This game and its predecessor are basically cyberpunk royalty. The 1999 ARPG incorporated horror elements into its cyberpunk setting aboard a starship in 2114. System Shock featured elements such as hacking, FPS combat, and puzzles. The game also makes use of implants and upgrades to unlock different abilities including psionics.
Players will never forget the murderous AI SHODAN, who wanted to kill everyone from the first game. The second game has a Russian oligarch resurrect the company that led to SHODAN’s creation and is now testing an FTL starship. Unsurprisingly, SHODAN makes a comeback despite the presence of aliens(?), as well. Though old, System Shock 2 is a must-play for fans of the cyberpunk genre. 13 Cloudpunk
Cloudpunk has two rules: don’t deliver late and DO NOT ask what’s in the box. While the game is more like a walking simulator, the setting, voice acting, and sound design are top-notch. Cloudpunk also offers customization options for the HOVA on top of improvements like bumpers.
