Introduction
Cyberpunk 2077 by CD Projekt Red had one of the most controversial launches in gaming history. However, years of updates and the Cyberpunk 2077: Phantom Liberty expansion have significantly improved the experience.
On PC, the game now represents its best version. Still, when judged by 2026 standards, it is important to look beyond its redemption arc and evaluate it critically.
📖 Story and Narrative
One of the Game’s Strongest Aspects
Cyberpunk 2077 tells the story of V, a mercenary navigating Night City while dealing with a digital consciousness in their mind.
Strengths
- Strong character writing
- Memorable side quests
- Emotional and mature themes
Weaknesses
- Main story is relatively short
- Some narrative choices have limited consequences
Verdict
- Writing: Excellent
- Player choice impact: Moderate
The storytelling remains one of the best parts of the experience.
🎮 Gameplay and Mechanics
Improved, But Not Perfect
The game features:
- First-person shooting
- RPG skill trees
- Cyberware upgrades
- Open-world exploration
Updates have improved combat and AI, but issues remain.
Key Problems
- Combat lacks depth compared to top-tier shooters
- AI behavior is still inconsistent
- Build variety exists but balance is uneven
Verdict
- Gameplay: Good
- Depth: Moderate
- Polish: Improved but imperfect
🖥️ PC Performance and Optimization
Best Platform for the Game
- High frame rates
- Ray tracing and path tracing
- DLSS and upscaling support
- Extensive graphics customization
Issues
- Requires high-end hardware for best experience
- Occasional bugs still present
Verdict
- Performance: Strong (on capable systems)
- Accessibility: Hardware-dependent
🌄 Graphics and World Design
Still Among the Best in the Industry
- Dense urban design
- Advanced lighting systems
- Strong environmental storytelling
However:
- Limited interactivity in the world
- NPC routines feel shallow compared to newer games
Verdict
- Visual quality: Excellent
- World interactivity: Limited
🌐 Open World and Activities
Style Over Substance
- Many activities feel repetitive
- Limited emergent gameplay
- Open world lacks systemic depth
Compared to newer RPGs, the world feels less dynamic.
🧠 RPG Systems and Progression
Better Than Launch, Still Uneven
- Skill trees are more meaningful after updates
- Cyberware system adds customization
However:
- Some builds are overpowered
- Progression balance is inconsistent
🌐 Replay Value
Replayability is moderate:
- Multiple builds and playstyles
- Different endings
However:
- Core story remains similar
- Limited variation in world interactions
📊 Pros and Cons
Pros
- Excellent storytelling and characters
- Stunning visuals on PC
- Improved gameplay systems
- Strong expansion content
Cons
- Inconsistent AI and combat depth
- Hardware demanding
- Open world lacks interactivity
- Some lingering bugs
🏁 Final Verdict
Is Cyberpunk 2077 Worth It on PC in 2026?
Yes.
Cyberpunk 2077 has evolved into a strong RPG, especially on PC where its visual and technical potential can be fully realized. However, it still falls short of being a truly next-generation open-world experience due to limited interactivity and uneven systems.
⭐ Final Rating: 8.6/10
Cyberpunk 2077 (PC)
Cyberpunk 2077 is an open-world, action-adventure RPG set in the dark future of Night City — a dangerous megalopolis obsessed with power, glamor, and ceaseless body modification..."