Multiplayer Ambitions for Project Orion
Speculation is growing that the sequel to Cyberpunk 2077, currently codenamed Project Orion, is slated to include multiplayer features. This comes years after similar plans for the original Cyberpunk 2077 were abandoned. While CD Projekt Red has not officially confirmed online gameplay for Project Orion, a recent job posting for a Lead Network Engineer strongly suggests the studio is moving in this direction. This potential inclusion aligns with CD Projekt Red’s previously stated goal of integrating online gameplay into all of its franchises and past considerations for multiplayer in the Cyberpunk 2077 sequel.
The prospect of Project Orion finally realizing CD Projekt Red’s multiplayer aspirations would not be surprising, given the long history of the studio exploring online components for the Cyberpunk universe. However, until CD Projekt Red makes an official announcement, there remains a possibility that these features could be altered or removed during development.
Job Listing Details and CD Projekt Red’s Strategy
A specific job posting for a Lead Network Engineer for “Cyberpunk 2, the next mainline Cyberpunk 2077 game,” outlines responsibilities that explicitly involve developing and optimizing multiplayer systems. Key tasks mentioned include creating matchmaking functionalities and addressing technical challenges related to latency, bandwidth usage, and server performance. The role also requires close collaboration with game designers, gameplay programmers, and other departments to ensure network features are seamlessly integrated into the game. Applicants for this position are expected to play a crucial role in designing and implementing the overall network architecture and online systems for Project Orion.
This role is primarily based at CD Projekt Red’s Boston studio, where development on Project Orion is currently underway. Meanwhile, the company’s teams in Poland are focused on The Witcher 4. This strategic distribution of development efforts highlights the importance placed on Project Orion, with the Boston studio dedicated to its advancement.
The Original Cyberpunk 2077 Multiplayer Plans
CD Projekt Red spent several years working on a multiplayer component for the original Cyberpunk 2077. This online offering was initially planned as post-launch DLC. However, these plans were ultimately scrapped entirely due to the game’s challenging launch. The priority shifted to stabilizing the base game and ensuring it functioned as well as possible.
Philipp Weber, a senior quest designer for Cyberpunk 2077, explained in 2022 that following the game’s launch, the studio had to re-evaluate its priorities. The focus became making the core experience robust for players, which meant that other research and development projects, including multiplayer, had to be set aside. He noted that with the original Cyberpunk, the team attempted to achieve too many things simultaneously and needed to concentrate on making the essential parts excellent.
Project Orion Development and Timeline
Work on Project Orion is currently in its pre-production phase. As of July 2025, the project had 116 developers, a number that is anticipated to increase as development progresses. The sequel is expected to be several years away, with estimates suggesting it could be four or five years, or even longer, before its release.
Keanu Reeves, who portrayed Johnny Silverhand in Cyberpunk 2077, has expressed his desire to return for the sequel, stating he would “absolutely” love to play the character again. Additionally, Mike Pondsmith, the creator of the Cyberpunk universe, has hinted that Project Orion will feature a second city in addition to Night City, describing it as feeling like “Chicago gone wrong.”
FAQ
Is multiplayer confirmed for the Cyberpunk 2077 sequel (Project Orion)? No, CD Projekt Red has not officially confirmed multiplayer for Project Orion. However, a job listing for a Lead Network Engineer with responsibilities related to developing and optimizing multiplayer systems strongly suggests its inclusion.
Why was multiplayer scrapped for the original Cyberpunk 2077? Multiplayer plans for the original Cyberpunk 2077 were scrapped due to the game’s difficult launch. CD Projekt Red prioritized fixing and improving the base game experience over developing additional online content.
Where is Project Orion being developed? Project Orion is primarily being developed at CD Projekt Red’s Boston studio.
What kind of multiplayer features are being hinted at for Project Orion? The job listing for a Lead Network Engineer mentions developing and optimizing “multiplayer systems, including matchmaking,” and addressing challenges related to latency, bandwidth usage, and server performance.
When is Project Orion expected to be released? Project Orion is currently in pre-production and is estimated to be at least four or five years away, possibly longer.