Iconic Weapons in Cyberpunk 2077 are found through specific merchants, by completing certain jobs (both Main Jobs and Side Jobs), as loot drops from high-value targets, or scattered in particular locations throughout Night City. Many are available only once, and if missed, cannot be re-obtained in that playthrough.
Acquiring Iconic Weapons
Iconic Weapons are distinguished by their unique perks, which are exclusive to each item and cannot be found on standard weapons. These improved weapons come in various types and rarities, offering distinct advantages in combat. Unlike many standard weapons, Iconic Weapons typically lack mod slots in the base game, but the Phantom Liberty expansion introduced “x-MOD2” variants that feature two guaranteed mod slots and enhanced handling. The acquisition of these weapons is often tied to specific conditions, making it crucial to be aware of how and when to obtain them, as missing an opportunity usually means losing access to that particular Iconic Weapon for the remainder of your playthrough.
Many Iconic Weapons are tied directly to story progression or specific character encounters. For example, some weapons are carried by particular characters and can only be obtained by “removing them from the equation,” while others are rewards for completing certain quests. The specific conditions under which these weapons can be obtained underscore the importance of careful exploration and quest completion.
Iconic Weapons Acquisition Methods
Iconic Weapons can be obtained through several distinct methods across Night City and Dogtown. These methods include progressing through Main Jobs, completing Side Jobs, purchasing from vendors, looting from specific enemies, or finding them in the environment.
| Acquisition Method | Examples of Iconic Weapons | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| The most reliable way to find Iconic Weapons in Cyberpunk 2077 is by completing specific Main Jobs and Side Jobs, as well as defeating certain high-value targets, as many of these unique weapons are quest-specific rewards or drops. Additionally, with the Phantom Liberty expansion, new Iconic Weapons can be acquired from vendors in Dogtown, through Airdrops, by clearing Increased Criminal Activity spots, or by completing Gigs in the new region. |
Acquiring Iconic Weapons
Iconic Weapons in Cyberpunk 2077 are a special class of weaponry, distinguished by their unique perks that cannot be found on any other weapon in the game. These weapons are often improved versions of standard weapon types, varying in both type and rarity. Their distinctive effects set them apart, offering unique tactical advantages in combat. Unlike many standard weapons that might offer mod slots, iconic weapons typically forgo these for their inherent special attributes. However, the Phantom Liberty expansion introduced a new tier of these weapons with the “x-MOD2” suffix. These advanced iconic weapons are notable for coming with two guaranteed mod slots and enhanced handling, making them even more versatile and powerful than their earlier counterparts.
The process of acquiring these weapons is often tied to specific in-game events or locations. It’s crucial to understand that most Iconic Weapons are available only once from a particular source. This means that if you miss the specific opportunity to obtain an Iconic Weapon, you generally won’t be able to acquire it again in that playthrough. This scarcity emphasizes the importance of vigilance during missions and exploration.
Iconic Weapons Acquisition Methods
Iconic Weapons can be obtained through several distinct avenues across Night City and the new Dogtown area introduced in the Phantom Liberty expansion. These methods are often tied to the narrative or specific challenges within the game world.
- Main Job Rewards: Many Iconic Weapons are directly integrated into the main storyline. As you progress through the primary quests, you will encounter opportunities to obtain these unique items. Examples include the Kongou, Satori, and Lizzie, which are acquired during specific Main Jobs.
- Side Job Rewards: Beyond the main narrative, numerous Side Jobs offer Iconic Weapons as rewards for their completion. These quests often delve deeper into the lives of Night City’s inhabitants and can lead to powerful additions to your arsenal. The Dying Night, Sir John Phallustiff, and Overwatch are examples of Iconic Weapons found by completing Side Jobs.
- Loot Drops from High-Value Targets: Certain powerful enemies or bosses in the game carry Iconic Weapons. Defeating these specific adversaries will allow you to loot their unique weapon. The Buzzsaw is an example of an Iconic Weapon obtainable through a loot drop.
- Vendor Purchases: While less common for base game Iconic Weapons, some can be purchased from specific merchants. With the Phantom Liberty expansion, vendors in Dogtown, such as Herold Lowe, offer new Iconic Weapons like the Order and Carmen.
- Environmental Finds / Other Iconic Weapons: Some Iconic Weapons are not tied to quests or specific enemies but are instead found in particular locations or left behind from past interactions. The Plan B and Mox are examples of Iconic Weapons that can be discovered this way.
- Phantom Liberty Specific Acquisition: The expansion introduces additional ways to find Iconic Weapons within Dogtown. These include Airdrops, which are dynamic events, clearing Increased Criminal Activity spots, and completing Gigs specific to the Dogtown region.
It is important to note that the level and base damage of Iconic Weapons may vary depending on your progression level when you acquire them. However, their unique special attributes remain consistent regardless of acquisition level.
Upgrading Iconic Weapons
Once you’ve acquired an Iconic Weapon, you’re not stuck with its initial stats. Cyberpunk 2077 allows you to upgrade these valuable items to enhance their effectiveness in combat. Upgrading is performed through the Crafting Menu, accessible from your inventory.
To upgrade an Iconic Weapon:
- Navigate to your Inventory.
- Select the Crafting tab.
- Within the Crafting menu, locate the Upgrades section.
- Here, you will see a list of all your weapons, including any Iconic ones you possess.
- Select the Iconic Weapon you wish to improve.
- Press the Upgrade button, typically located on the bottom right of the interface.
Before you can proceed with the upgrade, ensure you have the necessary components and resources. These materials are crucial for improving weapon stats and can be acquired through various means in Night City. Upgrading Iconic Weapons allows you to maintain their relevance as you progress through the game, ensuring their unique perks continue to provide a significant advantage.
Phantom Liberty Iconic Weapons
The Phantom Liberty expansion introduces a host of new Iconic Weapons, many of which come with the advanced “x-MOD2” designation, providing two guaranteed mod slots and improved handling. These weapons are integrated into the new Dogtown district and can be found through various activities specific to the expansion.
| Name | Rarity | Type | Weapon Attributes | Acquisition |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Order | Rare | Tech Shotgun | Charging above 66% vaporizes enemies, leaving an EMP trail. | Herold Lowe (Vendor) |
| Carmen | Epic | Power Assault Rifle | Shots to limbs increase Crit Chance. Improved handling while running/jumping/sliding, increasing damage/Bleeding. | Herold Lowe (Vendor) |
| Hawk | Rare | Power Assault Rifle | Headshots weaken/mark enemies, slowing them, preventing abilities, reducing damage dealt, and increasing stagger chance. | Lucretia My Reflection (Main Mission) |
| Ol’ Reliable | Epic | Power Revolver | Swapping to this weapon greatly increases headshot damage and effective range. Farther targets have greater headshot Crit Chance. | Shot By Both Sides (Main Mission) |
These Phantom Liberty Iconic Weapons offer new tactical possibilities and reinforce the importance of exploring Dogtown’s unique challenges, from main missions to vendor inventories, Airdrops, and Increased Criminal Activity zones.
FAQ
Can I miss Iconic Weapons permanently? Yes, most Iconic Weapons are available only once from a specific source or during a particular mission. If you miss the given opportunity, you generally won’t be able to obtain that Iconic Weapon unless you start a new game.
Do Iconic Weapons have mod slots? In the base game, most Iconic Weapons typically lack mod slots. However, the Phantom Liberty expansion introduced new Iconic Weapons with the “x-MOD2” suffix, which come with two guaranteed mod slots and enhanced handling.
How do I upgrade my Iconic Weapons? You can upgrade Iconic Weapons by accessing the Crafting Menu from your inventory, navigating to the “Upgrades” section, selecting the Iconic Weapon, and pressing the “Upgrade” button. You will need the necessary components and resources.
Are Iconic Weapons always the same rarity? Iconic Weapons vary in rarity, ranging from Rare to Legendary. Their rarity tier is fixed, but their base stats can scale with your level when acquired.
What is the difference between base game Iconic Weapons and Phantom Liberty Iconic Weapons? Phantom Liberty Iconic Weapons often feature the “x-MOD2” suffix, indicating they come with two guaranteed mod slots and improved handling, which is a significant enhancement over many base game Iconic Weapons. They are also found exclusively within the Dogtown area.