One of the gigs in Cyberpunk 2077 raised questions even at CD Projekt RED. „I would say that if you never have that discussion, you’re probably not making art”

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In Cyberpunk 2077, there are numerous intriguing side missions, but one in particular has garnered significant attention due to its powerful and contentious narrative. Even among the developers at CD Projekt RED, it sparked discussions and concerns. Nevertheless, as stated by the game’s Lead Quest Designer, this mission is crucial for artistic expression.

Art requires diving deeper

The mission “Sinnerman” stands out as one that lingers long after completing the game. If we play our cards right, the climax sees us putting a criminal named Joshua on a cross. He accepts this punishment, believing it’s a way to repay for his wrongdoings. Interestingly, the studio records this entire incident for future sale as a braindance.

CD Projekt RED isn’t shy about tackling challenging topics, as demonstrated in The Witcher 3 with the acclaimed Bloody Baron quest. In a discussion with GamesRadar+, Philipp Weber emphasized the significance of being able to address sensitive subjects head-on, which is evident in Cyberpunk 2077, where they reference the crucifixion of Jesus Christ without mincing words.

Later on, he clarified that creators employ such tools not for their complexity, but rather when they have something significant to express. This act takes courage, as they are aware of the fine line between effective expression and potential overstepping.

Regarding the “Sinnerman” project, Weber disclosed that certain studio staff encountered difficulties with it. He clarified that this wasn’t merely for performance, but because there was a genuinely intriguing question they wished to delve into. Despite not finding any definitive answers, it has been deemed worth investigating.

If you avoid having the necessary conversation about taking risks and pushing boundaries in your work, it’s likely that you’re not creating art, as true art often requires courage and a willingness to explore sensitive topics that may provoke strong reactions. So, are you prepared to take on that challenge?

It seems to me that these topics continue to be relevant, and I believe they’re crucial for us to address, as without such dialogue, we may not be able to accomplish tasks like the one at hand.

Are we wondering if the adventures in The Witcher 4 and the next installment of Cyberpunk 2077 will deliver similar immersive experiences as those mentioned earlier?

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2025-05-27 16:03