A recent job advertisement published by CD Projekt Red strongly indicates that the eagerly awaited sequel to Cyberpunk 2077, tentatively referred to as Cyberpunk 2, is set to feature online multiplayer capabilities. The job description explicitly calls for a leader to “develop and optimize multiplayer systems, including matchmaking,” highlighting a significant shift towards integrated online gameplay.
CD Projekt Red publicly announced this hiring initiative on X, seeking a Lead Network Engineer specifically for Cyberpunk 2. The description for this pivotal role outlines responsibilities in “designing and implementing the network architecture and online systems,” further emphasizing the need to “lead and manage a team of talented engineers, working collaboratively to ensure seamless and robust online systems.” This confirms a dedicated effort towards establishing a strong online framework.
This development follows earlier statements from January 2024, when CD Projekt`s joint CEO, Adam Badowski, had already mentioned that multiplayer was being considered for Cyberpunk 2. Interestingly, plans for multiplayer elements, either as part of Cyberpunk 2077 or as a separate spin-off, existed years prior. However, CD Projekt Red ultimately cancelled these multiplayer projects in 2022, a decision made after the challenging and turbulent launch of Cyberpunk 2077 in 2020.
Given CD Projekt Red`s current primary focus on developing The Witcher 4, the release of Cyberpunk 2 is likely still quite far off. While online multiplayer is currently being planned for the game, it is important to remember that development priorities and features can evolve and change, much like they did with Cyberpunk 2077. The studio has not yet made any official public announcement confirming online multiplayer for Cyberpunk 2, so these details are based on recruitment efforts.