Cyberpunk 2077: Complete Beginner's Guide

Getting Started in Cyberpunk 2077

Choose your Lifepath (Nomad, Street Kid, Corpo) — it affects your opening chapter and a handful of dialogue options throughout but not the main story. More important: decide your build direction early. Netrunner (Intelligence), Solo (Body/Reflex), or Tech (Technical Ability) define which cyberware and perks to invest in. Spread across all three and you'll be weak at everything. Pick one and commit from the start.

Core Mechanics to Master

Cyberware is your primary power source. Visit ripperdocs throughout Night City — Vik in Watson is your first — and install cyberware matching your build. Sandevistan (time-slow on activation) is the highest-skill cyberware for combat. Kerenzikov (slow on aim/dodge) benefits all builds. The Cyberdeck (for netrunners) determines your hacking capabilities. Upgrade cyberware as your Street Cred increases — higher-rarity versions at each slot make significant differences.

Best Starter Build

Sandevistan Blades (Body + Reflex): equip a Sandevistan cyberware, invest perks in Blades (katana) and Athletics, install Mantis Blades arm cyberware. Activate Sandevistan, enter slow-motion, close distance and slash. This build is effective from mid-game and becomes extraordinary once you have an Iconic katana like Satori or Byakko. For beginners who prefer range: Netrunner (Intelligence 20) with Contagion and Synapse Burnout quickhacks clears rooms without entering combat.

Essential Tips

1. Buy cyberware early — even basic implants dramatically increase effectiveness.
2. Do River, Judy, Panam, and Kerry sidequests — they're the game's best writing and unlock unique endings.
3. Disassemble junk, don't sell it — crafting components are more valuable than the eddies at mid-game.
4. Explore Watson fully before leaving — the opening district has the best early loot density.

First Major Boss: Oda

Oda is Arasaka's top cyberninja — fast, aggressive, and capable of going invisible. Keep distance and watch for his location even when cloaked — footsteps on water or debris reveal position. He has three phases; each adds speed and a new attack pattern. Sandevistan counters his speed advantage. Netrunners can use Cyberware Malfunction to disable his cloak. His Phase 3 charge attack has a generous dodge window — sidestep and counter as he recovers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is the game fixed now?
A: Yes — on PC and current-gen consoles, Cyberpunk 2077 is an excellent, stable experience. The 2020 PS4/Xbox One launch is still best avoided.

Q: Do I need Phantom Liberty?
A: Strongly recommended. It adds 15-20 hours of excellent content, a new district, and a new ending. The Complete Edition is the best purchase.

Q: How many endings are there?
A: Six distinct endings, some requiring specific relationship quests to unlock. The "secret" ending requires maxing Johnny's relationship and choosing a specific dialogue option.