Is Phantom Liberty better than the base game?
Released in September 2023, the Cyberpunk 2077 Phantom Liberty expansion has generated a lot of buzz among gamers, fans, and critics alike. As one of the most anticipated DLCs (Downloadable Content) in gaming history, it’s natural to wonder: is Phantom Liberty better than the base game? In this article, we’ll explore the answer to this question and dive deep into the pros and cons of this fascinating expansion.
Pros of Phantom Liberty
- Immersive Storyline: Phantom Liberty offers a rich and engaging storyline that will keep you hooked from start to finish. The DLC’s narrative is both thrilling and thought-provoking, raising questions about identity, morality, and humanity.
- New Characters and Playstyle: The expansion introduces two brand-new characters, Solomon Reed and Song So Mi (Songbird), each with their unique abilities, motives, and backstories. This adds depth to the game’s world and characters, creating new possibilities for role-playing and strategizing.
- Enhanced Atmosphere and Soundtrack: The sound design and soundtrack in Phantom Liberty are top-notch, immersing players in a dystopian world that feels increasingly real and haunting.
- Side Quests and Challenges: This DLC comes with a slew of exciting side quests, challenging players to solve complex puzzles, take on high-stakes battles, and navigate the darker side of Night City.
- Technical Improvements: Phantom Liberty takes advantage of the base game’s revised engine, providing smoother gameplay, enhanced graphics, and reduced bugs.
Cons of Phantom Liberty
- Increased Difficulty: The expansion’s added challenges and side quests can make the game more difficult, especially for those accustomed to the base game’s pacing. You may need to adapt your playstyle and skillset to overcome the new hurdles.
- Some Characters Feel Underutilized: While Solomon Reed and Song So Mi are excellent additions, some gamers might feel that certain characters from the base game aren’t given enough screen time or significant storylines in Phantom Liberty.
Comparison with the Base Game
When comparing Phantom Liberty to the base game, it’s essential to consider the DLC’s key features and improvements. Here’s a comparison table to help you decide:
| Category | Base Game | Phantom Liberty |
|---|---|---|
| Story | Introduced world, characters, and story elements | Expands on the base game’s world, characters, and story |
| Playstyle | Standard action-RPG combat and exploration | New characters and playstyles, additional challenges and puzzles |
| Atmosphere | Immersive sci-fi world, soundtrack, and design | Enhanced atmosphere, sound design, and design |
| Difficulty | Gradually increasing difficulty | Increased difficulty in side quests and challenges |
Ultimately, whether Phantom Liberty is better than the base game depends on your personal preferences and playstyle. If you enjoy:
• Immersive storytelling and engaging narratives
• New characters, playstyles, and challenges
• Enhanced atmosphere, soundtrack, and design
then Phantom Liberty is likely the better choice. However, if you prefer:
• The simplicity and pacing of the base game
• The familiar characters and storylines
• A more straightforward experience
the original Cyberpunk 2077 game may still be your top pick.
In conclusion
Phantom Liberty has undeniably enhanced the Cyberpunk 2077 experience, offering a rich narrative, new characters, and exciting challenges. While it may have some drawbacks, such as increased difficulty and underutilized characters, its pros far outweigh its cons. We believe that Phantom Liberty is an improvement over the base game, offering a deeper and more engaging experience for fans and new players alike.