The journey of Cyberpunk 2077 has been nothing short of a saga—a testament to redemption, a vibrant open world, and, crucially, the Cyberpunk 2077 DLCs and Expansion Value that followed its launch. What started with significant turbulence has evolved into a celebrated, deeply engaging experience, largely thanks to a commitment to ongoing development, substantial free updates, and one truly stellar paid expansion.
If you've been on the fence, returned to Night City recently, or are just curious about what's been added since its initial release, understanding the full scope of its downloadable content (DLC) and its overall value to players is essential. Let's cut through the noise and dive into what's truly on offer, and whether it's worth your hard-earned Eddies.
At a Glance: Cyberpunk 2077's Expansion Landscape
- Phantom Liberty: The one and only major paid spy-thriller expansion, released September 26, 2023, exclusively for current-gen consoles (PS5, Xbox Series X|S) and PC. It’s a game-changer.
- Edgerunners Update (Patch 1.6): A significant free content update released September 6, 2022, introducing quality-of-life improvements, new gear, and deep ties to the Cyberpunk: Edgerunners anime. This was the final update for last-gen consoles.
- Ultimate Edition: The definitive bundle, including the base game, Phantom Liberty, and all free updates. It's the simplest way for new players to jump in.
- No Other Major Paid DLCs: Beyond Phantom Liberty, there are no other story expansions or significant paid content add-ons. Future efforts from CD Projekt Red are focused on the next Cyberpunk game, codenamed "Orion."
- Value Proposition: For new players, the Ultimate Edition offers exceptional value. For returning players, Phantom Liberty is a compelling, must-play addition that significantly expands the game world and narrative.
From Rough Launch to Night City's True Potential
It’s no secret that Cyberpunk 2077 had a rocky start. However, CD Projekt Red embraced the challenge, releasing numerous patches and updates that not only fixed bugs but also overhauled core systems, dramatically improving performance and player experience across all platforms. This continuous effort laid the groundwork for the truly impactful content that followed, transforming Night City from a promising but flawed world into the vibrant, immersive dystopian playground it was always meant to be. This redemption arc is crucial context for understanding the high quality and value of its subsequent expansions.
The Main Event: Phantom Liberty Expansion
If you’re only going to invest in one piece of additional Cyberpunk 2077 content, Phantom Liberty is unequivocally it. Announced on September 6, 2022, and released on September 26, 2023, this major spy-thriller expansion is a significant addition that reshapes and enriches your experience in Night City.
What is Phantom Liberty?
This expansion throws you back into the shoes of V, but with a critical new mission. You'll be sworn to "faithfully serve the New United States of America," embarking on a high-stakes espionage thriller set in Dogtown, a brand-new, self-contained district within Night City. This isn't just a side quest; it's a deeply woven narrative that introduces new characters, difficult choices, and plenty of twists and turns that feel right at home in the Cyberpunk universe. And yes, Keanu Reeves reprises his iconic role as Johnny Silverhand, adding even more star power to an already compelling story.
Key Features and Content
- New District: Dogtown: A lawless, heavily guarded combat zone, distinct in atmosphere and architecture from the rest of Night City. It’s dense with verticality, secrets, and unique challenges.
- Expanded Storyline: A compelling spy-thriller narrative that can easily run for 15-20 hours on its own, with multiple endings that impact the base game’s conclusion.
- New Jobs & Gigs: A host of fresh missions, side activities, and unique encounters tied to the Dogtown setting and its new cast of characters.
- Arsenal Upgrade: Expect a wealth of new weapons, cyberware, armor, and vehicles to discover and customize. These aren't just cosmetic; they introduce new tactical options and playstyles.
- Redesigned Systems: Phantom Liberty launched alongside the massive 2.0 update (a free update for all base game owners), which completely overhauled the game’s skill trees, cyberware system, vehicular combat, and police AI. While technically part of the free 2.0 update, these changes are integral to the Phantom Liberty experience, making the game feel fresh and dynamic.
- New Threats & Challenges: Dogtown is a dangerous place, introducing new enemy types and challenging boss encounters that demand strategic thinking.
The Value Proposition: Is it Worth It?
Absolutely. Phantom Liberty isn't just DLC; it's a substantial extension that feels like a full-fledged sequel. The storytelling is mature and intricate, the new gameplay mechanics (thanks to Update 2.0) are transformative, and Dogtown itself is a fascinating, dangerous playground. For players who loved the base game and wanted more, or for those returning after a long hiatus, Phantom Liberty breathes new life into Cyberpunk 2077. It’s widely considered one of the best single-player expansions in recent memory. If you're looking to delve deeper into the narrative threads of Phantom Liberty and its impact on V's journey, the expansion is truly essential.
Important Note: Phantom Liberty is exclusively available on PC (Steam), Google Stadia (though the service is now defunct, the game was released for it), PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X|S. It is not available on PlayStation 4 or Xbox One.
The Freebie That Kept on Giving: The Edgerunners Update (Patch 1.6)
Before Phantom Liberty hit, another significant piece of content arrived, entirely free for all players: the Edgerunners Update, also known as Patch 1.6. Launched on September 6, 2022, this update marked a pivotal moment, especially as it coincided with the release of the acclaimed Cyberpunk: Edgerunners animated series on Netflix.
What Was Included in Patch 1.6?
The Edgerunners Update was more than just bug fixes; it introduced new content and quality-of-life improvements that significantly enhanced the base game:
- Anime Synergy: Directly tied to the Cyberpunk: Edgerunners anime (which premiered September 13, 2022, following David Martinez), the update added secrets, gear, and references from the show into Night City. This created a fantastic cross-media experience.
- V's New Look: A highly requested feature, players gained the ability to change V's appearance using mirrors in apartments and safehouses, allowing for cosmetic refreshes mid-playthrough.
- More Gigs & Weapons: New small jobs and an assortment of fresh weapons expanded the variety of activities and combat options available.
- Transmog Feature: Perhaps one of the most beloved additions, transmog allowed players to customize their outfit's appearance without sacrificing the stats of their equipped armor. Finally, you could look stylish and be well-protected simultaneously.
- Roach's Race: A quirky, free-to-play mobile mini-game, Roach's Race, was also announced, letting players dive into a retro-style runner game starring Geralt's horse from The Witcher.
Why It Still Matters (Even with 2.0 and Phantom Liberty)
Patch 1.6 was significant for several reasons:
- Last-Gen Farewell: It was the final update for last-generation consoles (Xbox One and PlayStation 4). This meant last-gen players received a substantial content boost before development officially shifted to current-gen only.
- Base Game Enhancement: It made the existing game better for everyone, adding features that players had long requested and improving overall stability.
- Cross-Media Success: The seamless integration with the Edgerunners anime fueled renewed interest in the game, bringing in new players and drawing back veterans.
Even with the massive 2.0 update and Phantom Liberty, Patch 1.6's contributions, particularly the transmog system and appearance changes, remain foundational improvements to the Cyberpunk 2077 experience. To explore all the gameplay additions of the Edgerunners Update in detail, it's clear how much this free content helped set the stage for the game's resurgence.
The Complete Package: Cyberpunk 2077 Ultimate Edition
For those looking to dive into Night City for the very first time, or those upgrading to current-gen hardware, the Cyberpunk 2077 Ultimate Edition presents the most straightforward and comprehensive option.
What’s Included?
The Ultimate Edition is exactly what it sounds like: the complete, definitive version of Cyberpunk 2077. This bundle includes:
- The base game of Cyberpunk 2077.
- The Phantom Liberty expansion.
- All previously released updates and improvements, including the massive Patch 2.0 overhaul and the Edgerunners Update (Patch 1.6) content.
This means you get the fully realized, current-gen optimized experience right out of the box, with all the narrative depth, gameplay enhancements, and quality-of-life features bundled together.
Who is the Ultimate Edition For?
- New Players: If you've never played Cyberpunk 2077 before, this is hands-down the best way to experience it. You get the complete, updated narrative and gameplay from start to finish.
- Console Upgraders: Players moving from a PS4 or Xbox One to a PS5 or Xbox Series X|S can grab this edition to experience the game at its best, with all the benefits of current-gen performance and the Phantom Liberty expansion.
The Ultimate Edition is available on PC (Steam), Google Stadia (though, again, this platform is no longer active), PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X|S. If you want to break down what’s truly included in the Ultimate Edition, it’s really about convenience and completeness.
A Glimpse into the Future: Nintendo Switch 2
Interestingly, a unique version of the Ultimate Edition is planned for the Nintendo Switch 2, scheduled for release on June 5, 2025. This version aims to leverage the console's advanced hardware by featuring:
- Motion Controls: For immersive interactions.
- Gyroscopic Aiming: Offering precision aiming.
- Touchscreen Support: For intuitive menu navigation and quick actions.
- Mouse Input: An intriguing addition, potentially for specific UI elements or niche playstyles.
This commitment to adapting the game for new hardware, even years after its initial launch, further underscores the ongoing support and belief in Cyberpunk 2077 as a flagship title, even as the studio moves to its successor.
Assessing Your Investment: Is the Value There for Cyberpunk 2077's Expansions?
The question of "value" is always subjective, but for Cyberpunk 2077's DLCs and expansions, the consensus is overwhelmingly positive. Here’s how to weigh your options:
Decision Criteria: Factors to Consider
- Have You Finished the Base Game?
- Yes: If you enjoyed the original story and characters, Phantom Liberty is an essential continuation. The narrative is mature, the stakes are high, and the new content is seamlessly integrated into the existing world.
- No: If you haven't played the base game or didn't finish it, consider whether you're ready to commit to a sprawling RPG. The Ultimate Edition is your best bet, as it provides a complete, cohesive experience. Phantom Liberty is best enjoyed after progressing a significant way through the main story.
- Do You Crave More Story and World-Building?
- Phantom Liberty delivers on this front in spades. The spy-thriller narrative is intricate and adds significant lore and character depth to the Cyberpunk universe. Dogtown itself is a masterclass in environmental storytelling.
- Are You a Fan of Gameplay Overhauls?
- The free 2.0 update (which came alongside Phantom Liberty) fundamentally changed how Cyberpunk 2077 plays. If you appreciate deeper RPG mechanics, more engaging combat, and smarter AI, then the game's current state (including Phantom Liberty) will impress you.
- Price Sensitivity:
- Phantom Liberty is a premium expansion, priced like a smaller, standalone game. If budget is a concern, waiting for sales on the Ultimate Edition or the expansion itself might be wise. However, the sheer amount of high-quality content justifies its full price for most players.
Cost vs. Content: A Breakdown
- Phantom Liberty Standalone: Offers 15-20+ hours of main story content, plus numerous side gigs and exploration in a new district. When paired with the free 2.0 update's systemic changes, it feels like a soft relaunch of the game.
- Ultimate Edition: Combines the entire base game (easily 60-100+ hours for completionists) with the Phantom Liberty expansion and all free updates. This offers hundreds of hours of gameplay for a single purchase, making it an incredible value package.
- Free Updates (like 1.6 and 2.0): These are pure bonuses that dramatically improve the base game without requiring an additional purchase. They add significant value to anyone who already owns the game.
Finding the Best Deal
Resources like GG.deals are invaluable for tracking prices for Cyberpunk 2077 and its add-ons. You can:
- Visit Individual Game Pages: To see current prices from various retailers.
- Create Price Alerts: Get notified when the game or expansion drops to a specific price.
- Look for Green Price Tags: These often indicate historically lowest prices, helping you snag a bargain.
- Check Reviews and Metascore: Before buying, quickly check out the critical and user reception to ensure it aligns with your expectations.
If you’re keen to find the best deals for Cyberpunk 2077 DLCs and the base game, always do a quick comparison shop.
Common Questions & Misconceptions About Cyberpunk 2077 DLCs
Let's clear up some lingering questions about Cyberpunk 2077's post-launch content strategy.
Are there other paid DLCs besides Phantom Liberty?
No. Phantom Liberty is the only major paid story expansion for Cyberpunk 2077. While resources like GG.deals might list 8 items, these typically include cosmetic packs, soundtrack collections, or other minor add-ons that don't constitute major gameplay content. CD Projekt Red has moved on to developing the next Cyberpunk game, "Orion," confirming no further significant expansions for the current game.
Do I need to play the base game first to enjoy Phantom Liberty?
Yes, strongly recommended. Phantom Liberty is integrated into the existing story of Cyberpunk 2077. While you can access it after completing the "Transmission" quest early in the main story, having a deeper understanding of V, Johnny Silverhand, and Night City's factions will significantly enhance your enjoyment and understanding of the expansion's high stakes and nuanced character dynamics.
Is Phantom Liberty available on PS4/Xbox One?
No. Phantom Liberty is a current-generation exclusive. It requires a PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, or a capable PC to run. The Edgerunners Update (Patch 1.6) was the final content update for last-gen consoles.
What happened to the multiplayer DLC?
CD Projekt Red had initially hinted at multiplayer elements or a standalone multiplayer game for Cyberpunk 2077. However, these plans were ultimately cancelled. The studio decided to focus entirely on improving the single-player experience and delivering Phantom Liberty, viewing it as a more critical path for the game's redemption and future.
Will there be more major expansions for Cyberpunk 2077?
No. CD Projekt Red has confirmed that Phantom Liberty is the one and only major expansion for Cyberpunk 2077. All future development for the franchise will be directed towards the next installment, Project Orion, which is currently in its early stages.
Making Your Decision: Stepping Into Dogtown (Or Not)
The Cyberpunk 2077 DLCs and Expansion Value narrative is a resounding success story. The free updates, particularly the massive 2.0 overhaul and the Edgerunners tie-in, have transformed the base game into a polished, engaging experience. The Phantom Liberty expansion, however, is the jewel in the crown—a masterclass in how to expand an open-world RPG, offering a dense, thrilling narrative and new gameplay that revitalizes the entire game.
For anyone who owns the base game on current-gen hardware, Phantom Liberty is a must-buy. It’s a premium experience that delivers far more than just a few hours of extra content; it’s a vital chapter in V’s story and a showcase for Cyberpunk 2077 at its absolute best. If you’re entirely new to Night City, the Ultimate Edition offers unparalleled value, giving you the complete, critically acclaimed package from day one.
Ultimately, your decision comes down to how much you want to immerse yourself in the vibrant, dangerous world of Night City. If the allure of high-stakes espionage, deep character choices, and a vastly improved gameplay experience calls to you, then the value of these additions is clear. Ready to dive into the neon-drenched future? You can learn more in Our full Cyberpunk 2077 review.