Cyberpunk 2077, the highly anticipated open-world RPG from CD Projekt Red, finally arrived. After numerous delays and much hype, I spent weeks immersed in the neon-drenched streets of Night City to bring you this comprehensive review of the PS4/PS5 version (Cyberpunk 2077 Standard). This review focuses on the PS5 version, but will touch on differences experienced on the PS4.

Cyberpunk 2077 offers a stunningly detailed open world, brimming with characters, side quests, and a captivating main storyline. The character customization is extensive, allowing you to craft a unique V with distinct skills and cybernetic enhancements. The gunplay is satisfying, with a good selection of weapons and a visceral feel to the combat. The sheer scope of Night City, with its diverse districts, is breathtaking.

The game’s narrative is arguably its strongest point. It’s a mature and morally grey story that’s full of twists, turns, and compelling characters. The dialogue is well-written, and the voice acting is top-notch, particularly the performances of Keanu Reeves as Johnny Silverhand and the main character’s voice actors.

Driving also plays a key role. Night City is best explored in a vehicle, and the driving mechanics are fun, if a little arcade-y. There’s a great variety of cars to collect and customize, which adds another layer of enjoyment.

On the PS5, Cyberpunk 2077 runs remarkably well. The graphics are exceptional, especially in ray-tracing mode. The city is incredibly detailed, and the level of environmental storytelling is impressive. Load times are minimal and the frame rate is generally smooth, even during intense moments. However, I did experience some occasional minor stuttering, even on the PS5.

The PS4 version, understandably, suffers more performance issues. While the game is playable, expect lower resolutions, longer load times and a less stable frame rate. The visual fidelity is significantly reduced compared to the PS5 version.

Pros:

• Stunning visuals and detailed world
• Compelling narrative and characters
• Extensive character customization
• Satisfying gunplay
• Excellent voice acting

Cons:

• Occasional bugs and glitches (less prevalent on PS5)
• PS4 performance issues
• Some repetitive side quests
• Steep learning curve for some mechanics

Cyberpunk 2077 is a game of extremes. Its highs are breathtakingly high, with a stunning world, compelling story, and impressive visuals (especially on PS5). However, its lows, such as performance issues on older consoles and occasional bugs, cannot be ignored. Despite its flaws, the overall experience is unforgettable. The sheer scale and ambition of the game are remarkable, and it’s a title that I believe is worth experiencing, especially if you have a PS5 and the patience for some minor imperfections.

Recommendation: A strong recommendation for PS5 owners; consider carefully for PS4 owners due to the performance limitations.