Bilgesu Erdem
As CD Projekt embarks on the ambitious journey of developing the sequel to Cyberpunk 2077, codenamed “Project Orion,” the shift from REDengine to Unreal Engine 5 marks a pivotal transition. Spearheaded by lead quest designer Pawel Sasko, the team faces the challenge of adapting their expertise to the intricacies of the new engine. The move, aimed at exploiting the full potential of the Cyberpunk universe, signifies both a challenge and an opportunity for innovation.
Adapting to New Tools: The switch to Unreal Engine 5 demands a deep understanding of its unique toolset. Sasko emphasizes that specific features tailored for REDengine require meticulous reengineering in Unreal to preserve the essence of the gameโs design. Despite the daunting task, the advantages of Unreal, particularly in terms of graphical fidelity and performance, are promising, albeit early in the development stage to detail.
Collaboration with Epic Games: This venture into Unreal territory also entails a close collaboration with Epic Games. Sasko regards this partnership as an enriching experience, providing CD Projekt with access to Epic’s vast engineering expertise. He views this collaboration not as a hurdle but as a strategic step towards achieving something remarkable in the gaming world.
The Core Team’s Cohesion: Retaining the core team from Cyberpunk 2077, including game director Gabriel Amatangelo and narrative director Igor Sarinski, adds a layer of familiarity and expertise. Their relocation to CD Projekt’s new office in Boston marks a fresh start for “Project Orion.” This unity and shared vision during the crucial pre-production phase are vital for the sequel’s success.
Game Design Evolution: Currently, little is known about “Project Orion,” but hints suggest it might diverge significantly from its predecessor. Decisions like the game’s perspective โ first-person or third-person โ are still under consideration, indicating a willingness to explore new design territories.
Anticipation for the Future: While the development of “Project Orion” is still in its nascent stages, the gaming community eagerly anticipates what CD Projekt will achieve with Unreal Engine 5. The transition represents not just a technical shift but a stride towards redefining the boundaries of the Cyberpunk universe. The journey of “Project Orion” is closely watched, with expectations high for another groundbreaking addition to the genre.
With a blend of technical prowess, collaborative synergy, and creative vision, “Project Orion” is poised to be more than just a sequel; it’s a step into a new era of gaming, promising an experience that transcends the legacy of Cyberpunk 2077.
