Cyberpunk 2077 Movie Will Tell an Original Story, CD Projekt Red Confirms
CD Projekt Red has confirmed that its upcoming Cyberpunk live action movie will tell an original story rather than directly adapt Cyberpunk 2077. The project is being developed with Paramount Pictures, with the studio aiming to expand the franchise's universe without recreating V's journey through Night City.
Speaking to PAP Biznes, CD Projekt Red Joint CEO Michał Nowakowski explained that the company wants to explore new storytelling opportunities rather than reproduce the game's narrative. This approach follows the success of Cyberpunk: Edgerunners, which introduced original characters and expanded the franchise beyond its video game origins.
"We want to tell a story in the world of Cyberpunk, but it won't be a one-to-one translation of the game's story."
— Quote by: Michał Nowakowski
Nowakowski also confirmed that the company's previous agreement with Anonymous Content had expired, opening the opportunity to pursue the project with Paramount Pictures. However, specific story details and a release date have not been announced.
The decision reflects CD Projekt Red's broader investment in transmedia storytelling. Nowakowski highlighted how the original Cyberpunk: Edgerunners increased interest in Cyberpunk 2077 following its 2022 Netflix premiere, with game sales remaining elevated beyond the anime's initial release period. The company hopes future projects will similarly attract new audiences while encouraging existing fans to revisit the Cyberpunk universe.
Developing an original story is a sensible direction for Cyberpunk, particularly because Cyberpunk 2077 features player choices, multiple endings, and a customizable protagonist. Directly adapting V's journey would require establishing a definitive version of events that could conflict with individual player experiences.
Cyberpunk: Edgerunners demonstrated how independent stories can expand the franchise while preserving the game's identity. The upcoming live action project has an opportunity to explore the same themes of corporate power, cybernetic enhancement, and survival without depending on familiar characters.
Would you prefer the Cyberpunk movie to explore a completely new story, or would you rather see V and Johnny Silverhand brought to the big screen?
