Cyberpunk 2077 earns ‘Overwhelmingly Positive’ Steam reviews 4 years after disastrous launch

After a launch that was widely regarded as one of the most disastrous in video game history, Cyberpunk 2077 has completed an extraordinary turnaround, earning an “Overwhelmingly Positive” rating on Steam four years after its release.

The overall general consensus within steam reviews is that the game has immensely evolved from its initial launch, with many claiming the game’s immersion is unparalleled in the industry.

The game, developed by Polish studio CD Projekt Red, debuted in December 2020 to widespread criticism. Plagued by game-breaking bugs and performance issues, particularly on last-generation consoles, Cyberpunk 2077 faced a backlash from disappointed fans and industry professionals alike. The launch was so problematic that, in an unprecedented move, Sony pulled the game from its PlayStation Store, prompting retailers to update their refund policies to accommodate frustrated customers.

Despite the rough start, CD Projekt Red remained committed to salvaging the title. Years of patches, updates, and quality-of-life improvements culminated in the release of Phantom Liberty, a critically acclaimed expansion featuring Idris Elba. The DLC earned praise for its compelling narrative, refined gameplay, and significant content additions, marking a turning point in the game’s reputation.

Cyberpunk 2077 now enjoys an “Overwhelmingly Positive” rating on Steam, reflecting a dramatic shift in public opinion. The game’s redemption arc is a rare example of a major title recovering from an infamously rocky debut, much like “No Man’s Sky,” which overcame significant launch issues through consistent updates and improvements to win over players.

Cyberpunk 2077 has sold over 30 million copies worldwide. Its expansion, Phantom Liberty, released in September 2023, has sold more than 8 million copies as of late 2024.