Since its release in late 2020, Cyberpunk 2077 has captivated players with its sprawling open world, rich storytelling, and futuristic aesthetic. Night City, the game’s central location, is a neon-soaked metropolis brimming with life, danger, and intrigue. Beyond its main quests and side gigs, Night City is filled with secrets and Easter eggs that reward curious players who take the time to explore its depths.
In this article, we’ll dive into some of the most interesting hidden secrets and Easter eggs in Cyberpunk 2077, showcasing how CD Projekt Red has woven cultural references, game lore, and even self-aware humor into the fabric of its dystopian world.
The Allure of Night City’s Hidden Gems
Night City isn’t just a backdrop for Cyberpunk 2077—it’s a living, breathing character in its own right. Its intricate design encourages exploration, with every alley, rooftop, and neon-lit corner holding the potential for discovery. Secrets and Easter eggs play an important role in making the city feel immersive and alive, offering:
- World-Building: Hidden details expand the lore of the Cyberpunk universe, revealing more about the city’s history and its inhabitants.
- Nostalgic References: Easter eggs nod to pop culture, other video games, and even CD Projekt Red’s own history.
- Player Rewards: Discovering these secrets provides a sense of accomplishment, rewarding those who stray off the beaten path.
Iconic Secrets and Easter Eggs in Night City
1. The Ghost of Johnny Silverhand
Johnny Silverhand, the rocker-rebel played by Keanu Reeves, is central to Cyberpunk 2077’s story. His influence extends beyond the narrative, with hidden moments and Easter eggs tied to his character.
- Hidden Gigs: By exploring locations tied to Johnny’s past, players can uncover additional lore about his time as a rock star and his revolutionary ideals.
- Samurai Graffiti: Look closely, and you’ll find graffiti of Johnny’s band logo, Samurai, scattered across Night City. It’s a subtle reminder of his legacy and rebellion.
2. Keanu Reeves Easter Eggs
Keanu Reeves himself is referenced in playful ways throughout the game, beyond his portrayal of Johnny Silverhand.
- Breathtaking Meme Reference: One of the most famous moments from Cyberpunk 2077’s promotional phase was Keanu Reeves declaring, “You’re breathtaking!” during E3 2019. In-game, players can find a collectible that refers to this iconic moment.
3. The Witcher References
CD Projekt Red’s The Witcher series is not forgotten in Cyberpunk 2077. Fans of Geralt and his adventures will find nods to the fantasy franchise.
- Ciri’s Mention: In one side mission, a character hints at someone resembling Ciri appearing in their dreams. This clever nod connects to The Witcher 3, where Ciri mentions traveling to a futuristic world that resembles Night City.
- Wolf School Jacket: A jacket resembling Geralt’s Witcher gear can be found, serving as a subtle homage to the studio’s previous work.
4. Blade Runner Inspirations
As a cyberpunk game, it’s no surprise that Cyberpunk 2077 draws inspiration from Blade Runner, the iconic 1982 sci-fi film.
- Rain-Soaked Streets: The city’s atmosphere, complete with rain-soaked streets and glowing billboards, pays homage to Blade Runner’s aesthetic.
- Roy Batty’s Monologue: Players can find a rooftop where a character delivers a line eerily similar to Roy Batty’s famous “Tears in Rain” speech.
5. Secret Weapons and Iconic Gear
Night City is full of powerful weapons and unique gear hidden away for players to find.
- Skippy the Talking Gun: One of the most entertaining finds is Skippy, an AI-driven smart pistol that speaks to the player. Skippy has a quirky personality, making him a memorable companion. However, his humor can shift depending on your choices, making him even more dynamic.
- Johnny Silverhand’s Gear: By completing specific tasks, players can unlock Johnny’s iconic items, including his leather jacket, aviators, and Malorian Arms pistol.
6. Pop Culture Easter Eggs
Night City is packed with references to pop culture, celebrating iconic movies, games, and shows.
- Hideo Kojima Cameo: Legendary game designer Hideo Kojima makes an appearance in the game as a character named Oshima, found at a party during one of the missions.
- Terminator Nods: In certain missions, players can spot subtle nods to the Terminator series, such as robots resembling the T-800 or dialogue referencing Skynet.
- Matrix Allusions: Given Keanu Reeves’ involvement, there are references to The Matrix, including certain visual effects and dialogues that evoke the classic sci-fi series.
7. Hidden Lore and Environmental Storytelling
Beyond the overt Easter eggs, Night City’s world is rich with environmental storytelling that adds depth to the game.
- Braindance Exploration: By analyzing Braindances in detail, players can uncover hidden details and lore about the city’s underworld and corporate intrigues.
- Abandoned Sites: Exploring dilapidated areas reveals relics of the past, such as old posters, graffiti, and tech remnants that hint at Night City’s history before the events of the game.
The Role of Exploration in Uncovering Secrets
One of the most rewarding aspects of Cyberpunk 2077 is how it encourages exploration. Secrets aren’t always marked on the map, requiring players to:
- Engage in Free Roam: Taking detours from main missions often leads to unique discoveries.
- Scan Environments: Using the game’s scanning feature reveals hidden details and interactive objects.
- Follow Clues: Some Easter eggs are tied to cryptic clues found in emails, shards, or conversations, challenging players to piece together their locations.
The Evolution of Cyberpunk 2077 and Hidden Content
Since its launch, Cyberpunk 2077 has undergone significant updates and the addition of new content, including the Phantom Liberty expansion. These updates have introduced even more secrets and areas to explore.
- Improved AI and Features: Updates have enhanced NPC behavior and expanded side content, making exploration more immersive.
- New Easter Eggs: Phantom Liberty adds its own share of hidden gems, ensuring that even veteran players have something fresh to uncover.
Why Night City’s Secrets Matter
The secrets and Easter eggs in Cyberpunk 2077 aren’t just fun distractions—they play a crucial role in enriching the game world. They:
- Enhance Immersion: Hidden details make Night City feel alive and layered, with stories waiting to be discovered around every corner.
- Reward Curiosity: Players who take the time to explore are rewarded with memorable moments and unique gear.
- Celebrate Gaming Culture: By including nods to pop culture and CD Projekt Red’s own history, the game connects with its audience on a deeper level.
Conclusion: Unveiling Night City’s Mysteries
Cyberpunk 2077 is more than just a story about V and Johnny Silverhand—it’s an intricate tapestry of secrets waiting to be unraveled. Night City’s hidden gems, from pop culture nods to powerful gear, create a sense of wonder and reward for players who venture off the beaten path.
Whether you’re uncovering Easter eggs tied to Keanu Reeves’ legacy, delving into The Witcher connections, or simply marveling at the game’s detailed environments, Cyberpunk 2077 offers a treasure trove of discoveries. So, grab your favorite gear, hop on your bike, and explore the neon-lit streets of Night City—you never know what secrets await.
