In this episode of Game Pass Grab Bag, the hosts revisit Cyberpunk 2077, now newly available on Game Pass, to see how it holds up after years of updates, patches, and second chances.
Once known more for its rocky launch than its gameplay, Cyberpunk 2077 has quietly undergone a transformation. The question now isn’t what went wrong, but rather what does it look like today?
From the neon-drenched chaos of Night City to its layered narrative and evolving mechanics, the hosts dive deep into whether this is finally the version players were waiting for.
“Cyberpunk 2077 is a super fun game.”
World-Building & Story
One thing Cyberpunk 2077 has always done well is world-building.
Night City feels alive in a very specific way. It’s dense, dystopian, and dripping with atmosphere. Every corner tells a story, whether it’s through environmental design, side quests, or overheard conversations.
The main narrative follows a familiar arc of identity, survival, and control, elevated by strong performances, including a standout appearance from Keanu Reeves.
However, the hosts noted that while the world is rich, the story doesn’t always keep up. Character motivations can feel inconsistent, and certain narrative threads don’t land as strongly as expected.
“The world is bleak and dystopian.”
Gameplay Mechanics & Combat
Gameplay in Cyberpunk 2077 offers a mix of gunplay, hacking, and RPG systems.
Players can approach encounters in multiple ways:
• Run-and-gun combat
• Stealth-based infiltration
• Hacking and environmental manipulation
The flexibility is a major strength, allowing players to shape their playstyle through cyberware upgrades and skill trees.
That said, the experience isn’t perfect.
Combat can feel inconsistent, with AI enemies lacking challenge at times. Some encounters feel too easy, while others drag due to pacing issues.
Still, when the systems click together, the gameplay loop can be highly satisfying.
Character Customization & Progression
Customization is one of the standout features.
Players can modify their character through:
• Cyberware enhancements
• Skill trees and perks
• Playstyle-focused builds
This creates a sense of ownership over how you experience the game. Whether you want to be a stealth hacker or a full-on cybernetic tank, the tools are there.
However, progression can feel uneven. Some upgrades have a noticeable impact, while others feel less meaningful.
Technical Improvements & Updates
Perhaps the biggest talking point is how much the game has improved.
Since launch, Cyberpunk 2077 has received:
• Major patches and stability fixes
• Gameplay rebalancing
• Additional content and expansions
The result is a significantly smoother experience compared to its original release. Bugs are still present, but far less disruptive than before.
The game today feels closer to what players expected from the beginning.
Visual Design & Atmosphere
Visually, Cyberpunk 2077 remains impressive.
Night City is packed with detail, from towering skyscrapers to dimly lit alleyways. The lighting, reflections, and overall aesthetic create a strong sense of immersion.
It’s a world that feels intentionally overwhelming, reinforcing the game’s themes of excess and control.
“The world-building is really cool.”
Final Thoughts
Cyberpunk 2077 in its current state is a very different game than it was at launch.
Its strengths include:
• Deep and immersive world-building
• Flexible gameplay systems and playstyles
• Strong visual design and atmosphere
• Significant technical improvements over time
However, it still struggles with:
• Inconsistent story and character development
• AI and combat balancing issues
• Occasional lingering bugs
Ultimately, this is a game that has earned its second chance.
For new players, especially through Game Pass, it’s an easy recommendation. For returning players, it offers a much more polished and complete experience.
“It’s not perfect, but it’s finally what it should have been.”
Night City may still be broken, but now it’s a world worth getting lost in. 🌆🎮
