Cyberpunk 2077, the sprawling open-world RPG from CD Projekt Red, offers players a rich and immersive experience within the dystopian metropolis of Night City. Beyond the high-octane action and gripping narrative, the game also features intricate character relationships, including the option for romance. But who exactly can V, the protagonist, romance in Cyberpunk 2077? This is where things get interesting, as the available options depend heavily on V’s chosen body type and voice. Let’s delve into the romantic possibilities Night City offers, breaking down the prerequisites, character specifics, and potential outcomes.
Understanding Romance in Cyberpunk 2077
Romance in Cyberpunk 2077 is not a simple pick-up line and a fade-to-black. It’s a carefully constructed system that relies on various factors, primarily your character’s gender, voiced persona, and choices made throughout specific questlines. Your V must align with the preferences of the romanceable characters, meaning a male V cannot romance a character exclusively attracted to female Vs, and vice versa. Dialogue choices are crucial; showing genuine interest, support, and empathy are key to building a connection. Failing to progress the relationship at critical moments can lead to rejection.
The Significance of Body Type and Voice
Cyberpunk 2077 allows for character customization beyond just appearance. The choice of body type and voice are integral to determining V’s gender identity within the game’s logic, influencing which characters find V romantically appealing. This is a core mechanic that cannot be altered after character creation, making the initial decision all the more important for players hoping to pursue specific romances. For instance, a V with a masculine body type and voice will have access to romance options unavailable to a V with a feminine body type and voice.
The Nuances of Character Choices
It’s important to note that even if V meets the basic requirements for a romance, positive relationship progression isn’t guaranteed. Specific dialogue choices during key moments in character-specific quests are essential to solidifying a romantic bond. Characters respond to empathy, respect, and shared values. Being dismissive, rude, or making choices contrary to their beliefs can quickly shut down any potential for romance. Romance in Cyberpunk 2077 is earned, not given.
The Available Romance Options
Now, let’s explore the characters V can potentially romance, along with the necessary conditions:
Judy Alvarez
Judy Alvarez is a highly skilled braindance technician and a member of the Mox gang. She’s a complex character with a strong sense of justice and a deep connection to her community.
Romance Requirements for Judy
- V must have a feminine body type and voice.
- Complete Judy’s storyline, which includes the quests “Both Sides, Now,” “Ex-Factor,” “Talkin’ ‘Bout A Revolution,” “Pisces,” and “Pyramid Song.”
- During “Pyramid Song,” accept Judy’s invitation to spend the night with her. The morning after, confirm that it was the beginning of something special.
- Continue to show support and understanding towards Judy throughout the storyline.
Why Judy is a Popular Choice
Judy’s romance is often considered one of the most emotionally resonant in the game. Her vulnerability, passion, and strong moral compass make her a compelling character to connect with. Many players appreciate the genuine connection that can be forged with her. The quest line involves helping her deal with trauma and finding a sense of belonging.
Panam Palmer
Panam Palmer is a strong-willed and independent nomad who leads a group called the Aldecaldos. She’s fiercely loyal to her family and deeply suspicious of corporations.
Romance Requirements for Panam
- V must have a masculine body type and voice.
- Complete Panam’s storyline, which includes the quests “Riders on the Storm,” “With a Little Help From My Friends,” and “Queen of the Highway.”
- During “Riders on the Storm,” be supportive of Panam and take her side in disagreements with Saul.
- During “With a Little Help From My Friends,” let Panam make the decisions.
- During “Queen of the Highway,” agree to let Panam share a tank and flirt with her.
Why Panam’s Romance Appeals to Many
Panam’s romance offers a different flavor than Judy’s. It’s filled with action, adventure, and a sense of belonging to a tight-knit family. Her fierce independence and loyalty are admirable qualities that draw many players to her. The bond with Panam feels like a true partnership.
Kerry Eurodyne
Kerry Eurodyne is a legendary rockerboy and a former member of Samurai, Johnny Silverhand’s band. He’s struggling to find his place in the world after years of fame and excess.
Romance Requirements for Kerry
- V must have a masculine body type and voice.
- Complete Johnny Silverhand’s storyline, which unlocks Kerry’s quests.
- Complete Kerry’s storyline, which includes the quests “Holdin’ On,” “Second Conflict,” “A Like Supreme,” “Rebel! Rebel!,” “I Don’t Wanna Hear It,” and “Off the Leash.”
- During “Off the Leash,” kiss Kerry on the balcony.
The Allure of Kerry’s Romance
Kerry’s romance is a journey of self-discovery and acceptance. It’s about helping a troubled artist find peace and purpose. The rock and roll setting and Kerry’s charismatic personality make this a unique and memorable romance. It’s a relationship built on shared passion and understanding.
River Ward
River Ward is a detective with the Night City Police Department (NCPD). He’s a dedicated officer who’s trying to make a difference in a corrupt system.
Romance Requirements for River
- V must have a feminine body type and voice.
- Complete the quest “I Fought the Law.”
- Complete River’s storyline, which includes the quest “The Hunt.”
- During “The Hunt,” show empathy and support for River throughout the investigation. At the end, during the dialogue on the water tower, express romantic interest in River.
Why Players Choose River’s Romance
River’s romance offers a more grounded and realistic relationship than some of the other options. It’s about connecting with someone who shares your values and wants to make the world a better place. The detective storyline and River’s genuine personality make this a compelling choice. It’s a romance based on mutual respect and a shared sense of justice.
One-Night Stands and Casual Encounters
While the characters listed above offer full-fledged romances with lasting consequences, Cyberpunk 2077 also features opportunities for more casual encounters. These interactions are usually fleeting and don’t have the same depth or impact as the committed relationships.
Joytoys
Night City is filled with sex workers, known as Joytoys, who offer their services for a fee. V can engage in sexual encounters with these characters, regardless of body type or voice. However, these interactions are purely transactional and do not involve any emotional connection or character development. Joytoys provide a brief distraction but offer nothing beyond physical intimacy.
Other Brief Encounters
During certain quests, V may encounter characters who are open to a one-night stand. These encounters are often triggered by specific dialogue choices and may not have any lasting impact on the story. These encounters are typically fleeting and lack the depth of a full romance.
The Impact of Romance on the Game’s Ending
The romantic choices V makes in Cyberpunk 2077 can significantly impact the game’s ending. Completing the storylines of Judy or Panam, and maintaining a strong relationship with them, unlocks unique ending options. These endings offer a sense of closure and provide a glimpse into V’s future with their chosen partner. Romance is not just a side activity; it’s woven into the very fabric of the game’s narrative.
Choosing to embark on the nomad ending with Panam allows V to leave Night City behind and join the Aldecaldos in their search for a cure. The Judy romance offers a similar ending where V chooses to abandon Night City with Judy. Romancing Kerry Eurodyne also affects the endings.
The Importance of Character Choices Throughout the Game
It’s crucial to remember that the consequences of V’s actions extend beyond romantic relationships. Every choice, every dialogue option, and every quest completed contributes to the overall narrative and shapes V’s destiny. The romantic relationships are interwoven with these larger storylines, creating a complex and dynamic world where player agency truly matters. Cyberpunk 2077 rewards players who invest in the world and its characters.
Conclusion: Finding Love in Night City
Cyberpunk 2077 offers a surprisingly nuanced and complex system for romance. While the options are limited by V’s body type and voice, the characters available offer diverse and compelling storylines. Building a meaningful relationship requires empathy, understanding, and a willingness to invest in the characters’ lives. The rewards, however, are significant, as romance can enrich the game’s narrative and shape V’s ultimate fate. Romance provides an emotional anchor in the gritty world of Night City, adding depth and meaning to V’s struggle for survival. So, choose wisely, listen carefully, and be prepared to open your heart – because even in a cyberpunk dystopia, love can find a way.
Can both male and female V romance Judy Alvarez?
No, Judy Alvarez is exclusively a romance option for female V with a feminine voice and body type. If you are playing as a male V, or a female V with a masculine voice and body type, you will still be able to become good friends with Judy and complete her personal quests, but the romance path will not be available. This specificity makes her romance one of the most restricted in the game.
Trying to pursue a romantic relationship with Judy as the wrong V will lead to her politely rejecting your advances. The game clearly delineates the requirements for romancing her, ensuring that players are aware of the restrictions. Therefore, carefully consider your V’s gender and voice during character creation if you are interested in romancing Judy.
What are the requirements for romancing Panam Palmer?
To romance Panam Palmer, you must play as a male V. She is exclusively interested in male characters and will only develop romantic feelings if you meet this criterion. Attempting to romance her as a female V will result in a platonic relationship, regardless of dialogue choices made during her questline.
Beyond the gender requirement, successful romance with Panam hinges on making specific choices during her questline, particularly during the “Riders on the Storm” and “With a Little Help from My Friends” quests. You need to demonstrate loyalty and support for her and the Aldecaldos clan. Correct dialogue choices will lead to the romance option becoming available near the end of her story arc.
Is Kerry Eurodyne a romance option for female V?
No, Kerry Eurodyne is only available as a romance option for male V with a masculine body type. Similar to Judy’s preference, Kerry’s romantic interest is tied to the player character’s gender and physical appearance. If you are playing as a female V, you can still complete his questline and form a strong friendship with him, but the romance path won’t unlock.
Trying to pursue Kerry as a female V will result in him stating his preference for men, making it clear that a romantic relationship is not possible. His questline, which involves exploring his past and confronting his bandmates, is engaging regardless of whether you choose to pursue a romance. Therefore, you can still enjoy his story even without fulfilling the romance criteria.
Who is River Ward and what are the requirements for romancing him?
River Ward is a romance option exclusively for female V. To successfully romance him, you must play as a female character and make specific choices during his questline, “The Hunt.” This quest is emotionally charged and requires careful consideration of your dialogue options to gain River’s trust and affection.
During “The Hunt,” showing empathy and support for River while he investigates a series of gruesome crimes is crucial. Choosing dialogue options that demonstrate your understanding and willingness to help will lead to the romantic path. Failing to make the right choices or acting dismissive will prevent you from pursuing a romantic relationship with him.
Are there any one-night stand options in Cyberpunk 2077?
Yes, Cyberpunk 2077 features Joytoys, which are essentially prostitutes offering temporary companionship. These encounters don’t involve complex storylines or relationship building; they are purely transactional services available to both male and female V.
You can find Joytoys in various locations throughout Night City, marked on the map with a specific icon. Engaging with them will provide a brief, intimate scene, but it won’t lead to any lasting relationships or impact the main storyline. These encounters are primarily for players seeking quick and casual experiences.
Can you romance multiple characters simultaneously?
While you can flirt with and express interest in multiple characters, Cyberpunk 2077 ultimately requires you to commit to one romance path. Attempting to pursue multiple relationships simultaneously can lead to negative consequences, such as characters becoming jealous or ending their relationship with V.
Once you’ve progressed far enough in a relationship with one of the main romanceable characters, they may express a desire for exclusivity. Choosing to pursue another relationship at this point will typically result in the existing relationship ending. Therefore, it’s important to carefully consider which character you want to commit to before progressing too far with multiple potential partners.
What happens if you reject all romance options?
If you choose to reject all romance options in Cyberpunk 2077, you will still be able to complete the game and experience the main storyline. The game doesn’t force you to pursue any romantic relationships, and the absence of a romance won’t significantly impact the overall narrative.
While you might miss out on some character-specific quests and moments of intimacy, you will still be able to form strong friendships with the various characters you encounter. Focusing on these friendships can be a rewarding alternative to pursuing romantic relationships, allowing you to experience the game’s story and characters in a different way.