CD Projekt Red will eventually be monetizing the multiplayer component of Cyberpunk 2077 but remains unsure for the time being as to just how.
In an earnings call for the third quarter of 2019, CEO Adam Kicinski noted that multiplayer is still in early stages of development and hence, too soon to confirm anything substantial for the public. Cyberpunk 2077 is being experimented with to explore various possibilities and while Kicinski didn’t mention microtransactions, their inclusion is obviously certain in one way or another.
Cyberpunk 2077 will be the first game from the Witcher studio to feature an online functionality, which is why the developer wants to do it the right way the first time. Kicinski assured that monetization for the multiplayer will be “intelligent” and not compromise the goodwill CD Projekt Red has earned from players in the past. Whatever business model gets decided for Cyberpunk 2077 in the end, know that CD Projekt Red is looking to deliver value over money.
The following is a rough translation of what Kicinski said during the earnings call:
When it comes to monetizing the Cyberpunk 2077 multiplayer – we now think it is far too early to reveal any details. The project is at an early stage of development, and we are constantly experimenting – after all, this is our first multiplayer game. We are exploring various possibilities and so far it is not the time for precise determination directions, although it can be safely said that we will not compromise our own policy “Contracts with players”. Monetization will be intelligent and we will ensure that – how always – we deliver valuable products in exchange for payment received.
Besides an official confirmation of the multiplayer mode in the works, no details have been shared. What has been confirmed is that the mode, in whatever form, will arrive post-release. Based on the time-frame, it doesn’t appear that Cyberpunk 2077 will receive the multiplayer update within the first year.
CD Projekt Red might possibly be thinking to do something like GTA Online — basically, a multiplayer module that’s separate from the main game. It’ll be easier to monetize and increase the game’s overall longevity. That being said, a cooperative mode to roam around Night City with a friend wouldn’t be bad either for Cyberpunk 2077.
Cyberpunk 2077 is scheduled to release for PlayStation 4, Xbox One, and PC on April 16, 2019.
