Should I Start Cyberpunk?

When It Makes Sense

• Good fit: You have a modern PC or current‑gen console that meets the recommended specs and you enjoy open‑world RPGs with deep narratives. Starting now lets you experience the game with major quality‑of‑life improvements and the new expansion included.
• Good fit: You are new to the Cyberpunk franchise and prefer to begin with the latest content rather than revisiting older patches. Phantom Liberty adds fresh storylines and locations, making the first playthrough feel current.

When You Should Avoid It

• Warning sign: Your hardware barely meets the minimum requirements or you are on an older console (e.g., PS4). The added visual fidelity and new areas may cause performance issues that detract from enjoyment.
• Warning sign: You are on a tight budget and already own Cyberpunk 2077 without the expansion. Paying extra for Phantom Liberty before the next price drop or sale could be financially imprudent.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• The expansion introduces a self‑contained storyline that expands the game world, providing fresh content even for veterans.
• Most known bugs have been patched, and the game now runs smoother, offering a more polished first‑time experience.

Cons

• Additional cost: Phantom Liberty is a paid DLC, raising the total price for a brand‑new player.
• Longer time commitment: The base game plus expansion can require 60+ hours to complete, which may be daunting for casual gamers.

Decision Checklist

• Does your system meet or exceed the recommended specifications for Cyberpunk 2077 with Phantom Liberty?
• Can you allocate the budget for both the base game and the expansion without compromising other priorities?
• Are you prepared to invest 40‑60 hours of gameplay to see the full benefits of the new content?

Alternatives to Consider

If hardware or budget constraints are a concern, you might start with the base game alone and wait for a bundled sale that includes Phantom Liberty. Alternatively, explore other narrative‑driven RPGs with lower system requirements, such as The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt (also from CD Projekt Red) or Deus Ex: Mankind Divided, which offer rich storytelling without the need for a recent expansion.

Final Recommendation

For players with capable hardware and the willingness to invest in a full-length RPG, starting Cyberpunk 2077 now that Phantom Liberty is available provides the most complete and refined experience. Those facing budget limits or older hardware should consider beginning with the base game alone, possibly waiting for a discount that bundles the expansion. As always, assess your personal circumstances and, if the decision impacts larger financial or time commitments, seek advice from a trusted advisor.