Cyberpunk 2077’s romantic storylines have won over a notable fan – Josh Sawyer, the designer behind Fallout: New Vegas. Sawyer, known for his critical views on romantic plotlines in games, praised the title’s approach to love stories. He enjoyed how the game wove romance into the narrative, particularly the unexpected pacing.
Sawyer’s comments, shared with PC Gamer, highlight his appreciation for the game’s take on romance. He noted that if he were to base his own romantic storylines on anything, it would be Cyberpunk 2077’s approach. The game’s ability to naturally integrate romance into the story, without feeling forced or awkward, impressed Sawyer.
In the past, Sawyer has expressed his disdain for romantic plotlines that feel shallow or gratuitous. In a 2006 post on the Obsidian forums, he stated that he wasn’t opposed to romance in games, but rather the way it was often handled. He felt that many games reduced romance to mere fantasy fulfillment, rather than exploring deeper emotional connections.
Cyberpunk 2077, however, seems to have gotten it right in Sawyer’s eyes. The game’s four distinct romantic storylines are separate and feel organic, avoiding the awkwardness that can come with romantic plotlines in other RPGs. Sawyer also appreciated the game’s use of cinematic cutscenes, which helped to immerse him in the story.
What sets Cyberpunk 2077 apart is its focus on the player’s personal connections with other characters. The romantic storylines don’t feel like they’re part of a larger team dynamic, but rather a personal, intimate experience. Sawyer praised the game’s first-person perspective, which added to the sense of immersion and made the romantic storylines feel more authentic.
Ultimately, Sawyer’s praise for Cyberpunk 2077’s romantic storylines suggests that he values authenticity and nuance in game design. He’s not opposed to romance in games, but rather wants to see it handled in a way that feels genuine and believable. As the gaming industry continues to evolve, it’s clear that players and designers alike are looking for more sophisticated and engaging storylines – and Cyberpunk 2077 is a notable example of how to get it right.