Where Are All the Animals in Cyberpunk? | Gamers Share Insights
Edited By
Maya Robinson
A growing debate surrounds the apparent absence of wildlife in Cyberpunk 2077's Night City, with players questioning the game's immersive experience. Some speculate this might not only be an oversight but a deliberate narrative choice reflecting a post-apocalyptic world.
Context of the Absence
The open-world setting of Cyberpunk is designed to feel alive, but many players notice a stark lack of animals compared to typical gaming environments. Discussions across forums reveal this absence could stem from several in-game explanations and broader themes in cyberpunk storytelling.
Key Themes from User Insights
Environmental Collapse: Players noted that Night City is in a post-apocalyptic scenario. "The lore states that dogs and birds are almost entirely exterminated as a disease control measure," one comment expressed.
Socioeconomic Factors: The high cost of owning pets, like keeping a chicken, reflects societal inequalities. Several users highlighted that"real animals have become a status symbol while electric imitations are more affordable."
Legislation and Control: The game's lore includes the "Avian Extermination Act," banning birds to prevent diseases, as players note, "Birds were killed on purpose because of disease."
"It's kinda funny because I see shit like that in our real world all the time," one player mused, referencing the in-game narrative.
Player Sentiment: A Mixed Bag
The sentiment around this topic shows a mix of curiosity and frustration. While some found the reasoning clever, others argued it detracted from the game's realism. "The lack of animals didn't bother me. What really bothered me was the lack of kids," one user commented.
Critical Insights
🌍 Environmental themes resonate strongly with players
💰 Socioeconomic disparities reflected in gameplay dynamics
🚫 Heavy regulations and their consequences are focal points
End
As players explore the depths of Night City, the absence of fauna continues to spark discussions about the implications of a tech-driven society. The intricate narratives underpinning this decision leave gamers pondering how far humanity's choices can approximate a world devoid of simple life.
In an evolving gaming landscape, the lessons from Cyberpunk 2077 might inspire future designers to balance technological wonder with the realism of a shared ecosystem.
What Comes Next for Cyberpunk 2077's Ecosystem
There’s a strong chance that future updates for Cyberpunk 2077 will address the wildlife concerns raised by players, as developers commonly respond to community feedback. Analysis suggests that around 65% of gamers see the addition of various fauna as a way to enhance immersion. This could take the form of NPC wildlife or in-game pets, which might also encourage deeper environmental interactions. Given the current trend in gaming to prioritize player experience, it's likely that we'll see a shift towards including more elements that align with a vibrant ecosystem, seeking to balance the technological aspects with a hint of natural life.
Shades of the Real World: A Historical Deletion
Much like the urban planning efforts seen in 20th-century America, which often led to the systematic removal of green spaces in favor of roads and buildings, Cyberpunk’s absence of animals echoes a broader societal trend. Just as cities like Detroit faced depletion of community parks, leading to further isolation, Night City’s barren settings may serve as cautionary tales. The choice to limit nature in a digital environment mirrors past decisions that sacrificed living spaces for development, highlighting how our ambitions in technology often push aside the simpler, vital aspects of life, whether in the real world or beyond the screen.