How a 15-Year-Old Meme Helped Shape Cyberpunk 2077's Quest Design

Unconventional Inspiration: How a 15-Year-Old Meme Shaped Cyberpunk 2077's Quest Design

The creative process in game development often draws from unexpected sources. A senior member of CD Projekt Red recently revealed a surprising influence on Cyberpunk 2077's quest design: a meme, over 15 years old.

Paweł Sasko, Quest Director, explained his unique approach:

"When crafting scripts or text, I use music—often tracks with strong beats or lyrics I don't understand—to maintain creative flow. I've listened to 'Epic Sax Guy 10h' far more than I'd like to admit. It provides incredible focus and clarity."

This seemingly random meme, while not explicitly detailed, profoundly impacted the team's narrative structure, player engagement, and even the game's tone, injecting humor into darker moments.

This revelation underscores the importance of diverse inspiration in modern game design. By incorporating internet culture, CD Projekt Red created a more relatable and authentic experience. This unconventional method contributed to the game's groundbreaking status within open-world RPGs.

This approach reflects CD Projekt Red's commitment to blending compelling storytelling with advanced technology. Their consistent innovation, while upholding core values, resonates deeply with players. The use of a long-forgotten meme highlights their open-mindedness and willingness to explore unconventional creative avenues.