When Cyberpunk 2077 launched in late 2020, it was surrounded by hype, controversy, and technical issues. Beneath the performance struggles, however, was a game world rich with atmosphere, narrative choices, and complex characters. Among its many role-playing features, the romance system stands out as one of the most engaging. While not without flaws, the romance options in Cyberpunk 2077 add emotional depth to Night City’s neon-drenched chaos and make relationships just as important as firepower and cyberware.
Romance in a Cyberpunk World
Unlike traditional RPGs where romance can feel like a mechanical add-on, Cyberpunk 2077 integrates relationships into its branching narrative. Playing as V, you encounter a wide cast of characters—fixers, mercs, and rebels—each with distinct motivations. Romance is not just a matter of picking the “flirt” dialogue option; it’s about navigating V’s identity, story arc, and even physical body, since gender and voice choices determine who you can pursue.
The setting makes romance particularly impactful. In a city defined by corporate exploitation, violence, and digital alienation, genuine connections feel rare and precious. Love and intimacy aren’t side activities—they’re moments of humanity amidst a world designed to strip it away.
Character-Driven Connections
Cyberpunk 2077 offers several main romance routes, each carefully crafted around its character’s personality and story arc.
- Panam Palmer: A fierce and independent nomad, Panam offers one of the most developed romances in the game. Her story is deeply tied to the Aldecaldos nomad clan, and pursuing her romance means becoming part of her family and struggles. Her romance is available only to male V, but it is widely regarded as one of the most emotionally satisfying arcs.
- Judy Alvarez: A braindance technician and passionate fighter for her community, Judy represents another fan-favorite route. Her romance is exclusive to female V, and it explores themes of vulnerability, loyalty, and shared trauma. Judy’s character development is particularly strong, and her ending feels heartfelt and bittersweet depending on your choices.
- River Ward: A detective with a strong sense of justice, River’s romance option is open to female V. His storyline is quieter compared to Panam or Judy but offers a grounded, family-centered relationship. It’s less flashy than others, but provides a glimpse into a more intimate, personal life in Night City.
- Kerry Eurodyne: A rockerboy and longtime friend of Johnny Silverhand, Kerry is available as a romance option for male V. His storyline ties into themes of fame, aging, and legacy, offering a romance that feels distinct from the others in tone and scope.
Outside of these four major romances, there are also casual flings, hookups, and relationships with joytoys (prostitutes) scattered throughout the city. While these encounters add flavor, they don’t carry the same narrative weight as the main romances.
Representation and Inclusivity
One of Cyberpunk 2077’s more progressive elements is its attempt at inclusivity in romance. By tying certain options to V’s voice and body type rather than a rigid “gender” choice, CD Projekt Red made an effort to reflect identity in a more fluid way. That said, the execution has been criticized as somewhat restrictive—since each major romance is still locked to a specific gender presentation. For example, players who wanted Judy as male V or Panam as female V found themselves excluded from those paths.
While not perfect, the effort signals an important step in RPG inclusivity. Compared to many other AAA games, Cyberpunk 2077 still stands out for offering same-sex relationships with fully developed characters rather than relegating them to side content.
Emotional Payoffs and Endings
What makes the romances in Cyberpunk 2077 memorable is their integration into the story’s emotional climax. Pursuing a romantic partner isn’t just for flavor text—it can affect the ending you receive. For example, Judy’s relationship may influence your choices in the final mission, and Panam’s bond with you can unlock entirely new narrative outcomes.
The S-romance equivalent here isn’t just a cutscene; it’s an epilogue to your relationship. Seeing V’s connection with their partner carry into the endgame gives a sense of closure and poignancy, especially given the tragic and uncertain fate of V’s body.
Strengths and Weaknesses
Strengths:
- Deeply written romance arcs that feel natural and meaningful.
- Integration of romance into the broader narrative and endings.
- Strong representation of diverse characters and sexualities.
- Distinct personalities and stories make each romance unique.
Weaknesses:
- Restrictive gender-locking for major romances limits player freedom.
- Some casual flings feel shallow or lack follow-up.
- Romance options are relatively few compared to the game’s large world.
Final Verdict
Cyberpunk 2077 may not be a dedicated romance game, but its approach to relationships elevates the RPG experience. The connections you form with Panam, Judy, River, or Kerry are more than side quests—they’re emotional lifelines in a world drowning in neon and nihilism. While the romance system isn’t perfect, especially with its limitations on choice, it succeeds in making players care deeply about characters beyond the gunfights and heists.
For anyone diving into Night City, romance is not just a diversion but a core part of the journey. In a game that asks what it means to live freely in a world that commodifies everything, the ability to love—and be loved—feels revolutionary.
Score: 9/10 – A dystopian love story that makes the chrome shine a little brighter.
