Can you play Cyberpunk 2077: Phantom Liberty without owning base game?

Nikhil Bahuguna
Cyberpunk 2077 Phantom Liberty character holding a gun

Cyberpunk 2077 Phantom Liberty is finally here, and players are jumping back into the Night City. But, many are still wondering whether they can play the Phantom Liberty DLC without owning the base game. Fortunately, we’ve got the answer for you.

After a disappointing launch in 2020, Cyberpunk 2077 appears to have changed its direction. CD Project RED’s decision to focus on fixing a huge number of issues surrounding the title seems to have worked out, as the game is in a solid state and getting better with the release of the new Phantom Liberty DLC.

The latest expansion introduces a new district, Dogtown, to the game and takes the game closer to what many in the community always wanted. However, if you’re eager to enter the new area and wondering if it’s accessible without owning the Cyberpunk 2077 base game, we can clear that up for you.

Can you play Phantom Liberty without owning the Cyberpunk 2077 base game?

No, you can’t access the Phantom Liberty DLC without owning the Cyberpunk 2077 base game. If you buy the DLC without owning the base game, it will be locked until you purchase a copy of Cyberpunk 2077.

If you already own the base title, you can update your game and download the DLC as well. You’ll have the option to switch between the two game modes from the main menu.

Can you play Phantom Liberty DLC without starting the original Cyberpunk 2077 story?

Cyberpunk 2077 main menu after installing Phantom Liberty DLC
Main menu in Cyberpunk 2077 after loading the Phantom Liberty expansion.

Yes, you can jump into the Phantom Liberty DLC and play it, regardless of your progress in the base game’s story. When you download the Phantom Liberty expansion, and launch the game, you will have two options: Regular Start and Skip Ahead to Phantom Liberty, while selecting a new game.

Cyberpunk 2077 suggests that you opt for the “Regular Start” so that you’re caught up with the events in the base game. However, if you skip to the Phantom Liberty storyline, your attribute points will be assigned automatically, and you’ll be able to redistribute them later.

There you have it! That’s all you need to know before diving into Cyberpunk 2077’s Phantom Liberty DLC. For more on Cyberpunk 2077, be sure to check out these guides:

How to fast travel around Night City in Cyberpunk 2077 | Does Cyberpunk 2077 have New Game Plus? How to unlock Cyberpunk 2077 Phantom Liberty DLC Fastest cars in Cyberpunk 2077: Top speed & where to buy | How to claim Cyberpunk 2077 Phantom Liberty Twitch reward