How Netrunning enables wild build decisions in Cyberpunk 2077

Netrunning in Cyberpunk2077 is more than just a game mechanic – it’s a way to become Night City’s digital puppet master. Netrunners can bypass traditional combat scenarios by using Night City’s digital infrastructure against their enemies. This involves hacking enemy cyberware, disabling security systems, and even exploding vehicles. But what really sets Netrunning apart is the versatility and customization it offers through its huge list of cyberdecks and quickhacks. This allows players to tackle the game’s challenges in a variety of creative ways.

The previous Cyberpunk2077 Patch 2.0 brought major overhauls to the Netrunning side of the lore. It forced many players to try wilder and more inventive builds. The flexibility allows players to create a build based on their playstyle, whether they’re sneaking through shadows or charging headfirst into battle with an arsenal of quickhacks. Patch 2.1, which rolled out in December 2023, didn’t change much about the core concept of Netrunning. However, it introduced several key adjustments that only enriched gameplay and allowed for wild build choices.

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Cyberpunk 2077 player shows why you should always street race as a netrunner

A Cyberpunk 2077 player shows online why gamers who want to do street racing should always play as a netrunner.

How to Maximize a Netrunner Build and Dominate the Night City

In Cyberpunk2077V’s character attributes start at 3 points by default. The character creation system also gives players 7 points to distribute. All of this is not enough to create a deadly Netrunner build. To take full advantage of all the cyberdecks, quickhacks, and perks available, reaching level 50 is crucial. Players can also increase their level cap to 60 through the Phantom Liberty DLC and unlock access to exclusive perk points. When distributing attribute points in a Netrunner build, maxing out Intelligence at 20 points is necessary to crack more complex systems.

Technical skills should also be used to the maximum, as they increase the capacity of the cyberdeck and unlock access to several cyberware products. For players who prefer a robust physique, it would be better to allocate 17 points to the body. 9 points is the bare minimum for reflexes, which unlocks the dash advantage for body maneuvers and quick escapes. And finally, allocating 15 points to the cool attribute unlocks the ninjutsu advantage, which is essential for stealth scenarios.

Patch 2.1 for Cyberpunk 2077 brings Netrunning into full swing with updates

After Cyberpunk 2077’s 2.1 update, netrunning became even more powerful. One of the standout changes is the improvement of the overclocking ability for players who reach level 60 in the Netrunner skill. It allows players to reveal enemies within a 10-meter radius and hack them through cover. The patch also introduced new cyberware options, such as the Faerie-X Skeleton and the Cogito Grid Integument System. The Faerie-X increases RAM regeneration by up to 250% and the Cogito Grid strengthens armor when RAM is depleted. These additions help players create a resilient build for crucial fights in the game.

Netrunnings advantage in road races

One of the lesser known but very effective applications of Netrunning in Cyberpunk2077 is in street racing. By using quickhacks, players can easily disable or even destroy other vehicles, leading to an easy but merciless victory. Additionally, Netrunners can use quickhacks to make themselves harder to hit or shoot at during these high-speed challenges. Certain actions, such as neutralizing enemies, can also contribute to improved stats, giving a significant advantage in the race. This mix of digital warfare and fast-paced racing shows just how versatile and powerful a well-crafted Netrunner build can be in Night City.

The best arsenal to make a Netrunner build unstoppable

The right combination of cyberdeck and quickhacks is essential to creating a great Netrunner build. After the 2.0 update, many players recommend the Tetratronic Rippler Mk.5 due to its biggest RAM boost to Tier 5++. Likewise, the Netwatch Netdriver Mk.1 with its 50% RAM cost reduction and vehicle quickhacks is the perfect cyberdeck for a tactical approach.

When it comes to Cyberware, RAM Reallocator is one of the best choices as it can restore 30% of the maximum RAM when it drops below 20%. Combined with the Cyberware Ex-Disk, it increases the maximum RAM by 6 and speeds up Cyberpunk2077‘s quickhack uploads by 23%. All this will help players outrun their enemies in any scenario. For the legs, the gaming community recommends reinforced tendons for double jumps and better movement. The recent patches and updates of Cyberpunk2077 have simply improved the Netrunning playstyle and expanded the possibilities for creative dominance.

Cyberpunk2077

Cyberpunk 2077 is an open-world action-adventure game from the makers of The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt, CD Projekt Red.
The game is set in Night City, a megalopolis obsessed with power, glamour and body modification. You play V, an outlaw mercenary on a quest to obtain a unique implant that holds the key to immortality.
Updated for the next generation and featuring free additional content, you can customize your character and playstyle as you take on quests, build reputation, and unlock upgrades.
The relationships you form and the choices you make shape history and the world around you. This is where legends are made. What will yours be?

franchise

Cyberpunk

Released

10 December 2020

Motor

REDengine 4

ESRB

M for adults: blood and brutality, intense violence, nudity, strong language, strong sexual content, drug and alcohol use

How long does it take to beat

25 hours

Steam Deck Compatibility

Yes

X|S Improved

Xbox Series X|S players can also download Update 2.1 and enjoy all the game’s new content.

PS Plus availability

N/A

Save cross

Yes

Cross-platform gaming

PS, Xbox, PC

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