Cyberpunk 2077 is an action role-playing game played from a first-person perspective as V,[1][2] a mercenary whose voice,[3] face, hairstyle, body type and modifications, background, and clothing are customisable. There are also five attributes (Body, Intelligence, Reflexes, Technical Ability, and Cool) that can be customised to suit the player's gameplay style, with a sixth attribute — Relic — being introduced in the Phantom Liberty expansion.
In the game, players choose from three life paths: Nomad, Street Kid, or Corpo. These choices establish V's background and determine their starting location, prologue mission, and initial clothing. While life paths do not grant advantages in perks, attributes, or levelling, they unlock unique dialogue options based on V’s history. For instance, the Street Kid path starts in Heywood and offers extensive knowledge of Night City’s streets and gangs. The Corpo path begins in the City Center, providing V with the expertise needed to deal with the upper echelon of the corporate world. Finally, the Nomad path starts in the Badlands, featuring a V who is an outsider to the city with specific knowledge regarding the acquisition and transport of corporate goods.[4]