Cyberpunk 2077 Phantom Liberty: Where to Start
When and how to start Phantom Liberty in Cyberpunk 2077 — level recommendations, story timing, and Dogtown prep without spoilers.
Phantom Liberty is Cyberpunk 2077’s biggest content drop. Starting at the right time avoids frustration and keeps the story coherent.
Recommended start conditions
| Requirement | Why |
|---|---|
| Level 25+ | Dogtown enemies hit hard |
| One solid weapon build | Avoid gear scramble |
| Base game quickhacks unlocked | Netrunner tools matter |
| Some legendary cyberware | Survivability buffer |
Story timing (no spoilers)
- Wait until Johnny/Saburo plot threads are active in main campaign
- Do not rush Dogtown on a fresh level 10 character unless you want hard mode
- Finish a few major Watson/City Center arcs for world context
Dogtown arrival prep
- Upgrade armor cyberware slots
- Stock grenades and healing items
- Bring a silenced and loud weapon option
- Save manual backup before first major mission chain
Relic perk planning
Phantom Liberty introduces relic-based perks. Decide early:
- Combat relic line for Sandevistan players
- Tech/net line for hackers
- Hybrid only if you understand attribute requirements
What to do first in Dogtown
- Unlock local fixer and vendors
- Complete introductory district missions for gear rewards
- Scan new cyberware before respecing entire build
Bottom line
Start Phantom Liberty in the mid-to-late campaign with a focused build and level 25+. Treat Dogtown as a power spike chapter, not a side detour for under-leveled characters.
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Frequently asked questions
When should I start Phantom Liberty?
Most players should finish the main NCPD arcs and reach around level 25+ before Dogtown for smoother combat.
Can I do Phantom Liberty before the main ending?
Yes. The expansion is designed to slot into mid-to-late campaign progression and feeds back into endgame choices.
Do I need Phantom Liberty for the best builds?
No, but Relic perks add strong power spikes for Sandevistan, netrunning, and hybrid combat builds.