Cyberdeck vs. Sandevistan: Can You Run Both in Cyberpunk 2077?
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The streets of Night City are a brutal battleground, and survival depends on the right cyberware. Two of the most powerful options are the Cyberdeck, allowing for quickhacks, and the Sandevistan, which grants the ability to slow down time. But can you wield both of these game-changing operating systems simultaneously? The short answer is no, not in the base game. Cyberpunk 2077 limits you to a single operating system, forcing a difficult choice between netrunning prowess and time-bending combat.
Understanding the OS Limitation
Cyberpunk 2077 is designed with a specific system in place for operating systems. The game explicitly states that you can only have one operating system installed at a time. This fundamental limitation affects character builds significantly, pushing players to specialize in either hacking or combat. Your operating system slot is precious, and deciding whether to equip a Cyberdeck or a Sandevistan is a key decision that shapes your gameplay style.
While arms, legs, and other cyberware slots can accommodate multiple modifications, the operating system slot is restricted. This constraint is in place for balancing purposes and to ensure that players must carefully consider their chosen path. Equipping a Sandevistan means sacrificing the utility and versatility offered by quickhacks, and vice versa. The only time the game mentions you can install both operating systems at the same time, is by installing mods. Mods allow the player to by pass those limits.
The Impact on Builds
This restriction has a profound impact on how players design their characters. A netrunner build relies heavily on the Cyberdeck to control the battlefield, disabling enemies, manipulating environments, and even causing widespread chaos. In contrast, a combat-focused build utilizing the Sandevistan thrives on speed and precision, allowing players to move like a blur, dodge bullets, and deliver devastating attacks.
The choice between a Cyberdeck and a Sandevistan essentially defines your combat role. Do you want to be a silent puppeteer pulling the strings from the shadows, or a lightning-fast warrior striking with lethal force? This decision requires careful consideration of your preferred playstyle and the challenges you anticipate facing in Night City.
Mods and Exceptions
While the base game enforces the single OS limit, the modding community has introduced ways to circumvent this restriction. Certain mods allow players to install both a Cyberdeck and a Sandevistan, granting access to the benefits of both systems. These mods often introduce additional system slots or alter the game’s mechanics to accommodate multiple operating systems. However, using mods can potentially introduce instability or compatibility issues, so proceed with caution.
Related FAQs
Here are some of the most frequently asked questions related to Cyberdecks and Sandevistans in Cyberpunk 2077:
FAQ 1: Does equipping a Sandevistan remove quickhacks?
Yes. Equipping a Sandevistan replaces your default Cyberdeck, removing your ability to perform quickhacks. You trade netrunning capabilities for enhanced combat prowess.
FAQ 2: Which Sandevistan is closest to David Martinez’s from Edgerunners?
The Militech “Apogee” Sandevistan is considered the closest to the one used by David Martinez in Cyberpunk: Edgerunners. It offers impressive time dilation and stat boosts.
FAQ 3: What is the best Sandevistan for a katana build?
The Zetatech Sandevistan is an ideal option for katana users, providing a significant DPS increase when activated in mid-air. The Dynalar Sandevistan is another strong contender, boosting critical hit chance and damage.
FAQ 4: What is the best overall Sandevistan in the game?
Many players consider the QianT Sandevistan Mk.4 to be the best overall. It offers a long-lasting effect (12 seconds) and a very short cooldown (15 seconds), providing excellent uptime.
FAQ 5: What is the best Sandevistan for shooting builds?
The Militech “Apogee” Sandevistan is the top choice for shooting builds. It slows down time by 85% and increases headshot damage significantly.
FAQ 6: What is the strongest Cyberdeck in Cyberpunk 2077?
The Tetratronic Rippler MK.4 is widely regarded as the most powerful Cyberdeck. Its unique perks and stats make it a formidable tool for netrunners.
FAQ 7: Which Sandevistan slows down time the most?
The Militech “Apogee” Sandevistan slows down time by 85%, offering the most significant time dilation effect in the game.
FAQ 8: Can you breach protocol while using a Sandevistan?
No, you cannot use Breach Protocol on Access Points when you have a Sandevistan equipped because you lack a Cyberdeck.
FAQ 9: How do you get the Militech “Falcon” Sandevistan?
The Militech “Falcon” Sandevistan (or the base Apogee) can be found as random loot in boxes containing 3 or more Legendary items after reaching Level 40. These boxes are often located at the end of Main Jobs, Side Jobs, or Gigs.
FAQ 10: Where can I buy the Dynalar Sandevistan Mk. 4?
You can purchase the Dynalar Sandevistan Mk. 4 from the ripperdoc in Watson, Little China. Fast travel to the Bradbury & Buran point and cross the street to Viktor’s shop.
FAQ 11: Is the Apogee Sandevistan the best in the game?
The Militech Apogee Sandevistan is arguably the best in the game, closely resembling David Martinez’s from Cyberpunk: Edgerunners and offering top-tier performance.
FAQ 12: Do Mantis Blades work well with Sandevistan?
Yes, Mantis Blades can be very effective with a Sandevistan, allowing for swift and deadly attacks. However, be aware that certain kill animations might cancel the Sandevistan effect.
FAQ 13: Where can I find the Zetatech Sandevistan?
The Zetatech Sandevistan Mk. 1 can be purchased from a ripperdoc on the northern end of Watson, Kabuki. Fast travel to the Pinewood Junction point and find his shop in the nearby alleyway.
FAQ 14: Does Viktor sell a Sandevistan?
Yes, Viktor in Little China sells the Dynalar Sandevistan Mk. 4. It’s a good option to consider early in the game.
FAQ 15: What happens if my Sandevistan conflicts with the Synaptic Accelerator?
If you trigger your Sandevistan and then enter combat, the Synaptic Accelerator can cancel the Sandevistan effect, replacing it with its own. This leads to a shorter speed boost and puts the Sandevistan on cooldown, so it’s best to avoid this conflict.
Conclusion: Choose Wisely
In Cyberpunk 2077, the choice between a Cyberdeck and a Sandevistan is a fundamental one that shapes your character’s abilities and playstyle. While you can’t equip both in the base game, understanding the strengths and weaknesses of each operating system is crucial for building a successful character. Whether you prefer hacking from the shadows or slicing through enemies in slow motion, make sure to choose the OS that best suits your vision of a Night City legend.
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