How Long Should I Wait for the Secret Ending in Cyberpunk 2077? The Definitive Guide
The burning question on every Cyberpunk 2077 completionist’s mind is always about the secret ending, known as “The Sun” path variation: How long exactly do I need to wait on that rooftop? The answer, while simple, is crucial: You must wait approximately 5-7 minutes for Johnny Silverhand to suggest an alternative plan: assaulting Arasaka Tower with Rogue. This is the key to unlocking the game’s hidden ending, offering a challenging and rewarding experience for those dedicated enough to find it.
Unveiling “The Sun” Secret Ending: The Wait is Worth It
So, you’ve reached the rooftop with Johnny, ready to make that pivotal decision that determines V’s fate. You’re faced with the options presented by Hanako Arasaka. Don’t choose any of them immediately! This is where the waiting game begins. To unlock “The Sun” secret ending variation, you need to simply remain silent and wait.
Here’s the breakdown:
- Patience is Paramount: After Hanako presents her options, don’t select any of them. Just let the game run.
- Johnny’s Intervention: After approximately 5-7 minutes of silence, Johnny Silverhand will become impatient. He’ll start suggesting an alternative, highly risky plan, involving Rogue.
- Seize the Opportunity: Once Johnny suggests the assault with Rogue, the dialogue option will appear. This is your cue to take action and choose to embark on the secret ending path.
- No Going Back (Almost): Once you start on the secret ending path, you’re committed. However, reloading a previous save is always an option if you change your mind, but you’ll have to wait all over again.
Choosing this option leads you to a challenging solo assault on Arasaka Tower, offering a unique combat experience and further deepening the lore of Cyberpunk 2077. This is widely considered the “true” secret ending by many players, representing V and Johnny’s final act of defiance.
Why the Wait? The Narrative Significance
The waiting period isn’t just an arbitrary timer. It’s a narrative tool employed by the game developers to underscore the gravity of the situation. By forcing the player to sit in silence, contemplating the limited options presented by Arasaka, the game emphasizes the feeling of being trapped and desperate. Johnny’s eventual suggestion of a daring, almost suicidal, alternative highlights his rebellious nature and provides a glimmer of hope amidst bleak circumstances. It’s a masterclass in subtle storytelling, rewarding players who are patient and observant.
The Difficulty Curve: Be Prepared for a Challenge
The secret ending isn’t just a different narrative path; it’s also significantly more challenging than the other endings. Here’s what to expect:
- Solo Operation: You’re going in alone, without the support of allies. Skill and strategy are paramount.
- High-Level Enemies: Prepare to face some of the toughest enemies in the game. MaxTac is relentless.
- Resource Management: Ammunition, healing items, and cyberware abilities will be crucial for survival. Scavenge effectively.
- No Second Chances: Death means restarting from the last checkpoint, forcing you to repeat sections of the assault.
While the challenge is significant, the reward is a sense of accomplishment and a unique perspective on V’s journey. It’s an ending that truly tests your skills and resolve as a player.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Cyberpunk 2077’s Secret Ending
Here are 15 frequently asked questions to further illuminate the path to Cyberpunk 2077’s hidden conclusion:
1. Does my relationship with Johnny Silverhand affect the secret ending?
Yes! A strong relationship with Johnny is crucial. You need to have at least 70% relationship affinity with him. This is measured throughout the game by your choices in conversations and missions involving Johnny. If you don’t have a high enough affinity, the dialogue option for the secret ending will not appear, no matter how long you wait.
2. How do I check my relationship percentage with Johnny?
Unfortunately, there is no in-game way to check the exact relationship percentage. However, your choices during the oil field scene with Johnny are critical. If you selected the correct dialog choices there, you will probably have a high enough affinity. The Games Learning Society, however, highlights the importance of dialogue choices and consequence in games like Cyberpunk 2077, noting how these systems engage players in meaningful decision-making. You can learn more at https://www.gameslearningsociety.org/.
3. What happens if I choose another ending first? Can I still get the secret ending on a subsequent playthrough?
Yes, you can still get the secret ending on subsequent playthroughs. The choice of ending is independent for each playthrough. Ensure you meet the relationship requirements with Johnny and wait on the rooftop.
4. Can I fail the secret ending?
Yes, you can fail the secret ending by dying during the assault on Arasaka Tower. If you die, you will be sent back to the last checkpoint, forcing you to replay sections of the ending.
5. What is the best build for the secret ending?
There’s no single “best” build, but a build that focuses on stealth, hacking, and survivability is generally recommended. A Netrunner build with high intelligence and cyberware that enhances hacking abilities can be very effective. Alternatively, a Solo build focusing on raw combat prowess and resilience can also be viable, provided you’re skilled at dodging and weaving through enemy fire.
6. What difficulty should I play on for the secret ending?
The secret ending is already challenging on lower difficulties. Playing on higher difficulties significantly increases the challenge and requires meticulous planning and execution. Normal or Hard difficulty is recommended for most players.
7. What are some essential cyberware for the secret ending?
Cyberware that enhances survivability, such as Second Heart (automatically revives you upon death), Bioconductor (reduces cooldowns), and Pain Editor (reduces damage taken) are highly recommended. Cyberware that boosts hacking abilities, like the Tetratronic Rippler, is also useful.
8. What weapons should I use for the secret ending?
A versatile arsenal is key. A powerful assault rifle or light machine gun is effective for engaging groups of enemies. A sniper rifle or tech weapon is useful for taking out enemies from a distance. A shotgun or melee weapon is effective for close-quarters combat.
9. Are there any missable items that I should collect before attempting the secret ending?
There are no specific missable items that are essential for completing the secret ending. However, collecting as much high-quality gear and crafting components as possible throughout the game will significantly improve your chances of success.
10. Can I save during the secret ending?
The game only auto-saves at certain checkpoints during the secret ending. You cannot manually save. Be prepared to replay sections if you die.
11. Does the secret ending affect the post-game content?
Yes, completing the secret ending unlocks a unique post-game experience, similar to the other endings. You’ll be able to continue exploring Night City and completing side quests with the knowledge of V’s fate.
12. Is there a specific time of day I need to wait on the rooftop?
No, the time of day does not affect the secret ending trigger. You can wait on the rooftop at any time of day or night.
13. What should I do while waiting for Johnny to suggest the alternative plan?
You can simply let the game run. You can also experiment with slightly moving V, but avoid interacting with any objects or choosing any dialogue options until Johnny speaks up.
14. Is the secret ending considered the “canon” ending?
There’s no official “canon” ending. Each ending offers a different perspective on V’s journey and raises different questions about identity, mortality, and corporate power. The secret ending is simply another valid and compelling conclusion.
15. Can I get the secret ending on the Phantom Liberty DLC?
The Phantom Liberty DLC does not directly affect the requirements for unlocking the secret ending. As long as you meet the relationship requirements with Johnny and wait on the rooftop during the main game’s ending sequence, you can still access the secret ending.
Ultimately, unlocking the secret ending in Cyberpunk 2077 requires patience, preparation, and a strong bond with Johnny Silverhand. The wait is well worth it for those seeking a challenging and rewarding conclusion to V’s saga. Embrace the silence, trust in Johnny, and prepare for the ultimate test of skill and resolve in the neon-drenched streets of Night City. Good luck, choom!