Is Takemura Worth Saving in Cyberpunk 2077?
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The burning question on every Cyberpunk 2077 player’s mind when reaching the “Search and Destroy” quest: Is Takemura worth saving? The straightforward answer is a resounding yes, but with crucial caveats. Saving Takemura unlocks an entire ending path – the Devil ending – unavailable otherwise, and it grants access to the corresponding achievement/trophy. However, this decision has significant consequences for both V and Takemura‘s relationship, making it a complex moral and narrative choice.
Saving Takemura expands the game’s narrative tapestry, revealing more about Arasaka‘s inner workings and the complexities of loyalty in a world saturated with betrayal. While the Devil ending itself is often considered one of the bleaker outcomes, the insights gained and the experiences lived make saving Takemura a worthwhile endeavor, particularly for players seeking a complete Cyberpunk 2077 experience. The decision ultimately boils down to player preference, narrative investment, and a willingness to explore the darker corners of Night City’s cybernetic underbelly.
The Benefits of Rescuing Takemura
Saving Takemura provides several tangible and intangible benefits that enhance the Cyberpunk 2077 experience.
Unlocking the Devil Ending
The most significant consequence of saving Takemura is unlocking the Devil ending. In this ending, V chooses to trust Hanako Arasaka and undergoes experimental treatment to separate themselves from Johnny Silverhand. This path provides a unique perspective on Arasaka‘s corporate machinations and the lengths they will go to preserve their power. The ending is often bleak, showcasing Arasaka‘s cold, calculated approach to human life, but it offers a valuable exploration of themes of control, sacrifice, and the price of survival.
Trophy/Achievement Acquisition
For completionists, saving Takemura is a necessity. The Devil trophy/achievement is only attainable by completing the corresponding ending, which, in turn, requires Takemura to be alive. This incentive alone is enough for many players to prioritize his rescue.
Narrative Depth and Character Development
Takemura‘s presence adds considerable depth to the narrative. His unwavering loyalty to Saburo Arasaka and his struggle to reconcile his beliefs with the corrupt reality of the corporation provide compelling character development. He becomes a valuable, if sometimes conflicted, ally. His interactions with V offer insight into Japanese corporate culture and the complexities of honor in a dystopian world.
Epilogue Appearance
If saved, Takemura appears during the epilogue of the Hanako-related ending. His presence adds a layer of closure to V‘s journey, even if that closure is bittersweet. Seeing him again, despite his anger and disappointment, reinforces the impact of V‘s choices and the lasting consequences of their actions.
The Consequences of Rescuing Takemura
While saving Takemura unlocks significant content, it comes with its own set of consequences.
Takemura’s Disapproval
Perhaps the most significant consequence is Takemura‘s eventual anger and disappointment toward V. He views V‘s actions as a betrayal of Saburo Arasaka‘s memory and a disruption of his own sense of purpose. His fury is palpable, and his words are cutting. This adds a layer of moral complexity to the decision, forcing players to confront the impact of their choices on those around them.
A Bleak Ending Path
The Devil ending itself is often regarded as one of the most depressing in the game. It highlights Arasaka‘s ruthless nature and the potential for exploitation inherent in their corporate structure. V‘s future is uncertain, and the outcome is far from a happy one. Players seeking a more optimistic resolution may find this path unsatisfying.
How to Save Takemura in “Search and Destroy”
The method for saving Takemura is not immediately obvious, and missing the opportunity is a common mistake.
Finding the Hidden Path
During the “Search and Destroy” quest, after Hanako is rescued and the building is under attack, V must escape the apartment. Instead of immediately following Hanako‘s instructions, explore the damaged rooms. You’ll soon find a room with a neon cross. On your left is a hole you crawl through. This leads to a hidden area where you can find Takemura pinned down. Help him fight off the attackers to save him.
The Key is Exploration
The game doesn’t explicitly guide you to this path, so thorough exploration is crucial. Be sure to check all available rooms and passageways before proceeding with the main objective. The game might tell you to get out quickly but its worth searching around.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some frequently asked questions about saving Takemura in Cyberpunk 2077:
1. Does saving Takemura affect Johnny?
Not directly. While Johnny may have opinions on V‘s choices, saving Takemura doesn’t fundamentally alter Johnny‘s storyline or relationship with V.
2. Will Takemura betray V?
No. While Takemura becomes angry and disappointed with V‘s choices, he does not actively betray them in the traditional sense. His anger stems from his own sense of loyalty and betrayal.
3. What happens if I don’t save Takemura in “Search and Destroy”?
If you don’t save Takemura, he will not appear in the epilogue of the Hanako-related ending, and you will not be able to unlock the Devil trophy/achievement. You will also miss out on his unique dialogue and perspective throughout the remainder of the game.
4. Is Johnny Silverhand good or bad?
Johnny Silverhand is a complex character with both heroic and villainous traits. He is a revolutionary fighting against corporate power, but he is also selfish, impulsive, and often destructive. His morality is deliberately ambiguous.
5. Why does Takemura hate V at the end?
Takemura‘s anger stems from his belief that V betrayed Saburo Arasaka‘s memory and destroyed his chance at redemption within the corporation. He sees V‘s actions as a personal affront to his own sense of honor and purpose.
6. Does Takemura need to be alive for the Devil ending?
Yes. Takemura must be saved in “Search and Destroy” to unlock the Devil ending and the corresponding trophy/achievement.
7. What is the best ending in Cyberpunk 2077?
The “best” ending is subjective and depends on individual preferences. However, many players consider the Aldecaldos ending to be the most hopeful and satisfying, as it offers the best chance for V to find a cure and a sense of belonging.
8. Should I give Johnny my body?
The decision to give Johnny V‘s body is a matter of personal preference. It leads to a specific ending where Johnny leaves Night City. Giving the body back to V results in a different outcome and allows V to potentially achieve legendary status.
9. What is the secret ending in Cyberpunk 2077?
The secret ending, “Don’t Fear The Reaper,” becomes available if V‘s relationship with Johnny is high enough (around 70% or higher). This ending involves V storming Arasaka Tower solo, without the help of any allies.
10. Does V survive the Sun ending?
In the Sun ending, V returns to Night City to live out their final days as a legend in the Afterlife. While V doesn’t find a cure, they embrace their remaining time and make a name for themselves.
11. Why is the Arasaka ending so bad?
The Arasaka ending is often considered bleak because it traps V in a sterile, corporate environment, with little hope for a cure and a questionable future under Arasaka‘s control. It highlights the dehumanizing aspects of corporate power.
12. How do I increase my relationship with Johnny to 70%?
To increase your relationship with Johnny to 70%, consistently choose dialogue options that align with his values and beliefs. Support his rebellious nature and express disdain for corporations. Complete side quests related to Johnny and make choices he approves of during those quests.
13. Why is Takemura considered a traitor?
Takemura is branded as a traitor by Yorinobu Arasaka because Yorinobu wants to eliminate any potential witnesses to his father’s murder. Framing Takemura as a traitor serves Yorinobu‘s agenda of seizing control of Arasaka.
14. What is the best romance ending in Cyberpunk 2077?
If V romances Judy Alvarez or Panam Palmer, the Aldecaldos ending is generally considered the most fulfilling, as it allows V to leave Night City with their chosen partner and seek a cure with the support of their new family.
15. Is it ethical to side with Arasaka?
The ethics of siding with Arasaka are subjective and depend on the player’s interpretation of the game’s themes. Siding with Arasaka offers a unique perspective on corporate power and the potential for technological advancement, but it also involves supporting a corporation with a history of corruption and exploitation.
Ultimately, the decision to save Takemura is a personal one, shaped by individual preferences and narrative goals. However, by understanding the benefits and consequences of this choice, players can make an informed decision that enhances their Cyberpunk 2077 experience. For more insights into the educational aspects of gaming, check out the Games Learning Society at GamesLearningSociety.org.