Is V Canonically Stronger Than Adam Smasher? Decoding Cyberpunk 2077’s Power Dynamics

Yes, V is canonically stronger than Adam Smasher by the end of Cyberpunk 2077. While Adam Smasher represents immense, cold, and relentless power, V’s journey throughout the game allows them to surpass Smasher through a combination of cyberware, skill, and strategic choices. The player’s ability to customize V’s build, combined with narrative victories against formidable opponents, solidifies V’s position as the apex predator in Night City.

Understanding the Power Scaling in Cyberpunk 2077

Power in Cyberpunk 2077 isn’t just about brute strength; it’s a complex interplay of cybernetic enhancements, technical skills, and strategic acumen. Adam Smasher excels in raw, unadulterated firepower and resilience due to his extensive cyberization. He is, for all intents and purposes, more machine than man. However, V possesses the potential for adaptability and leverages a range of skills and equipment to overcome Smasher’s advantages.

V’s Arsenal of Advantages

• Cyberware Customization: V can equip a vast array of cyberware that enhances their combat abilities, hacking skills, and overall survivability. This customization allows V to tailor their build to exploit Smasher’s weaknesses, such as his vulnerability to chemical and electrical damage.

• Netrunning Capabilities: V’s netrunning skills offer a tactical edge. Quickhacks like “Weapon Malfunction” and “Cyberware Malfunction” can significantly weaken Smasher, disrupting his offensive and defensive capabilities.

• Skill Progression: Through leveling up and investing in specific skill trees, V can become a master of close-quarters combat, ranged weaponry, or stealth tactics. This versatility allows for multiple approaches to defeating Smasher, catering to different playstyles.

• Narrative Agency: The narrative of Cyberpunk 2077 positions V as the ultimate underdog. Their journey, fraught with challenges and choices, culminates in a confrontation with Smasher where victory is both attainable and, in many endings, necessary.

Adam Smasher’s Strengths and Weaknesses

Smasher’s reputation as an unstoppable force stems from his near-complete cybernetic conversion. He boasts superior armor, powerful weaponry, and relentless aggression. However, his reliance on brute force and lack of adaptability make him vulnerable to tactical exploitation. His weaknesses include:

• Vulnerability to Chemical Damage: Exploiting this weakness with the right weaponry can deal significant damage to Smasher.

• Electrical Attacks: Using quickhacks or weapons that inflict electrical damage can disrupt his systems and impair his combat effectiveness.

• Predictable Attack Patterns: While powerful, Smasher’s attack patterns can be learned and countered, allowing V to anticipate and evade his strikes.

The Canonical Evidence

The game provides several pieces of evidence that support the claim that V is canonically stronger than Adam Smasher:

• Defeating Smasher in Multiple Endings: Regardless of the chosen ending, V has the potential to defeat Smasher, showcasing their ability to overcome him in various scenarios.

• Beat on the Brat and Cyberpsycho Encounters: V’s success in these side quests demonstrates their capacity to defeat formidable opponents, honing their skills and acquiring valuable resources.

• The Narrative Arc: V’s story is one of resilience and adaptation. They constantly evolve and become stronger throughout the game, culminating in their ability to challenge and defeat the seemingly insurmountable Adam Smasher.

The Role of Player Agency

It’s important to acknowledge the role of player agency in shaping V’s strength. The player’s choices in terms of build customization, skill progression, and tactical approach directly impact V’s ability to defeat Smasher. However, the game’s narrative structure and available resources inherently empower V to become a force capable of overcoming even the most challenging adversaries.

Ultimately, while Adam Smasher is a terrifying embodiment of cybernetic power, V’s adaptability, skill, and narrative destiny combine to make them the stronger character in the world of Cyberpunk 2077. You can explore more about the impact of games on society and learning through the Games Learning Society at GamesLearningSociety.org.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is Adam Smasher the strongest person in Cyberpunk 2077 lore?

Adam Smasher is widely considered one of the strongest characters in Cyberpunk 2077, primarily due to his extensive cybernetic augmentations and combat prowess. However, other characters like Morgan Blackhand and, canonically, V at the end of the game, can rival or surpass him depending on the circumstances.

2. Could Morgan Blackhand beat Adam Smasher?

This is a highly debated topic in the Cyberpunk community. There is no definitive answer, as Morgan Blackhand’s abilities and equipment are not fully detailed. However, many believe that Blackhand, a legendary Solo, would have a high chance of defeating Smasher due to his skill and experience.

3. Is V stronger than David Martinez from Cyberpunk: Edgerunners?

By the end of Cyberpunk 2077, a well-built V is considerably stronger than David Martinez. While David’s Sandevistan provided incredible speed, V’s cyberware, skills, and tactical options offer a broader range of capabilities and the ability to exploit weaknesses.

4. Is V immune to cyberpsychosis?

The game’s narrative does not explicitly confirm V’s immunity to cyberpsychosis. While some gameplay elements might suggest a degree of resistance, it’s more accurate to say that V navigates the risks of cyberware usage with a degree of control and strategic decision-making.

5. What are Adam Smasher’s weaknesses in Cyberpunk 2077?

Adam Smasher is particularly vulnerable to chemical and electrical damage. Utilizing weapons and quickhacks that inflict these types of damage can significantly reduce his combat effectiveness.

6. What element is Adam Smasher resistant to?

Adam Smasher exhibits resistance to electrical damage. Therefore, relying solely on electrical attacks might not be the most effective strategy against him.

7. Is V mentioned in Cyberpunk: Edgerunners?

No, V and Johnny Silverhand are not directly mentioned in Cyberpunk: Edgerunners. However, there is a significant crossover that transforms the narrative of Cyberpunk 2077 into a revenge story.

8. How is V so strong in Cyberpunk 2077?

V’s strength comes from a combination of factors: extensive cyberware customization, skill progression, strategic decision-making, and narrative agency. The player’s choices and actions shape V’s capabilities, allowing them to become a formidable force in Night City.

9. Is Adam Smasher 100% cyborg?

Adam Smasher is very close to being 100% cyborg. After suffering severe injuries, he opted for full-body cybernetic conversion, leaving very little of his original organic body intact.

10. Could MaxTac take on Adam Smasher?

In a full-scale confrontation, MaxTac would likely have the resources and firepower to defeat Adam Smasher. Their advanced weaponry and coordinated tactics would present a significant challenge to Smasher’s individual strength.

11. Can V survive the events of Cyberpunk 2077?

V’s fate is determined by the player’s choices and the ending they achieve. While a definitive cure for their condition remains elusive, V can secure a meaningful ending and find purpose in their remaining time.

12. Can you spare Adam Smasher in Cyberpunk 2077?

No, you cannot spare Adam Smasher during the main storyline of Cyberpunk 2077. He is a mandatory boss fight.

13. How do you get Johnny Silverhand’s arm in Cyberpunk 2077?

Johnny Silverhand’s arm is a cosmetic item obtained after completing the “Chippin’ In” side quest. It appears as an icon in V’s inventory, listed as a common item.

14. Can Cyberpsychosis be cured in Cyberpunk 2077?

The game suggests that cyberpsychosis is generally considered irreversible. However, V’s interactions with cyberpsychos and the choices they make can offer glimpses of hope and potential for understanding the condition.

15. Why doesn’t David Martinez get cyberpsychosis immediately in Cyberpunk: Edgerunners?

David Martinez’s initial resistance to cyberpsychosis is attributed to his strong emotional foundation, coming from a loving home. However, as he experiences loss and trauma, he gradually succumbs to the effects of his cyberware.