Should I Beat Razor or Not in Cyberpunk 2077? A Deep Dive into the Beat on the Brat Decision

The question of whether to beat Razor Hughes in Cyberpunk 2077’s “Beat on the Brat” questline isn’t as simple as just flexing your digital muscles. It’s a choice between Street Cred and cold, hard eddies (Eurodollars). There’s no right or wrong answer; it all depends on your priorities as a mercenary trying to make your mark in Night City. Essentially, winning gets you prestige, while losing fattens your wallet. Let’s break down the implications to help you make the best decision for your V.

The Stakes: Street Cred vs. Eddies

The “Beat on the Brat” questline culminates in a final showdown against Razor Hughes. This fight isn’t just about proving your combat prowess; it’s a pivotal point that impacts your in-game resources.

• Winning the Fight: If you emerge victorious, you’re crowned the new champion. This comes with tangible benefits:

  • A decent sum of Eurodollars (around 3000, as per some reports).
  • A significant boost to your Street Cred. This is crucial for unlocking better cyberware, weapons, and clothing from vendors throughout Night City. Higher Street Cred also unlocks new gigs and quests.

• Throwing the Fight: Deliberately losing, on the other hand, offers a different kind of reward:

  • A significantly larger sum of Eurodollars compared to winning. While the exact amount can vary, it’s generally a more lucrative payout.
  • However, your Street Cred will take a hit. This can delay access to better gear and quests.

Factors to Consider Before Making Your Choice

Before stepping into the ring, weigh these factors:

• Your Playstyle: Are you a completionist aiming to unlock everything Night City has to offer? Or are you more focused on maximizing your immediate wealth to acquire specific items?
• Your Build: Is your V a combat-focused powerhouse, or are you relying more on stealth and hacking? If you’re struggling with the fight itself, throwing it might be the more pragmatic option.
• Your Financial Situation: Are you constantly strapped for cash, or do you have a comfortable buffer? If you’re swimming in eddies, the Street Cred from winning might be more valuable.
• Street Cred Needs: Check your current Street Cred level. If you’re close to unlocking a desired item or quest, winning the Razor fight could push you over the edge.
• Moral Alignment (Roleplaying): Do you see your V as someone who upholds honor in combat, or as a pragmatist willing to bend the rules for personal gain? This can influence your decision from a roleplaying perspective.

How to (Try to) Beat Razor Hughes

If you decide to take on Razor, prepare for a tough fight. Here are some strategies:

• Parrying is Key: The article highlights that parrying Razor’s attacks is essential for countering him. Mastering the parry timing will give you openings for counter-attacks.
• Dodge the Superman Punch: Razor frequently uses a “superman punch” attack. Dodge to the side (preferably your right) when he telegraphs this move. This creates an opportunity for a follow-up attack.
• Counter-Attack Strategy: After dodging the superman punch, follow up with a strong attack and a short combo (2-3 regular attacks) to his back/midsection. This strategy is mentioned to reliably deal damage.
• Keep Your Distance: Maintaining a safe distance can bait Razor into using his lunge attack, making him predictable and easier to counter.
• Cyberware Considerations: While weapons like Mantis Blades and Monowire are disabled in these fights, Gorilla Arms are allowed and provide a significant damage boost. Consider equipping these if you have them. A Sandevistan can also be used, slowing time down for an easier fight.
• Level Up: If you are finding the fight too difficult, consider leveling up, getting more perks in athletics, and acquiring better cyberware.

Throwing the Fight: A Pragmatic Choice?

If your primary goal is to amass wealth, throwing the fight is a valid strategy. The extra eddies can be used to purchase powerful weapons, cyberware, or vehicles. However, be aware of the long-term implications of lower Street Cred.

The Bottom Line

Ultimately, the decision of whether to beat Razor or not depends on your personal priorities and playstyle. There is no universal “best” choice. Consider the trade-offs between Street Cred and Eurodollars and choose the option that aligns with your goals for your V in Night City. Remember, it’s your story to tell.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use Monowire or Mantis Blades in the Razor fight?

No, Monowire and Mantis Blades are disabled during the “Beat on the Brat” fights. However, you can use Gorilla Arms to increase your damage output. A Sandevistan cyberware can be used.

2. Is it possible to beat Razor Hughes without relying on parrying?

While possible, it will be significantly more difficult. Parrying is the most effective way to create openings and counter his attacks. Trying to brute force the fight without parrying will likely lead to frustration.

3. How much Street Cred do I get for winning against Razor?

The exact amount of Street Cred awarded for beating Razor can vary slightly, but it’s generally a substantial increase compared to losing. Expect a notable jump in your Street Cred level.

4. How much money do I get for throwing the fight?

The exact amount of eddies varies, but it is more than you receive for winning the fight. Expect enough to make a noticeable difference to your wallet.

5. What happens if I lose against Razor without throwing the fight?

If you simply lose the fight without deliberately throwing it, you’ll have the option to try again. You won’t receive any rewards (Street Cred or eddies) for a non-deliberate loss.

6. What is the best car to beat Razor?

This question is unrelated as Razor is a person to fight, not a car.

7. Does the difficulty setting affect the Razor fight?

Yes, the difficulty setting will impact the Razor fight. Higher difficulty settings will make Razor hit harder and be more resistant to your attacks. Lowering the difficulty can make the fight more manageable.

8. Is there a “best” ending in Cyberpunk 2077?

The “best” ending is subjective and depends on your personal preferences. The Sun ending is often considered a fitting conclusion for V’s journey, offering recognition and a sense of achievement. But the other endings offer equally compelling narrative conclusions.

9. Where can I find the best cyberware for Beat on the Brat fights?

Since every Ripperdoc in Night City now carries the same items, it doesn’t matter where V goes to get cyberware installed. Prioritize cyberware that boosts your strength, stamina, and overall combat effectiveness.

10. Can I romance Judy Alvarez as a male character?

No, you can only romance Judy Alvarez if your V has a female body type and voice. This is a fixed requirement in the game.

11. What is the “razor and blades” business model?

The “razor and blades” model is a pricing strategy where a base product is sold cheaply to encourage sales of complementary goods. It’s named after razors and blades, where the razor handle is inexpensive, but the blades are a recurring purchase.

12. Is it necessary to use a specific build to beat Razor?

While a specific build isn’t required, a build focused on melee combat, stamina, and reflexes will make the fight significantly easier. Invest points in Athletics and related perks.

13. Can the Sandevistan cyberware be used during the “Beat on the Brat” fights?

Yes! It seems that you can in fact use the Sandevistan cyberware during the “Beat on the Brat” fights! Use that to your advantage!

14. Is Street Cred important after completing the main storyline?

Even after completing the main storyline, Street Cred remains important for accessing new gigs, purchasing high-end items, and experiencing all that Night City has to offer. So do not feel that there is no need for Street Cred afterwards.

15. Where is the best place to find Monowire?

The Legendary Monowire is located near the “Charter St” Fast Travel point in Watson, north-east of your apartment. It’s in a briefcase.