Critics Very Vocal About Cyberpunk 2077 Epilepsy Warning

Cyberpunk 2077 is finally out. If you feel like we’ve waited forever for this game, then you’re right. The first announcement for the game released 8 years ago. After multiple delays and concerns of developer crunch time, the CD Projekt Red futurist-shooter is available. Early reviews are out, and they’re relatively underwhelming (Note: Comic Years is on the shortlist for the next round of review codes, so hopefully we’ll have something for you shortly). Aside from actual enjoyability, critics with epileptic sensitivities and concerns are speaking out about flashing lights in the game. In fact, those with epilepsy or similar conditions are being warned to avoid certain parts of the game altogether. For more on the Cyberpunk 2077 epilepsy warning, let’s talk about what’s concerning some critics.

Cyberpunk 2077 Epilepsy Warning – Heads Up if You’re Prone to Seizures

Image Credit: CD Projekt Red

Lianna Ruppert, a reporter at Game Informer, was one of the most prominent voices to warn gamers who suffer from seizures. The Cyberpunk 2077 epilepsy warning isn’t coming from CD Projekt Red (read about their history here); rather, it’s a concern critics discovered. Overall, some individuals can experience seizures when triggered by certain combinations of lights and flashes. In Cyberpunk 2077, a series of flashing lights in a few portions of the game caused Ruppert to experience a seizure. Ruppert also notes a second one almost occurred. The game, as many know well, is all about cyberpunk society. This, among other things, means technology and digitalization affect life in the game. A particular scene where the player puts on a headset appears to be especially triggering.

In the article from Ruppert, specific sections of the game detail where issues arise most often. These may vary depending on each individual and their most impactful triggers. Accessibility in games is a huge concern nowadays, as it should be. Many developers appear to have this at the forefront of their minds when creating games. CD Projekt Red is likely aware of accessibility concerns as well, but this is an issue they should address. Ideally, we’ll see some sort of game setting introduced that eliminates excessive flashing. At the time of this article’s publishing, CD Projekt Red has yet to make a statement on the matter.

Featured Image Credit: CD Projekt Red

Taylor is the Gaming Editor of Comic Years and a lifelong fan of video games. He holds two degrees in Political Communication and wrote a Master's Thesis on resistance movements, race, and the exploitation of college athletes. His wife and two Toy Australian Sheppards keep him sane.