CD Projekt Red achieved the 80-second Cyberpunk 2077 cinematic montage by building an in-engine 'back lot' of miniature, optimized locations rather than using pre-rendered video.
The sequence utilizes 79 cuts across 15 distinct locations, featuring approximately 45 NPCs and multiple mirror scenes with real-time character customization.
To manage streaming demands, the engine teleports the protagonist between scenes, loading only the specific assets required for each segment.
Developers optimized memory usage by positioning scenes in close proximity, utilizing low-poly models, and applying selective textures.
NPCs are preloaded into the environment to prevent texture and model stuttering during the rapid transitions.
Mirror scenes are rendered in real time by duplicating rooms behind a wall, allowing for immediate character customization updates.
While early launch versions suffered from pop-in and lighting glitches, subsequent patches have largely resolved these technical issues on PC.
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