A new report suggests WayForward is developing a 2.5D brawler based on Cyberpunk: Edgerunners, with CD Projekt involved, but the project's current status remains unclear
WayForward, the studio behind the Shantae series, is reportedly developing a 2.5D brawler set in the world of Cyberpunk: Edgerunners, according to a recent report. The project, which has not been officially announced, is said to be a collaboration with CD Projekt, the creators of Cyberpunk 2077. While the anime spin-off is confirmed to return for a second season, this potential game adaptation remains unconfirmed by either company.
Unannounced Project Details
The report, first published by MP1st, claims that WayForward has been working on a project codenamed "Gemini" since 2025. The information is attributed to a former WayForward employee, who indicated that the game is currently in the research and design phase. If accurate, this would place the project some distance from release, with no official gameplay footage or screenshots available at this stage.
According to the same source, the game is planned as a "rollback-driven" 2.5D brawler, a genre known for its side-scrolling combat and competitive mechanics. This approach would be consistent with WayForward's previous work on River City Girls, which also features an anime-inspired aesthetic and brawler gameplay. However, no platforms, release window, or gameplay specifics have been confirmed.
Development Status and Uncertainty
It is not currently clear whether the project remains in active development. MP1st notes that WayForward experienced layoffs in September last year following the cancellation of an unannounced game based on an external franchise. It has not been confirmed whether this cancelled project was Gemini or a separate title. CD Projekt declined to comment when approached for clarification, and no official statement has been issued by WayForward.
Given the lack of public confirmation, players should treat the existence and status of the Cyberpunk: Edgerunners brawler as unverified. The absence of a formal announcement means that details such as platforms, pricing, and release timing remain entirely speculative. Until either CD Projekt or WayForward provides an update, the project's future is uncertain.
Cyberpunk Franchise Developments
While the brawler's fate is unclear, the Cyberpunk franchise continues to expand. Cyberpunk: Edgerunners is set to return for a second season on Netflix this autumn, with fans already dissecting teaser footage for clues about new locations and storylines. Meanwhile, CD Projekt is developing Cyberpunk 2, with 163 staff reportedly assigned to the sequel as of April. The studio has indicated that the next mainline entry is unlikely to launch before 2030, as resources are currently focused on The Witcher 4.
Notably, Keanu Reeves has expressed interest in reprising his role as Johnny Silverhand in Cyberpunk 2, and franchise creator Mike Pondsmith has suggested that narrative options exist to bring the character back. However, no casting or story details have been finalised for the sequel.
For players awaiting more immediate Cyberpunk content, calls for additional downloadable content for Cyberpunk 2077 have persisted, but CD Projekt has not announced further expansions beyond Phantom Liberty.
In the context of game development, a project in the research and design phase is typically exploring core mechanics, visual style, and technical feasibility before entering full production. Many such projects are never publicly announced, and some are cancelled before reaching a playable state. Until a studio confirms a game's existence and provides concrete details, players should be cautious about treating early reports as guarantees of release.
