Phantom Liberty brings a massive expansion to Cyberpunk 2077, introducing players to the dangerous and walled-off district of Dogtown. Whether you are starting a fresh playthrough or jumping back into an existing save file, accessing this spy-thriller expansion requires meeting specific story prerequisites. Understanding how to trigger the main questline ensures a seamless transition into the new narrative content.
Prerequisite Quests in the Main Story
To access the Phantom Liberty expansion during a regular campaign, you must first progress through the main storyline of Cyberpunk 2077. Specifically, you need to complete the main quest chain in Pacifica involving the Voodoo Boys, which concludes with the mission titled Transmission. Finishing this sequence triggers the initial call that grants entry to Dogtown.
If you have already completed Transmission on an existing save file, loading into the game will automatically prompt the next steps. A netrunner named Songbird will contact V via comms, initiating the expansion's opening quest titled Dog Eat Dog. Following her directions will guide you directly to the entrance gate of Dogtown.
Starting directly from the Main Menu
For players who prefer to skip the early sections of Night City, the game provides a convenient shortcut right from the main menu. When choosing to start a new game, you can select the option to jump straight into Phantom Liberty. This feature automatically creates a character leveled up appropriately for the expansion content.
Upon spawning into the world with this shortcut, your character will be assigned a pre-configured stat build and essential cyberware. The main story progress will automatically reflect the completion of key early-game acts, allowing you to answer Songbird's phone call immediately without grinding through previous missions.
Entering Dogtown and Beginning the Expansion
Once Songbird contacts you, head toward the designated waypoint located on the border of Pacifica and Dogtown. You will need to locate a hidden access point along the heavily guarded perimeter wall. Navigating through this restricted path initiates the high-stakes introductory mission of the expansion.
As you progress through the initial gate sequence, Songbird will temporarily enhance V's cyberware capabilities, introducing the Relic skill tree. Completing this intense opening sequence grants full access to the open-world activities, side gigs, and vendors throughout Dogtown.
Preparing Your Character for Dogtown
Before stepping into Dogtown, it is beneficial to ensure your combat gear and cyberware are fully updated. Phantom Liberty features significantly tougher enemy factions, such as Barghest soldiers, who utilize aggressive tactics and heavy armor. Spending time optimizing your combat loadout makes the early expansion missions much more manageable.
Additionally, take time to explore the refreshed skill trees introduced in the 2.0 update alongside the expansion. Allocating your perk points into complementary playstyles will prepare you for the tactical encounters ahead. Being well-equipped ensures you can handle both the stealth and heavy firepower required in the combat zones.
