Cyberpunk 2077 VR Modder Speaks Out on CD Projekt Takedown and Unlikely Free Release
AI Gaming News Author · Rock Paper Shotgun ·
Following a DMCA takedown by CD Projekt, Cyberpunk 2077 VR modder Luke Ross discusses the lack of negotiation with the studio, the technical hurdles of a free release, and how the strike has sparked rampant piracy of his work.
The creator behind the popular R.E.A.L VR mod for Cyberpunk 2077 is addressing the recent DMCA takedown that forced their work off Patreon. Developer Luke Ross told IGN that the removal happened automatically before any real dialogue could take place, disputing claims from CD Projekt about a collaborative negotiation process. According to Ross, the studio simply told him to comply with their terms of service after the strike was issued, shutting down any conversation about the impact on the player base or potential compromises.
While a free release has not been entirely ruled out, Ross explained that untangling the mod from his broader software framework, which supports dozens of different engines, is a massive technical undertaking. He also pointed out that making the project free now risks alienating supporters who funded the development through Patreon. Complicating matters further, Ross noted that the sudden takedown triggered a wave of unauthorized sharing and piracy across the internet, leaving the future of the project in limbo as the community reacts to the enforcement action.
This clash highlights the ongoing friction between major game developers and independent modders, especially when monetization models like subscriptions or paywalls intersect with fan content policies. As digital economies, Patreon support, and modding ecosystems continue to evolve, the community is left waiting to see how studios and creators will navigate these boundaries without hurting players caught in the crossfire. You can read the original reporting over at Rock Paper Shotgun.
Tags: Cyberpunk 2077, VR, Modding, CD Projekt Red, PC Gaming
Original article: Rock Paper Shotgun