CD Projekt Red announced that Cyberpunk 2077 will no longer get updates on Windows 10, making Windows 11 the minimum operating system for future patches and content. The change, revealed on the developer’s website early this week, marks the third time the studio has raised the game’s minimum PC specs since launch.

Windows 11 becomes the new baseline OS for Cyberpunk 2077

According to the official CD Projekt Red notice, Windows 10 users will be locked out of any forthcoming updates, including bug fixes and new DLC, after the cutoff. The only exception is the Windows 10 Extended Security Updates (ESU) program, which remains active until October 13, 2026, but it does not cover game patches. This shift forces players who wish to stay current to upgrade their operating system.

Third minimum‑spec increase follows February 2022 and September 2023 patches

The latest requirement change follows two earlier adjustments: the February 2022 increase tied to the end of Windows 7 support, and the September 2023 revision that raised demands on VRAM, storage, RAM and CPU for the game’s major overhaul. By now, CD Projekt Red has cited OS compatibility as the primary driver, leveraging Windows 11’s newer APIs and security features to deliver the next wave of enhancements.

Steam data shows 67.74% of PC gamers already on Windows 11

Recent Steam hardware surveys indicate that roughly two‑thirds of the platform’s users have migrated to Windows 11, while only about a quarter remain on Windows 10. As the report notes,this trend aligns with Microsoft’s broader push for users to adopt its latest OS, suggesting that the impact on the overall player base may be limited but still significant for those on older hardware.

What the upgrade means for Night City veterans

Players who stay on Windows 10 will miss out on future content such as the “Phantom Liberty” expansion, which introduced graphical upgrades, performance boosts, and new gameplay systems. CD Projekt Red argues that Windows 11’s DirectStorage, Auto HDR and tighter hardware integration enable a more polished experience, but the trade‑off is that older PCs may struggle to meet the heightened demands.

Unanswered: How will CD Projekt Red support low‑end users?

The announcement does not clarify whether the studio will offer any performance‑friendly mode for players unable to upgrade hardware or OS. It also leaves open whether the ESU window will be extended beyond 2026, a point that could affect long‑term accessibility for budget gamers.

Overall, the move underscores a growing industry patetrn:as operating systems evolve, game developers are increasingly tying support to the latest platforms to harness new features and maintain security. for Cyberpunk 2077 fans, the choice now is clear—upgrade to Windows 11 or risk falling behind the game’s ongoing evolution.