Cyberpunk 2077 is packed with intense choices, rich storylines, and hidden surprises — but few are as coveted as the game’s secret ending. If you’re looking to go beyond the standard finales and experience the ultimate test of skill and resolve, the secret ending offers a thrilling, high-stakes path that’s easy to miss without the right steps.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through exactly how to unlock this hidden gem and what you need to know before diving in.
What is the Secret Ending?
The secret ending is often referred to by players as the “Don’t Fear the Reaper” ending, named after the iconic song that plays during the sequence. Unlike the other endings where V either sides with different factions or makes more narrative-driven decisions, this ending requires you to demonstrate combat skill and quick thinking.
In this ending, V refuses the usual options presented by Johnny Silverhand and opts to take a solo stand against overwhelming odds in a final assault on Arasaka Tower. It’s a brutal, high-risk choice, but it offers a raw and unfiltered conclusion to V’s story.
Why Unlock the Secret Ending?
Beyond the thrill of experiencing something exclusive, the secret ending is a test of your mastery of Cyberpunk’s mechanics, especially combat and stealth. It also provides additional lore and context for Johnny Silverhand’s backstory, giving fans deeper insight into one of the game’s most compelling characters.
For completionists, the secret ending is essential to fully understanding the scope of the narrative and the different possible fates of V.
Step-by-Step Guide to Unlocking the Secret Ending
Step 1
Complete the Main Story up to “Nocturne Op55N1”
The secret ending can only be accessed near the end of the main story, specifically after you finish the mission “Nocturne Op55N1”. This mission leads to the critical decision point where V faces a crossroads about how to approach the final confrontation.
Make sure you progress through the story and side quests to reach this mission without skipping content, as your choices earlier can affect your options here.
Step 2
Meet with Johnny Silverhand
After “Nocturne Op55N1,” you’ll have a conversation with Johnny Silverhand, who proposes several plans for taking down Arasaka Tower and dealing with the biochip inside your head.
The game then presents multiple options, including:
Working with Hanako Arasaka
Joining the Maelstrom gang
Letting Rogue help you infiltrate the tower
Refusing all options and going solo
Step 3
Choose the Solo Option (“Don’t Fear the Reaper”)
To trigger the secret ending, you need to refuse all of Johnny’s plans and choose the option where you decide to take on Arasaka alone. This dialogue choice is typically called something like “I want to do this myself” or “I’m going in alone.”
This choice is only available if your Street Cred is high enough, usually at least level 50. If your Street Cred is too low, the option won’t appear, so make sure you spend time completing gigs, side missions, and other activities to boost your reputation.
Step 4
Prepare for the Final Assault
Once you commit to the solo run, the game gives you time to prepare. You can:
Buy or craft powerful weapons and armor.
Upgrade your cyberware with combat enhancements.
Stock up on healing items, grenades, and other consumables.
This preparation is crucial because the secret ending is basically a one-man assault through a heavily fortified Arasaka Tower.
Step 5
Infiltrate Arasaka Tower
The mission now shifts to a stealth and combat-heavy sequence where you must fight your way through waves of Arasaka security forces. The difficulty here is high, and you need to rely on your combat skills, hacking abilities, and strategy.
Be ready to use stealth to avoid unnecessary firefights, but also engage aggressively when cornered. Utilize quickhacks, grenades, and any special cyberware abilities to survive.
Step 6
Face the Final Challenge
The secret ending culminates in a boss fight that is more intense than other final battles. The enemy is tough, and the environment is designed to test your reflexes and combat prowess. Staying alive requires smart use of your gear and timing.
Tips for Success
Boost Your Street Cred: If the solo option isn’t appearing, grind gigs and side jobs to increase your Street Cred.
Optimize Your Loadout: Focus on weapons and cyberware that complement your playstyle, whether that’s stealth, hacking, or heavy combat.
Save Often: The mission is challenging. Save before tough fights so you can retry without losing progress.
Use Quickhacks: Abilities like Overheat, Short Circuit, and Cyberpsychosis can turn the tide of battle.
Heal Smartly: Always keep healing items on hand and use cover to avoid taking unnecessary damage.
What Happens After the Secret Ending?
After completing the secret ending, the game provides a unique epilogue that offers closure to V’s story and Johnny Silverhand’s legacy. It’s a powerful and emotional conclusion that differs significantly from other endings, emphasizing the personal cost of your choices.
You’ll also unlock achievements or trophies associated with this ending, rewarding your effort to uncover the game’s deepest secrets.
Unlocking the secret ending in Cyberpunk 2077 is a rewarding challenge that pushes your skills and decision-making to the limit. By reaching the right point in the story, boosting your Street Cred, and choosing to go it alone, you’ll experience a thrilling, action-packed finale unlike any other. Whether you’re a seasoned Night City veteran or a newcomer eager to uncover every secret, this ending adds a deeper layer of excitement and closure to V’s journey. So gear up, prepare wisely, and get ready to face Arasaka on your own terms — the secret ending awaits those bold enough to take the leap.
