Draft:V (character)

V is a mercenary and the playable protagonist of the video game Cyberpunk 2077, set in a dystopian future.

Character Overview

V is a mercenary involved in events during the year 2077. Players can customize V's character, including selecting a gender, customizing appearance, voice, and body features. V has one of three backgrounds based on their chosen Lifepath: Nomad, Streetkid, or Corpo. Each Lifepath starts in a different location in Night City and affects the introductory questline, equipment, dialogue options, and side quests.

Background and Early Life

V grew up in the American wilderness as part of the Bakkers nomad family. They made their first kill at age 16 during an assault by Raffen Shiv scouts, killing a scout with a single shot to the eye. V left their family after it merged with Snake Nation and later contacted Jackie Welles to smuggle Arasaka contraband.

Life in Night City

V was raised by the streets of Heywood, Night City, and was involved in various criminal activities. They were sent by Kirk to steal a Rayfield Aerondight from a corpo agent but were stopped by Jackie Welles, who was also attempting to steal the vehicle. V and Jackie were arrested by the NCPD and later escaped, leading to a series of events that involved smuggling and confrontations with Arasaka.

Key Events and Relationships

V and Jackie loaded cargo on their car, the Rattler, and crossed the border, only to discover it was a trap set by an Arasaka convoy. After a series of dangerous encounters, including the retrieval of a Relic from Yorinobu Arasaka, V faced numerous challenges that tested their loyalty and survival skills. V's relationship with Jackie was significant, culminating in tragic events that led to Jackie's death and V's struggle with the engram of Johnny Silverhand.

Cyberware and Enhancements

In the Cyberpunk world, V interacts with various forms of cyberware, which are cybernetic technologies permanently grafted to the human body. Cyberware is commonplace and can enhance physical abilities, but it also poses risks such as cyberpsychosis. V's experiences with cyberware reflect the broader themes of identity and humanity within the game's narrative.