Cyberpunk 2077: What is the Little Blue Symbol Above NPCs?

In the sprawling cyberpunk metropolis of Night City, NPCs are ubiquitous. From street vendors to corporate executives, they populate every corner of the urban landscape. But what do the little blue symbols above their heads mean?

The Hologram Indicator:

The small, blue hologram symbol hovering over certain NPCs is a visual indicator of their status. It denotes that the NPC is a hologram, a digital projection of a living person. Holograms are commonly used in Night City for various purposes, including:

• Virtual Assistants: Holographic assistants provide information, guidance, and assistance to passersby. They can be found in shops, banks, and other public spaces.
• Advertising: Holographic advertisements display animated billboards and product demonstrations. They are prevalent throughout Night City's neon-lit streets.
• Entertainment: Holographic performers entertain crowds with music, dance, and illusion shows. They can be spotted in nightclubs, plazas, and parks.

Significance for Players:

The holographic indicator has several implications for players:

• Identify Holograms: The symbol helps players distinguish between real NPCs and holograms, which can be particularly useful in crowded or chaotic situations.
• Avoid Unnecessary Interactions: Players can choose to ignore holograms if they wish to save time or avoid irrelevant dialogue.
• Hacking Opportunities: Some holograms can be hacked, allowing players to access hidden information or manipulate their behavior. This can provide strategic advantages in certain missions.

Cyberpunk Lore and Roleplaying:

In the cyberpunk universe of 2077, holograms play a significant role in shaping societal and technological landscapes:

• Digital Augmentation: Holograms are an extension of the pervasive cybernetic enhancements prevalent in Night City. They enhance human abilities and blur the lines between the real and digital realms.
• Corporate Control: Corporations leverage holograms to exert influence over public perception and manipulate consumer behavior. They use holograms to create illusions of prosperity, hide corporate misdeeds, and suppress dissent.
• Social Commentary: The presence of holograms in Night City reflects the theme of simulacra and the commodification of experience. They raise questions about the nature of reality, identity, and the boundaries between humanity and technology.

4 Key Applications of Holograms in Cyberpunk 2077:

Tips and Tricks for Interacting with Holograms:

• Use the Scanner: The scanner tool can reveal hidden information about holograms, such as their origin and purpose.
• Be Cautious: Not all holograms are benign. Some may be decoys or traps set by enemies.
• Experiment with Hacking: If possible, try hacking holograms to unlock new possibilities or gain an advantage.

Common Mistakes to Avoid:

• Ignoring Holograms: Dismissing holograms as unimportant can lead to missed opportunities or crucial information.
• Trusting Holograms Blindly: Holograms can be programmed to deceive or manipulate players. Always exercise caution and verify information.
• Attacking Holograms: Attacking holograms is generally pointless. They are digital projections without physical presence.