Pawel Sasko, a key developer on Cyberpunk 2077 and now associate game director for its sequel, recently shared a pivotal career moment on the Flow Games podcast. Initially pondering his future at CD Projekt Red, Sasko had considered whether to remain with the company or seek new challenges elsewhere.
Despite his deep affection for CDPR, the prospect of embarking on another major project with the studio left him at a crossroads.
However, Sasko’s career trajectory took an unexpected turn during a routine meeting with Gabe Amatangelo, Cyberpunk 2077’s game director. Surprised by the presence of Amatangelo and CDPR CEO Adam Badowski, Sasko initially feared he was facing termination.
This apprehension dissolved when he was offered the opportunity to lead the establishment of CDPR’s new Boston studio and spearhead the development of Cyberpunk 2.
The proposition was both unexpected and flattering for Sasko, who described the experience as humbling. The chance to initiate something novel within the same company he cherished proved irresistible. Sasko’s decision to accept was reinforced by the excitement surrounding the new project, which promised a fresh and invigorating creative direction.
Reflecting on his journey, Sasko emphasized the emotional rollercoaster of loyalty, and uncertainty, and ultimately, reaffirmed his dedication to CD Projekt Red. His anecdote underscores the pivotal moments in career paths and the profound impact of unexpected opportunities within a dynamic and evolving industry.
The story of Sasko’s transition encapsulates the essence of navigating career milestones with resilience and embracing transformative opportunities that redefine professional journeys. It exemplifies the intersection of personal passion, corporate loyalty, and the intrinsic drive to innovate within the realm of game development.
