As the gaming world keeps evolving, Cyberpunk 2077 stands as one of the biggest examples of evolution. With the year coming to an end soon, Cyberpunk has given gamers a delightful view with the 2.1 update. This update introduces a unique tribute to Keanu Reeves, an actor deeply intertwined with the game through his character, Johnny Silverhand.
The highlight of the update is a clever nod to one of Reeves’ most famous internet moments – the “Sad Keanu” meme. First reported by Kotaku, this Easter egg can be found within the game’s new subway system. Players riding the metro have a chance encounter with a digital recreation of a melancholic Keanu, faithfully mirroring the meme’s original vibe.
Omfg, they gave Johnny the sad Keanu pose with the birds and everything#Cyberpunk2077 pic.twitter.com/U61uu9Da0L
— Winky (@winky813) December 5, 2023
Cyberpunk 2077’s 2.1 update doesn’t stop at meme references; it also enhances gameplay significantly. The newly introduced metro system offers a swift way to traverse the expansive map, enhancing the player’s exploration experience. Furthermore, the update includes exciting additions like new bikes, car races, and more.
Interestingly, the meme’s inclusion in the game is accessible to all players, not just those with the Phantom Liberty DLC. This universal accessibility invites everyone to witness the melancholy of digital Keanu, a moment that blends internet culture with gaming uniquely and entertainingly.
How did the Sad Keanu Reeves Meme start?
The origin of the “Sad Keanu” meme traces back to a candid photograph taken in 2010. Captured by a Splash News photographer, the image shows Keanu Reeves sitting alone on a park bench, lost in thought and eating a sandwich. This unassuming moment quickly captivated the internet, with many interpreting Reeves’ expression as sadness. The image’s viral spread transformed it into a widely recognized meme.
Keanu Reeves, in later interviews, clarified the context of the photograph. Speaking on The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, he revealed that the picture was simply a snapshot of a regular moment. He was not particularly sad but just hungry and introspective. Despite this, the internet’s fascination with the image continued, leading to its immortalization in many forms.
The meme’s influence notably extended to Reeves’ ventures outside acting. Significantly, in his comic book series “BRZRKR,” co-created with writer Matt Kindt and artist Ron Garney, the first issue features a scene reminiscent of the “Sad Keanu” moment. This incorporation into the comic book is a testament to how deeply the meme has permeated popular culture, effectively demonstrating the blurred lines between life, art, and internet phenomena.
Reeves’ connection to the meme also reflects his broader cultural impact, from his acting roles to his unassuming, relatable persona. His casual mention of wanting to revisit the role of John Constantine in a future film project further cements his status as a versatile and beloved figure in the entertainment industry. The “Sad Keanu” meme, in its simplicity, captures the essence of Reeves’ appeal – a blend of depth, relatability, and an enduring connection with the audience.