Cyberpunk 2077's secret ending, 'Don't Fear The Reaper,' stands as the ultimate test for players seeking to leave Night City on their own terms. This clandestine finale isn't just handed to players—it demands specific choices, perfect timing, and nerves of steel. The path to this explosive conclusion begins long before the final mission, hidden within the delicate dance of V's relationship with the rogue rockerboy Johnny Silverhand.

Building the Bond That Matters

The foundation for the secret ending is laid during the 'Chippin' In' side quest, where V and Johnny have a heart-to-heart at the rockerboy's gravesite. The dialogue choices here aren't just casual conversation—they're the make-or-break moments that determine whether Johnny will trust V enough to propose the suicide run later. Players must select:

• "The Guy who Saved My Life"

• "Nah, f*ed that up too"

• "What do you want from me?"

• "OK, but as second chances go, this is your last"

• "Yeah, I'll call Rogue"

Miss even one of these critical responses, and the secret ending remains locked away forever. It's like trying to convince your most cynical friend to help you rob a bank—every word counts.

The Waiting Game

During the 'Nocturne Op55n1' mission, when players find themselves on Misty's rooftop with Johnny, conventional wisdom says to choose from the presented options. But the secret ending requires something counterintuitive: patience. Players must wait approximately five minutes without selecting any dialogue option. Suddenly, Johnny will propose a new plan—one that doesn't involve asking for help from any of Night City's factions.

When the new option appears, selecting "[Attack Arasaka Tower] Means goin' out with a bang—I like it" triggers the point of no return. This isn't just another mission choice; it's V declaring they'd rather face Arasaka alone than owe anyone favors.

The Solo Assault Begins

The moment players arrive at Arasaka Tower, the game shifts into high-stakes mode. Unlike other endings where allies provide support, here V faces Arasaka's forces completely alone. The difficulty spikes dramatically—enemies hit harder, appear in greater numbers, and the environment offers little respite.

What makes this particularly challenging is V's deteriorating condition. The Relic malfunction causes V's health to constantly decrease, turning every firefight into a race against time. Players can't just hide and regenerate—they must push forward aggressively while managing their dwindling vitality.

Key Combat Phases:

1. Lobby Assault: The initial wave sets the tone—heavy resistance with robots and elite soldiers

2. Elevator Access: After clearing the lobby, players must retrieve an access token from a defeated soldier

3. Netrunner Operations: The descent into Arasaka's digital heartland

4. Mainframe Connection: Helping Alt interface with Arasaka's systems

The Mainframe Maneuver

Reaching the mainframe room is only half the battle. Players must enable the Arasaka Tower Mainframe through a control computer located to the right of the mainframe area. This triggers another intense combat sequence while waiting for the system to surface. The process involves:

• Fighting through waves of reinforcements

• Accessing the local network terminal

• Enabling the mainframe tower

• Protecting Alt during the interface process

This section separates the prepared from the panicked. Without proper equipment and strategy, players can easily become overwhelmed by the constant enemy reinforcements.

The Final Confrontation

The climax pits V against Adam Smasher in what becomes one of the game's most challenging boss fights. Smasher appears more aggressive and better equipped than in other endings, with rocket launchers and sniper support making the encounter particularly deadly. The environment becomes a chaotic battlefield where positioning and quick thinking determine survival.

Adam Smasher Tactics:

• Rocket Barrages: Dodge or find cover during his missile launches

• Sniper Support: Eliminate rooftop snipers quickly

• Close-Quarters Dominance: Maintain distance when possible

• Environmental Awareness: Use the arena's layout to your advantage

The Aftermath

Defeating Adam Smasher leads to the same pivotal choice as other endings: enter the well to give Johnny control of V's body ("New Dawn Fades" ending) or cross the bridge to become Night City's legend ("The Sun" ending). The difference lies in how V arrives at this moment—alone, against impossible odds, having proven that one determined individual can shake the foundations of the most powerful corporation in Night City.

The 'Don't Fear The Reaper' ending stands as Cyberpunk 2077's ultimate challenge, rewarding players who master both the game's social dynamics and combat systems. It's not just an ending—it's a statement about self-reliance in a world that constantly tries to own you. For those willing to meet its demands, it offers the most personally satisfying conclusion to V's journey through the neon-drenched streets of Night City.