Cyberpunk: Is It Still Alive?

Cyberpunk: Just hearing the word brings to mind neon lights, gritty cities, hackers wearing cool shades, and robots lurking in the shadows. Once upon a time, this subgenre of science fiction was everywhere. It was in books, movies, video games, and even in our imaginations about the future. But lately, it feels like cyberpunk has taken a back seat. What happened? Is cyberpunk still relevant today? And why aren't more people writing cyberpunk stories?

What Is Cyberpunk, Anyway?

Before we go further, let's break it down. Cyberpunk is all about futuristic worlds where advanced technology clashes with grimy cityscapes, and big corporations often Rule everything. The little guy/gal (or enter pronouns here!), usually a hacker or some kind of rogue, fights back using their tech skills, wits, and sheer grit. Think The Matrix, Blade Runner, or even video games like Cyberpunk 2077 (check out the Cyberpunk 2077 video below).

It's a genre that asks big questions like, What happens when machines become smarter than us? or What does it mean to be human when we can plug our brains into computers? It's a mix of science fiction and rebellion, with a heavy dose of "cool."

Why Did Cyberpunk Fade?

1. We Are the Future Now! A lot of the tech that seemed futuristic in the 80s and 90s is now part of our everyday lives. Smartphones, artificial intelligence, and smart glasses—cyberpunk imagined them long before they existed. Now, it's not so much sci-fi as it is reality. The mystery and excitement of those worlds might feel less exciting when the real world already has its share of advanced (and sometimes creepy) tech.

2. Cyberpunk has been around for decades. After a while, some of the ideas can feel overused. Neon lights? Check. Hackers fighting big corporations? Check. A world that's falling apart? Double check. Writers might feel like they've seen it all and don't know how to bring something new to the table.

3. It's sorta complicated. Writing cyberpunk takes a lot of work. You have to create a world full of advanced technology, explain how it works, and make it believable. Not everyone feels ready to handle that level of world-building.

4. The rise of other subs. While cyberpunk has been hanging out in the background, other subgenres like fantasy, and dystopian fiction have been stealing the spotlight. These stories might feel more accessible to writers and readers who don't want to deal with tech-heavy plots.

The BIG Question: Is Cyberpunk Still Relevant?

uhh, yes? 

1. It's Timeless. Cyberpunk isn't just about gadgets and neon lights. It's about how humans interact with technology and power. Who controls the tech? What happens when corporations have too much power? These are questions we're still asking today, maybe more than ever.

2. The Real World Feels Very Cyberpunk. Look around. We've got billionaires racing to space, social media influencing our every move, and AI that can do everything from write essays to create art. Cyberpunk stories reflect these challenges and help us think about the consequences of living in such a tech-driven world.

3. People still love the aesthetics. Even if cyberpunk isn't dominating bookshelves, its style—those glowing neon signs, moody rain-soaked cities and edgy characters—still shows up in video games, movies, and TV shows. People are definitely still drawn to the vibe.

Are People Still Interested in Cyberpunk Stories?

Yes, but the interest has shifted. Instead of traditional cyberpunk stories, readers and audiences are looking for fresh takes. They want diverse characters, unique settings, and new angles on the old themes.

How Can We Keep Cyberpunk Alive?

1. Tell new stories. Instead of retelling the same old tales of hackers versus corporations, writers can explore other ideas. What about a world where AI runs the government? Or a story about a city built entirely underwater to escape rising sea levels? hmmm. 

2. Focus on Characters. The best stories, no matter the genre, are about people. Writers can create compelling characters who draw readers into the cyberpunk world. Whether it's a single mom trying to protect her child in a dangerous city or a teenage inventor with a knack for hacking, relatable characters make any story better.

3. Encourage New Writers. A lot of people might want to write cyberpunk but feel unsure about where to start. Platforms like Wattpad, writing workshops, and online forums can help new writers build their confidence and share their ideas.

Why Cyberpunk still cool?

Cyberpunk isn't just about technology—it's about humanity. It asks tough questions about how we live, who we trust, and what makes us human in a world full of machines. These are ideas that never go out of style, which means cyberpunk will always have a place in science fiction.

Cyberpunk might seem quiet, but it's far from dead. The genre is evolving, and that's a good thing. Writers and readers are finding new ways to explore cyberpunk worlds, blending them with other genres and updating them for today's world.

So, if you've ever dreamed of writing about neon-lit cities, rogue hackers, or AI with an attitude, now's your chance. 

https://youtu.be/qIcTM8WXFjk