Cyberpunk 2077 offers a wide variety of cyberware that can drastically change the way players approach combat, stealth, and exploration. One of the most exciting and sought-after pieces of technology is the Optical Camo a powerful piece of cyberware that allows the user to become nearly invisible for a short period. Whether you’re sneaking through enemy territory or avoiding high-level enemies, equipping Optical Camo can be a game-changer. However, finding and equipping it can be a little tricky for new or even returning players. Understanding where to find it, how to install it, and how to use it effectively will ensure that this stealth-enhancing tech becomes a core part of your loadout in Night City.
What Is Optical Camo in Cyberpunk 2077?
Overview of the Cyberware
Optical Camo is a piece of cyberware that grants temporary invisibility to the user. It is categorized under the Operating System or Integumentary System cyberware slot depending on the update version you’re playing. This cyberware creates a visual distortion that makes it extremely difficult for enemies to detect the player while active, offering major benefits for stealth gameplay.
The Optical Camo is especially useful for netrunners, stealth assassins, or players who want to avoid open combat. When activated, it allows players to sneak past enemies, reposition themselves, or escape dangerous situations without being seen.
Where to Find Optical Camo
Ripperdocs in Night City
To equip Optical Camo, you must first acquire it by visiting specific Ripperdocs across Night City. Not all Ripperdocs carry Optical Camo, and availability can depend on your Street Cred level.
- Ripperdoc in Pacifica (West Wind Estate): This location often has Optical Camo in stock. It requires at leastStreet Cred 30+.
- Ripperdoc in Downtown City Center: Another reliable option for advanced cyberware like Optical Camo.
- Watson – Northside Ripperdoc: This early-game area may also offer Optical Camo if you’ve progressed far enough.
Keep in mind that different versions of the game or patches may affect vendor inventories. If one Ripperdoc doesn’t have it, check others periodically.
Requirements and Cost
Optical Camo usually costs around15,000 to 35,000 eddiesdepending on the rarity tier and your character’s Street Cred. It may also have stat prerequisites like Body or Technical Ability scores. Make sure to check the requirement before purchasing.
How to Equip Optical Camo
Installing the Cyberware
Once you’ve acquired Optical Camo from a Ripperdoc, follow these steps to equip it:
- Visit the Ripperdoc where you bought the item or any other Ripperdoc.
- Select theCyberwaremenu.
- Navigate to theIntegumentary Systemslot (or Operating System if using certain patches).
- Select Optical Camo and confirm installation.
After installation, the Optical Camo will be linked to your quick slot and must be activated during gameplay to use its effect.
Assigning to Quick Access Menu
For ease of use, it’s best to assign Optical Camo to your quick access item wheel:
- Open your inventory and go to theCyberware AbilitiesorQuick Accessmenu.
- Assign Optical Camo to one of the available quick-use slots.
- Use the shortcut (typically assigned to a D-pad button or hotkey) to activate it during missions.
Using Optical Camo in Combat and Stealth
Best Situations for Optical Camo
Knowing when to use Optical Camo is essential for getting the most out of it. It isn’t a tool you should spam it has limited duration and a cooldown. Use it strategically in the following situations:
- Infiltration: Slip past guards or cameras without alerting them.
- Combat repositioning: Disengage and find a better angle for attack.
- Escape tool: When overwhelmed, activate the camo and retreat safely.
The ability usually lasts between 10 and 15 seconds depending on its tier. Always monitor the cooldown and prepare for reactivation if necessary.
Combining with Other Builds
Optical Camo works well with certain character builds:
- Netrunners: Combine with quickhacks to move between cover without being seen.
- Stealth Assassins: Use it before lethal takedowns or sniping from hard-to-reach spots.
- Tech-based builds: Pair with tech weapons and mods that support silent takedowns or mobility.
It becomes especially deadly when combined with perks that increase sneak damage or reduce detection time.
Upgrading Optical Camo
Rarity Tiers
Like most cyberware, Optical Camo comes in different rarity levels:
- Rare: Basic invisibility effect, short duration.
- Epic: Longer invisibility time, faster cooldown.
- Legendary: Maximum duration and minimum cooldown ideal for frequent use.
Visit Ripperdocs as your Street Cred increases to see if they offer better versions. The Legendary variant can significantly change how you approach endgame combat scenarios.
Crafting and Mods
If you have high Technical Ability and crafting perks, you may be able to upgrade Optical Camo manually. Crafting materials and blueprints can sometimes be looted or bought from vendors.
Additionally, some updates introduce mods that can enhance cooldown reduction or duration. Keep an eye out for these enhancements when looting or browsing shops.
Tips and Tricks for Mastering Optical Camo
Timing and Positioning
Always activate Optical Camo before stepping into a heavily guarded area. It’s best used before enemies spot you. Once combat has started, some enemies may already track your movement even if you turn invisible, especially on higher difficulties.
Pair with Movement Speed Boosts
Consider combining camo with cyberware likeKerenzikovorReinforced Tendonsto move quickly while invisible. This allows you to cover more ground while remaining unseen.
Reload Before Activating
Since you can’t perform all actions while cloaked, reload your weapon or charge abilities before activating Optical Camo to make full use of its duration.
Optical Camo in Cyberpunk 2077 is more than just a flashy piece of cyberware it’s a powerful tactical tool that can drastically enhance stealth gameplay. From sneaking through guarded facilities to escaping overwhelming firefights, this invisibility tech gives you a significant advantage when used wisely. By knowing where to find it, how to equip it, and how to integrate it into your build, you’ll be one step closer to mastering the shadows of Night City. Equip it early, upgrade it often, and use it strategically to become a ghost in the urban sprawl.