After receiving a diagnosis of Stage Three Lung Cancer on his way from work, our protagonist John Fray is let go from his Job. Unable to find work due to his preexisting condition, John is forced back onto the streets where he meets an old friend.

After having no other options to turn to, John decides to become a Street Samurai as he learns the harsh realities of Night City. While trying to make a living with the help of his friends. Slowly dying from his condition and unable to pay for treatments, John gradually takes higher paying jobs in order to make his payments.