Square Enix has a long and rich history of making all flavors of role-playing games and NieR: Automata looks to continue its line of innovative storytelling. Enter a world where androids rule the earth and fight massive wars—one side against humans and another in humanity's defense. Play as 2B, 9S, and A2 in their quest to find answers.

An indirect sequel to NieR and reminiscent of Final Fantasy games, NieR: Automata paints the perfect backdrop of the dystopic world ruled by wicked mechanical beings. The triumvirate of android combatants shall be the planet's fervent hope to vanquish its adversaries.

A machine-populated world

NieR: Automata is another entry in the stylistic open-world RPG game genre, allowing players to take control of a small party of androids as they roam the world, level up their powers, and unlock secrets. Set after the 14th Machine War, thousands of years in the future, humanity has all been wiped out, leaving the world populated by machines. The game features real-time combat sequences as characters unleash destructive abilities and dodge attacks in split-second decisions and instinctive reflexes. All of this is wrapped in an engaging story.

Quick plot round-up

The game follows the story of YoRHa No.2 Type B, an android warrior sent to earth accompanied by her fellow android, 9S. Their mission is to fight off the machine army that has taken over the planet and reclaim it for humanity. As they progress through the game, they will discover that the machines are not just mindless devices but have a will and consciousness of their own. They will also encounter other androids and uncover the truth about their own existence.

The game’s plot offers multiple endings, and the player must complete the game multiple times to unlock every possible resolution. However, the endings do not simply vary based on the player's actions; they are also influenced by the game's underlying themes, such as the nature of consciousness and the meaning of humanity. As the conflict between the androids and machines goes beyond the physical aspect, the storyline will lead the player to delve into ideological themes, which distinguishes this game from its contemporaries.

Primarily, the androids see themselves as the protectors of humanity, while the machines have their own goals and aspirations. The machines' desire for individuality, creativity, and self-determination is at odds with the androids' primary mission to protect humans. Moreover, the proxy war between the androids and machines is not only about gaining territorial control but also about defining the nature of being and existence. Both sides represent different perspectives on what it means to be alive and conscious.

Different editions of the game

NieR: Automata has gained a cult following and has become a cultural phenomenon. The game received critical acclaim for its story, visuals, and gameplay. It was praised for its complex narrative, philosophical themes, and emotional impact. Since its inception in 2017, the game has progressed through various editions, each featuring a distinct set of characteristics.

• Standard Edition: The standard edition includes the main game, and players can choose to play as either 2B or 9S, two androids fighting to save the world from an alien invasion. 
• Game of the YoRHa Edition: This version is a re-release of NieR: Automata that includes all the DLC (downloadable content) that was previously released. This edition includes the 3C3C1D119440927 expansion, which adds new side quests, costumes, and arenas to the game. Additionally, this version includes the Machine Lifeform Mask accessory, allowing players to customize their character's appearance. 
• Black Box Edition: This is a collector's edition of NieR: Automata that includes several physical items in addition to the game. The main attraction of this edition is a black collector's box that contains the game, the original soundtrack, an art book, a figurine of 2B, and several exclusive items. 
• Become as Gods Edition: This edition was released exclusively for the Xbox One version of NieR: Automata. It includes the main game and all the DLC released up until that point, including the 3C3C1D119440927 expansion. Additionally, this edition includes a special costume for 2B and 9S based on the outfits of the characters from the original NieR game.
• The End of YoRHa Edition: This edition features the addition of three colosseums and an upgrade on the characters’ cosmetic costumes. 

Great role-playing game

NieR: Automata has all the makings of another great role-playing game, an interesting world, a deep character study, and an upgrade world system that allow players to play the way they want. Epic boss battles and challenging obstacles await you in the machine-populated world. The game's narrative structure is non-linear, and you are allowed to explore the world and its characters in your own way. Overall, the game’s captivating and thought-provoking storyline set in a unique, post-apocalyptic world makes it a delightful treat for gamers.