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NieR: Automata Unveils Diverse Playable Roster

by Blake Jan 24,2025

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NieR: Automata's narrative unfolds across three distinct playthroughs. While the first two share similarities, the third playthrough reveals significant story elements not seen in earlier playthroughs.

The game features multiple endings, some more detailed than others. Accessing certain endings requires playing as a specific character and completing particular actions. Here's a breakdown of the three playable characters and how to switch between them.

All Playable Characters In NieR: Automata

The story centers around 2B, 9S, and A2. 2B and 9S are partners and have the most screen time, depending on the playthrough. Each character boasts a unique combat style, offering a fresh experience even with the same chip loadouts. While all three are playable, switching isn't always straightforward.

How To Switch Characters In NieR: Automata

Character selection is fixed during the initial playthroughs:

  • Playthrough 1: 2B
  • Playthrough 2: 9S
  • Playthrough 3: 2B/9S/A2, with the story dictating which character you control.

Completing a main ending unlocks Chapter Select. This allows you to choose any of the 17 chapters and replay them as different characters. Numbers to the right of the screen indicate completed/incomplete side quests. If a character shows a number for a chapter, you can replay that chapter as that character.

Note that later chapters, particularly in Playthrough 3, restrict character selection. Chapter Select lets you change characters freely, but you're limited to sections where that character was playable in the main storyline. Saving before chapter changes ensures progress carries over, allowing you to level up all three characters' shared levels simultaneously.

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