NieR: Automata is one of the most singular games ever made — a collaboration between director Yoko Taro and PlatinumGames that delivers exceptional hack-and-slash combat, a haunting post-apocalyptic world, and a story that fundamentally changes what you think it is across three mandatory playthroughs. Set in a future where humanity has fled to the Moon after alien-made machines conquered Earth, you play as android 2B and her companion 9S, fighting to reclaim the planet for humanity.
The game's structure is intentionally deceptive: the first playthrough (Route A) tells one story. The second playthrough (Route B) replays most of the same events from 9S's perspective — adding new information that recontextualizes every scene you thought you understood. Route C delivers the true finale, revealing the nature of the conflict and its participants in ways that have made NieR: Automata one of gaming's most discussed works on consciousness, purpose, and what makes life meaningful.
The soundtrack, composed by Keiichi Okabe, is universally considered one of the greatest in game history — dynamic tracks that shift between vocal, orchestral, and electronic arrangements based on gameplay context, with individual themes for each character and location that reward attentive listening.
Three required playthroughs that each reveal new perspectives and truths — do not stop after Route A. The game's full story can only be understood by completing all three routes.
Fast, fluid hack-and-slash action with swords, spears, and Pod support drones. Seamlessly shifts between ground combat, aerial combat, and bullet-hell sequences.
Keiichi Okabe's score is widely considered one of gaming's greatest — dynamic arrangements shift between vocal, orchestral, and electronic based on gameplay context.
Modify your android systems with Chips that alter HUD elements, passive abilities, and even core system functions. You can literally remove your own OS Chip to see what happens.
Release facts, mechanics and boss details on this page were checked against these sources on 12 October 2026. Spotted an error? Tell us.