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NieR: Automata's narrative unfolds through three distinct playthroughs. While the initial two playthroughs share considerable content, the third playthrough reveals additional layers of the story, extending beyond the first set of credits.
To fully experience the game, completing all three main playthroughs is essential. The game features multiple endings, varying from comprehensive to brief, with some requiring specific actions from particular characters. Below, you'll find details on the three playable characters and instructions on how to switch between them.
All Playable Characters In NieR: Automata
NieR: Automata's storyline centers around three main characters: 2B, 9S, and A2. 2B and 9S form a partnership, often sharing the spotlight throughout the playthroughs. Each character boasts a unique combat style, enriched by different mechanics, ensuring a fresh experience even when using the same plug-in chips across playthroughs. 2B, 9S, and A2 are all accessible throughout the game, though switching between them isn't always straightforward.
How To Switch Characters In NieR: Automata
In your initial playthrough, character switching isn't an option. The designated characters for each playthrough are:
- Playthrough 1 - 2B
- Playthrough 2 - 9S
- Playthrough 3 - 2B/9S/A2, with the story dictating when you switch between them.
Upon reaching one of the main endings, you unlock Chapter Select mode, which allows you to choose your playable character. Through Chapter Select, you can revisit any of the game's 17 chapters. The numbers on the right side of the screen indicate completed or incomplete side quests for each character, allowing you to replay chapters with different characters if those numbers are present.
In the later chapters, particularly in the third playthrough, some sections are locked to specific characters. Using Chapter Select, you can switch characters at any time, but you must navigate to a chapter where that character was originally playable in the main storyline. Remember to save before changing chapters; progress made in Chapter Select mode will carry over, helping you level up the shared levels of all three characters as you strive for the maximum level.