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NieR: Automata's narrative unfolds across three distinct playthroughs. While the first two share significant overlap, the third playthrough reveals a wealth of additional story content beyond the initial credits.
Although the game features three main playthroughs leading to multiple endings, some endings require playing as a specific character and completing particular actions. Below, we detail the three playable characters and the method for switching between them.
All Playable Characters In NieR: Automata
The core of NieR: Automata's story centers around 2B, 9S, and A2. 2B and 9S are partners, and their screen time varies depending on the playthrough. Each character boasts a unique combat style, adding depth and replayability even with identical plug-in chips. While all three are playable, switching isn't always immediate.
How To Switch Characters In NieR: Automata
Character selection is fixed during the initial playthrough:
- Playthrough 1: 2B
- Playthrough 2: 9S
- Playthrough 3: 2B/9S/A2, with character switching dictated by the storyline.
Completing a main ending unlocks Chapter Select, allowing character selection. Chapter Select enables revisiting any of the game's 17 chapters. Numbers displayed to the right of the screen indicate completed/incomplete side quests. If a character shows numbers for a specific chapter, that chapter can be replayed as that character.
Note that later chapters, particularly in playthrough 3, restrict character choices. While Chapter Select offers flexibility, it's crucial to navigate to story points where the chosen character was originally playable. Saving before chapter changes ensures progress carries over, allowing for leveling up all three characters' shared levels towards the maximum.
