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NieR: Automata's narrative unfolds across three distinct playthroughs. While the first two playthroughs share some common ground, the third playthrough reveals significant story elements not seen in the earlier stages.
The game features three main playthroughs leading to multiple endings, some more detailed than others. Accessing certain endings requires 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 story centers around 2B, 9S, and A2. 2B and 9S, partners in the narrative, command the most screen time, depending on the playthrough. Each character boasts a unique combat style, adding depth to gameplay even with identical plug-in chips. All three are playable, but character switching isn't always immediate.
How To Switch Characters In NieR: Automata
Character selection isn't free-flowing during the initial playthrough. The character assignments are:
- Playthrough 1: 2B
- Playthrough 2: 9S
- Playthrough 3: 2B/9S/A2, with the story dictating character changes.
Completing a main ending unlocks Chapter Select mode, allowing character selection. This mode lets you revisit any of the game's 17 chapters. Numbers to the right of the screen indicate completed/incomplete side quests. If a character shows numbers for a chapter, you can replay it as that character.
Note that later chapters, particularly in playthrough 3, restrict character choices. Chapter Select allows character changes, but you're limited to points in the story where that character was originally playable. Saving before changing chapters ensures progress carries over, enabling you to level up all three characters' shared experience towards the maximum level.
