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NieR: Automata's narrative unfolds across three distinct playthroughs. While the first two playthroughs 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 specific character choices and actions. This guide details 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, partners in the narrative, have the most significant screen time, depending on the playthrough. Each character possesses a unique combat style, ensuring a fresh experience 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 the story dictating character changes.
Completing a main ending unlocks Chapter Select mode, allowing character selection. Chapter Select lets you revisit any of the game's 17 chapters. Numbers displayed next to a chapter indicate completed/incomplete side quests. If a character has associated 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 must navigate to story points where that character was originally playable. Saving before changing chapters ensures progress carries over, allowing you to level up all three characters' shared levels simultaneously.
