Quick Links
NieR: Automata's narrative unfolds across three distinct playthroughs. While the first two playthroughs share significant overlap, the third playthrough reveals substantial 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 how to switch between them.
All Playable Characters In NieR: Automata
The core characters of NieR: Automata are 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, offering 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. This mode allows character selection and revisiting any of the game's 17 chapters. Numbers displayed next to chapters indicate completed/incomplete side quests. If a character is associated with a chapter (indicated by numbers), you can replay that chapter as that character.
Note that some later chapters, particularly in playthrough 3, restrict character selection. Chapter Select allows for character changes, but you must navigate to story points where that character was originally playable. Saving before changing chapters ensures progress carries over, enabling simultaneous leveling of all three characters' shared levels.
