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NieR: Automata allows extensive exploration and side-quest completion between main story missions. Much content might seem missable on a first playthrough. Completing the game's main story is only the beginning; access to earlier side quests within the same save file unlocks after the true ending. Here's how to unlock and utilize Chapter Select.
This section contains minor spoilers related to achieving the true ending.
How To Unlock Chapter Select In NieR: Automata
Unlocking Chapter Select requires completing one of the game's true endings. This involves three playthroughs, culminating in an ending selection during the final confrontation of the third playthrough. While referred to as playthroughs, many consider each a distinct chapter in the overarching narrative.
After viewing the credits of a playthrough, save the game. Reload that save to begin the next section, playing as a different character. The final playthrough involves multiple character switches; its completion unlocks Chapter Select for that save file.
How Chapter Select Functions In NieR: Automata
Access Chapter Select from two locations:
- The main menu of the save file upon loading.
- Any access point within the game world.
This menu allows selection of any game chapter from the main story. All aspects of your profile – weapons, level, items – carry over. Character selection is also possible, provided the chosen chapter features multiple playable characters.
Note that completed side quests cannot be replayed, regardless of the chosen chapter. Utilize save points when transitioning between chapters to preserve progress; otherwise, any gains (levels, items) from the current chapter will be lost. Chapter Select facilitates comprehensive content completion and revisiting past choices to obtain all available endings.
