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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 initial completion.
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 playthrough progression. Each character possesses a unique combat style, offering varied gameplay experiences 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 not freely available 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 enables replaying 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 chapter, that chapter can be replayed as that character.
Note that some later chapters, primarily in playthrough 3, restrict playable characters, regardless of Chapter Select. While Chapter Select allows character changes, the story progression must align with the chosen character's availability in the main storyline. Saving before changing chapters ensures progress carries over, allowing simultaneous leveling of all three characters toward the maximum level.
