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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 unseen in previous runs, extending the experience well beyond the initial credits.
Although the game features three main playthroughs leading to multiple endings, accessing certain endings requires playing as specific characters and completing particular 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, command the most screen time, depending on the playthrough. Each character boasts a unique combat style, offering diverse gameplay experiences even with identical plug-in chips. While all three are playable, character switching isn't always straightforward.
How To Switch Characters In NieR: Automata
Character selection is restricted during the initial playthrough:
- Playthrough 1: 2B
- Playthrough 2: 9S
- Playthrough 3: 2B/9S/A2 (switching is story-driven).
Completing a main ending unlocks Chapter Select mode, allowing character selection. This mode enables 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 later chapters, particularly in Playthrough 3, restrict character selection. Chapter Select allows character changes, but you must navigate to story points where that character was originally playable. Saving before switching chapters ensures progress carries over, enabling level progression for all three characters simultaneously.
