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• All Playable Characters In NieR: Automata

• How To Switch Characters In NieR: Automata

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 earlier playthroughs.

Although the game features three main playthroughs leading to multiple endings, some endings require specific character 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 diverse gameplay experiences even with the same equipped chips. While all three are playable, switching isn't always straightforward.

How To Switch Characters In NieR: Automata

Character selection is fixed during the initial playthroughs:

• Playthrough 1: 2B
• Playthrough 2: 9S
• Playthrough 3: 2B/9S/A2, with the story dictating which character is controlled.

Completing a main ending unlocks Chapter Select. This allows you to choose any of the game's 17 chapters and replay them as different characters. Numbers displayed to the right of the screen indicate completed/incomplete side quests. If a character has associated numbers for a chapter, you can replay that chapter as that character.

Note that later chapters, particularly in playthrough 3, restrict character selection. Chapter Select allows for character changes, but you must select chapters where that character was originally playable. Saving before changing chapters ensures progress carries over, allowing you to level up all three characters' shared experience towards the maximum level.