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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. Below, we detail the three playable characters and the method for switching between them.
All Playable Characters In NieR: Automata
The 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 boasts a unique combat style, offering a fresh experience even with identical plug-in chips. All three are playable, but character switching isn't always immediate.
How To Switch Characters In NieR: Automata
Character selection isn't freely available during the initial playthrough. The character assignments are:
- Playthrough 1: 2B
- Playthrough 2: 9S
- Playthrough 3: 2B/9S/A2 (story-driven switching)
Completing a main ending unlocks Chapter Select mode, allowing character selection. Chapter Select lets you revisit any of the game's 17 chapters. Numbers displayed beside chapters indicate completed or incomplete side quests. If a character shows numbers for a specific chapter, you can replay that chapter as that character.
Note that later chapters, particularly in Playthrough 3, restrict character selection. While Chapter Select offers flexibility, you must choose chapters where the selected character was playable during the main storyline. Saving before changing chapters ensures progress carries over, allowing you to level up all three characters' shared levels towards the maximum.
