NieR: Automata - All Playable Characters

Quick Links

• 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 considerable overlap, the third playthrough reveals a wealth of additional story content beyond the initial credits.

Although the game features three main playthroughs leading to multiple endings, some endings require specific character playthroughs and actions. This guide details the three playable characters and the mechanics of switching between them.

All Playable Characters In NieR: Automata

The core characters of NieR: Automata are 2B, 9S, and A2. 2B and 9S, partners in the story, command significant screen time depending on the playthrough. Each character boasts a unique fighting style, adding depth to gameplay even with consistent plug-in chips. All three are playable, but character switching isn't always immediate.

How To Switch Characters In NieR: Automata

Character selection is fixed during the initial playthrough:

• Playthrough 1: 2B
• Playthrough 2: 9S
• Playthrough 3: 2B/9S/A2, with character changes dictated by the storyline.

Completing a main ending unlocks Chapter Select mode, allowing character selection. Chapter Select enables revisiting any of the 17 chapters. Numbers displayed to the right of the screen indicate completed/incomplete side quests for each character. If a character shows numbers for a chapter, that chapter can be replayed as that character.

Note that later chapters, particularly in Playthrough 3, restrict character selection. While Chapter Select allows character changes, you must navigate to story points where that character was originally playable. Saving before changing chapters ensures progress carries over, allowing shared level progression for all three characters.