Home >  News >  Discoverable Characters Unveiled in NieR: Automata

Discoverable Characters Unveiled in NieR: Automata

by Jason Jan 27,2025

Quick Links

NieR: Automata's narrative unfolds across three distinct playthroughs. While the first two playthroughs share significant 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 playing as a specific character and completing unique actions. This guide details the three playable characters and how to switch between them.

All Playable Characters In NieR: Automata

The story centers around 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 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 predetermined during the initial playthroughs:

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

Completing a main ending unlocks Chapter Select mode, allowing character selection. This mode lets you revisit any of the game's 17 chapters. Numbers displayed beside chapters indicate completed/incomplete side quests. If a character shows a number for a specific 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 navigate to story points where that character was originally playable. Saving before changing chapters ensures progress carries over, enabling level progression for all three characters.