NieR: A Love Letter to Gaming Innovation
For a passionate gamer, pinpointing a single all-time favorite title is akin to choosing a star in the cosmos—each one unique and brilliant in its own way. Reflecting on the RPG majesty of Mass Effect 2 or the post-apocalyptic charm of Fallout: New Vegas brings back a wave of nostalgia. Yet, it’s the enigmatic splendor of Elden Ring that recently captured the imagination with its vast, intricate world and gripping combat.
But through the lens of time and play, one game continues to resonate on a profound level: NieR: Automata. This masterpiece, a 2017 sequel to the original NieR, is the brainchild of PlatinumGames, Square Enix, and Yoko Taro, the visionary behind Drakengard. And for those seeking to immerse themselves in its depth, Green Man Gaming offers the Game of the YoRHa Edition for a mere (previously ), while Xbox enthusiasts can dive in for the same price. The prequel’s elaborate remake, NieR Replicant ver.1.22474487139…, is also available at a generous discount.
Discussing NieR: Automata without revealing its secrets is a challenge, but it’s a journey worth taking unspoiled. Set in a distant future ravaged by alien machines, humanity’s last hope lies with a trio of androids: the stoic 2B, the buoyant 9S, and the fiery A2. This narrative unfolds over roughly 20 hours, but to truly grasp its intricacies, one must invest between 40-60 hours. Each ending broadens the perspective, offering new insights and narrative threads upon reloading your save.
The game’s unconventional structure is matched by its profound storytelling, exceptional voice acting, and an award-winning soundtrack that elevates the experience to new heights. With a gameplay that flawlessly combines melee action with bullet hell elements, the variety of weapons and support Pod skills ensures a constantly evolving combat experience. Side quests enrich this tapestry, though a few fall into the mundane “fetch quest” category, most contribute to the world’s lore and character development.
Not to be overshadowed, the 2021 remake of NieR Replicant stands tall, offering an action-packed and emotionally charged prequel. It portrays the struggle of a brother to save his sister from a deadly disease, set in an era long before Automata’s events. The game boasts revamped gameplay, a remastered score, and a visual overhaul that aligns it with Automata’s aesthetic—a style that’s more artistic than hyper-realistic but nonetheless captivating.
With each title currently at their lowest prices, it’s an opportune moment for newcomers and seasoned players alike to explore these unique worlds. Such discounts are rare, and with the PC offers expiring on May 8 and the Xbox deals concluding on May 6, the window to seize these games at a bargain is limited. So, whether you’re drawn to the enigmatic allure of Automata or the familial bonds in Replicant, these adventures promise to deliver an unforgettable gaming odyssey.
