Glory to Mankind: A Deep Dive Review into NieR: Automata

Few games in the modern era have achieved the cult-classic status and philosophical depth of NieR: Automata. Directed by the enigmatic Yoko Taro, this title from PlatinumGames is not just an action RPG; it’s a profound narrative experience that masterfully blends genres and challenges the player’s perception of life, consciousness, and humanity.

This review will cover its compelling story, unique gameplay mechanics, available platforms, current pricing, and the PC system requirements needed to join the fight for Earth.

The Story: What is NieR: Automata About?

NieR: Automata is set in a distant, post-apocalyptic future where humanity has been forced to flee to the Moon. The culprits? A terrifying army of “machines” deployed by alien invaders.

To reclaim the planet, humanity created “YoRHa,” an elite military force of androids. The story primarily follows two of these androids:

• 2B: A calm, collected, and composed female-model android specializing in close-quarters combat.
• 9S: A male-model “Scanner” unit, more emotional and inquisitive, who specializes in hacking and reconnaissance.

Their mission is simple: “Glory to Mankind.” They are to fight and destroy the machines to make Earth safe for humanity’s return.

However, what begins as a straightforward proxy war quickly unravels. 2B and 9S encounter machines that exhibit strange, almost human-like behaviors—fear, community, and even rudimentary consciousness. The game forces you to question the rigid lines between android and machine, creator and created, and what it truly means to be “alive.”

A key feature: The game has 26 different endings (one for each letter of the alphabet). While many are joke endings, the main story requires multiple playthroughs (Routes A, B, and C/D) to see the full narrative, with each route revealing new perspectives and shocking truths.

How to Play: Genre-Bending Gameplay

At its core, NieR: Automata is a fast-paced action RPG built on PlatinumGames’ signature “hack-and-slash” combat. But it refuses to be confined to one genre.

1. Fluid Combat: You have light and heavy attacks, a crucial dodge mechanic that rewards perfect timing, and a floating tactical “Pod” that provides ranged fire support and special abilities.
2. Genre Shifting: The game’s most unique feature is its shifting camera perspective, which changes the gameplay style entirely:
   • 3D Action-RPG: The standard open-world exploration and combat.
   • 2.5D Side-Scroller: In certain buildings or areas, the camera locks, turning the game into a classic platformer.
   • Top-Down “Bullet-Hell” Shooter: During many boss fights or specific sequences (especially flight-suit sequences), the screen fills with enemy projectiles, forcing you to navigate and shoot like in a classic arcade “shmup.”
3. RPG Customization (Plug-in Chips): This is the core of progression. Instead of traditional armor, you equip “Plug-in Chips.” These chips can do anything from increasing your attack power and health to displaying the mini-map, showing enemy HP, or even enabling an auto-dodge. You have limited memory space, forcing you to make strategic choices about your build.
4. Hacking (9S Gameplay): When playing as 9S, you can “hack” enemies. This initiates a small, top-down shooter mini-game. Succeeding can cause the machine to explode, be controlled, or be converted to an ally.

Platforms & Price: Where Can You Play It?

NieR: Automata is widely available on all major platforms, often in an updated “Game of the YoRHa” or equivalent edition that includes DLC.

• Platforms:
  • PlayStation 4
  • Xbox One (Also playable on Xbox Series X/S via backward compatibility)
  • PC (Steam & Microsoft Store)
  • Nintendo Switch (as the “The End of YoRHa Edition”)
• Price: The price varies significantly based on the platform, region, and current sales (it is frequently discounted).As of late 2025, the standard full price for the complete editions (like the “Game of the YoRHa Edition” or “The End of YoRHa Edition”) typically hovers around $39.99 USD / €39.99. However, it is very common to find it on sale for 50% off or more ($19.99 or less).

PC System Requirements

To run the game on a computer, you will need to meet the following specifications. The “Become as Gods Edition” (available on the Microsoft Store) or the “Game of the YoRHa Edition” (on Steam) are the standard PC versions.

Minimum Requirements (720p at 30fps)

• OS: Windows 7 / 8.1 / 10 (64-bit)
• Processor (CPU): Intel Core i3 2100 or AMD A8-6500
• Memory (RAM): 8 GB
• Graphics (GPU): NVIDIA GeForce GTX 770 (2GB VRAM) or AMD Radeon R9 270X (2GB VRAM)
• DirectX: Version 11
• Storage: 50 GB available space

Recommended Requirements (1080p at 60fps)

• OS: Windows 10 (64-bit)
• Processor (CPU): Intel Core i5 6500 or AMD Ryzen 5 1400
• Memory (RAM): 16 GB
• Graphics (GPU): NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1060 (6GB VRAM) or AMD Radeon RX 580 (8GB VRAM)
• DirectX: Version 11
• Storage: 50 GB available space

Conclusion: Is NieR: Automata Worth It?

Absolutely. NieR: Automata is more than just a game; it’s a philosophical journey wrapped in a stylish, fast-paced action package. Its incredible, haunting soundtrack, deep and tragic story, and innovative blend of gameplay styles make it a mandatory experience for anyone who believes video games can be art.

Be prepared: it will challenge you, it might confuse you, and it will almost certainly make you feel a profound sense of existential wonder.

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