Nier Automata How Long to Beat and Completion Time
NieR: Automata stands as one of the most distinctive action RPGs in modern gaming, captivating players with its fluid combat and multi-layered storytelling. Understanding how long it takes to complete the adventure depends heavily on how deeply you engage with its unique route structure. Whether you plan to rush through the primary narrative or collect every piece of lore, preparing your time commitment helps ensure a rewarding experience.
Main Story and Initial Playthrough Time
Reaching the first set of credits, known as Ending A, generally requires about 15 to 20 hours of focused gameplay. During this initial run, players control the android 2B and experience the foundational narrative arc while getting accustomed to the core action mechanics. Focusing strictly on main quests allows for a swift journey, though skipping side content can leave your character underleveled for future sections.
However, seeing the initial credits represents only a portion of the entire narrative provided by director Yoko Taro. Players who want to understand the overarching plot must continue into subsequent playthroughs. These additional routes introduce new perspectives, distinct gameplay elements, and fresh story beats that expand the universe significantly.
Reaching the True Narrative Endings
To experience the complete story through Endings A through E, most players invest between 35 and 40 hours. Route B retells events from a different viewpoint, while Route C serves as a direct sequel to the previous chapters. This multi-route design keeps the gameplay dynamic and prevents the campaign from feeling like repetitive back-tracking.
Completing these core routes guarantees you see the true climax of the androids' journey. Engaging in optional side quests during these playthroughs provides valuable experience points, upgrade materials, and crucial narrative context. Balancing main missions with helpful side tasks keeps progression smooth across all major routes.
Full Completionist and 100% Time Commitment
For dedicated players seeking full completion, NieR: Automata offers roughly 60 to 80 hours of total gameplay. Achieving 100% completion requires collecting all 33 weapons, discovering all 26 endings, fully upgrading your Pods, and filling out the archive data. The game features 21 secret or comedic endings alongside the five primary story conclusions.
Hunter enthusiasts can also tackle high-level arena challenges, secret bosses, and fishing logs to maximize their playtime. Players looking to manage their gaming schedule can check various playthrough benchmarks before jumping into the wasteland. Utilizing chapter select unlocked late in the game streamlines collectible hunting, making complete completion far more manageable.
Tips for Managing Your Playtime
If you want to optimize your time, prioritize important side quests during Route A and Route B. Upgrading your weapons early ensures combat encounters remain fast and manageable throughout late-game transitions. Taking advantage of fast travel options once unlocked helps cut down unnecessary travel time across the open world.
Remember that you do not need to rush through every ending in a single marathon session. Breaking your playthrough into distinct routes allows you to enjoy the narrative pacing without burning out. Setting realistic goals based on your interest level ensures an unforgettable trip through this post-apocalyptic world.