Six spoiler-free tips and strategies you need to know before starting Nier: Automata

Nier: Automata, the latest title from Square Enix and PlatinumGames, releases tomorrow. If you are looking for an engrossing RPG to dive into, yet are not willing to skimp the option of intense action-orientated gameplay, then this might just be the game for you.

After spending the last fortnight trekking across Yoko Taro’s wonderfully bizarre sci-fi world, there’s several things I’ve learnt that would be of help for first-time adventurers looking to pick up the game this weekend. Each of these six tips will benefit you in different ways, and most importantly – there’s no spoilers ahead! (And if you have any gameplay advice after playing the game yourself, drop them in the comments section below!)

1. You don’t need to have played the original

Yes, Nier: Automata is a sequel. But you needn’t have played, or had any knowledge of, the original. This game offers a brand new story set hundreds of years after the original Nier. In this new instalment, Earth is being attacked by machines from another world. 2B, the main protagonist, is an android sent to Earth by a unit force named YoRHa to help humanity reclaim the planet from the invaders. While fans of the first title will be aware of a few nods here and there, knowledge of the first game is absolutely not required to enjoy Nier: Automata’s story!

2. The game’s combat caters for multiple playstyles, so make sure to experiment with weapon sets

In true PlatinumGames fashion, the combat of Nier: Automata is full of impressive and over-the-top combos! Through the game, you can allocate two sets of two weapons of your choosing — you can even toggle these sets mid-combo for even more variety! Feel free to experiment with these sets and the combat system; there are many opportunities for diverse playstyles with different types of weapons equipped.

3. Collect and install computer chips to alter your abilities and perks – and you’re free to change at any time

The main characters of Nier: Automata are androids, and their combat abilities can be conveniently customised with plug-in chips. You will find a lot of different chips during your journey, and you can allocate them to 2B to give her new abilities, skills, and fully adapt your gameplay!

You can slow time when bullets come your way, get health points back as you inflict damage on your enemies, or even add shock waves to your weapon attacks. Alternatively you can play for fun, and add a distinct – and highly comedic – sound effect for individual enemies when you strike them!

But be wary, each chip has a storage value and will take a certain amount of space to be allocated, so you will need to carefully pick which chips you prefer to use within that space. Good news however: you can change your set at any time, and upgrading the size of your chip space is rather easy. You can also fuse chips together to make them stronger or prioritise smaller storage values, so dive in the system to find the perfect balance for your gameplay style!

4. If you need to earn extra money, go fishing

Nier: Automata’s underwater world is full of all kinds of fish just waiting to be caught. If you find yourself short on money and really want that new weapon at the shop, take a small fishing trip for a fun mini-game. It’ll be well worth it!

5. The game’s an open-world JRPG; explore thoroughly to discover secrets

Nier: Automata isn’t just an action game, it is very much an open-world JRPG, so don’t forget to fully explore it. As you travel, you’ll stumble on hidden shrines that will reward you with new weapons, as well as hidden areas with unique NPCs and even Easter eggs.

6. The ending credits are only the start of the adventure

Lastly – but probably the most important point of all – the game’s not finished come the credits. Similar to the original, your first playthrough reveals less than half of the full story. Keep playing: there’s much more to discover.