'NieR: Automata' Review: Game Is a Shapeshifter That Spurs Optimism
Square Enix and Platinum Games' post-apocalyptic action role-playing game (RPG) "NieR: Automata" has been released in PlayStation 4 consoles for some days now, and it has continued to amass a loyal fan base behind it. Critics weigh down on why it is so, and they all agreed that the title brings a rather unique experience that deserves a chance to be seen.
Empire says that the game is somewhat a chameleon in many ways. At one point of the story, the player controls the main protagonist, 2B, in an action RPG mode and then suddenly plunges into what feels like a 2D platformer. Just when things get comfortable, the player drops into a top-down shooter, and then eventually is introduced to an open world.
It's not just the gameplay that changes, but almost everything. The way the characters do battle is never linear, as one can employ a flowing combination of melee, long-range and evasive maneuvers to overpower foes. Each weapon has a different feel, and so is the many possibilities one can achieve with chips obtained throughout the game.
Get Our Latest News for FREE
Speaking of battles, this is something that The Verge truly applauds. It describes the battle sequences as a ballet, where everything is truly graceful, coordinated and on point. Even climbing ladders usually appear as tedious, but "NieR: Automata" presents it with elegance and style.
Perhaps the more important positive point of the game is how it evokes emotions, when supposedly the characters shouldn't be displaying any. The background music paired with a compelling story makes one immerse oneself further into its world.
Ultimately, Games Radar sees more than just gameplay and story in the title, but highlights on its heart. The way the title encourages the player to go on despite things appearing bleak gives a sheer boost of optimism, and it presents a wonderful reward in the end.
From other people's eyes, the title promises a combination of all kinds of experiences, both superficial and deep. It will now be up to the players to ultimately decide if it is right up their alley.
