User Score
8.7

Generally favorable reviews- based on 529 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Negative: 38 out of 529
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  1. Aug 25, 2010
    10
    Nier is a awesome game. I give it 10/10.

    It is unique, dark, interesting, and insane. It is truely unique. I love this game. The soundtrack is so beautiful. How anyone can score this any lower than 10/10 is beyond me. The graphics are fine. It never slows down. That is something to say. It is a amazing story. A dark, intelligent and unique game. Brilliantly and well written. I love Nier. :)
  2. Jun 17, 2011
    10
    For the RPG fan. This game really makes you love all the characters, not in an over the top way like FFXIII either. graphics may be bad but if you want a good engaging RPG then this is definitely it. i bought this the same time i got darksiders (also a brilliant game) i played darksiders for an hour then turned on Nier. as soon as i saw the graphics in nier i wont lie i was eager to getFor the RPG fan. This game really makes you love all the characters, not in an over the top way like FFXIII either. graphics may be bad but if you want a good engaging RPG then this is definitely it. i bought this the same time i got darksiders (also a brilliant game) i played darksiders for an hour then turned on Nier. as soon as i saw the graphics in nier i wont lie i was eager to get back to darksiders.... however in actual fact darksiders stayed in its box for another month+. Nier has that "thing" that makes you go back for more, it has a brilliant story and cast and ending D is one of the best endings i have EVER seen in a game. if you doubt me that this is such a brilliant game just look at the user score, there the people who played it and got turned into fans. i bet the critics giving it a bad score diddnt even play it because the graphics diddnt look like it was COD. Expand
  3. Nov 28, 2010
    10
    (SPOILER FREE!!!)

    Wow what can I say! This game really is one of the best games of 2010. The story and characters are really great and touching. The graphical art style is fantastic.

    The combat is very fun.

    There are lots of optional sidequests throughout the game and there all different.

    The game probably has one of the most amazing beautiful ost's ever.
  4. Dec 5, 2010
    10
    2010 greatest gaming hidden gem. This game is one of the best, if not the best game to come out this year and deserves to be in ANY gamers collection.
  5. Jan 16, 2011
    10
    The best story and best soundtrack prizes for a game since 2000 must be awarded to this game. Altough game play mechanics are a little messed up, there is no game in 2008-2010 segment had achieved the quality of this title in its genre. Any review that scores this games music lower then 10 is sided, I can say that easily. At first I was afraid of platform gaming in rpg will not bode well,The best story and best soundtrack prizes for a game since 2000 must be awarded to this game. Altough game play mechanics are a little messed up, there is no game in 2008-2010 segment had achieved the quality of this title in its genre. Any review that scores this games music lower then 10 is sided, I can say that easily. At first I was afraid of platform gaming in rpg will not bode well, but carefully aligned difficulty levels makes it enjoyable. Also the primary element of rpg gaming has returned with this title back after years of waiting. It is creating burst of emotions in the player. This game really creates emotions (and can make you cry, can make you angered, can make you wishing for a good revenge) which was a lost but most important aspect of RPG gaming. I really can't understand the reviews it was taking. The revievers at major game magazines must have not played this game. If so, they really missed a great game even it wasn't for their taste. I wasn't full filled with any game released in last 5 years, but have full filled with this title. It's much much better then FFXIII, much better then star ocean and better then the lost odyssey. A word of advise go get it however you can. If not, know that you are losing the greatest story, greatest sound track and greatest emotions that a rpg game can offer... Expand
  6. Mar 25, 2011
    10
    It's one of the best games I have ever played!The atmosphere and story are incredible!The fighting is very addictive.Do yourself a favor and buy this! 9/10
  7. Apr 12, 2011
    10
    Nier completely surprised me, no, shocked me. I thought I was buying a decent action rpg by Square Enix and I found an incredible rpg with a soundtrack that could easily compete for the best of the genre's history, a story that moved me to play the game multiple times just to get all the possible endings (the last one left me speechless) and the ability to use mechanics from many genres toNier completely surprised me, no, shocked me. I thought I was buying a decent action rpg by Square Enix and I found an incredible rpg with a soundtrack that could easily compete for the best of the genre's history, a story that moved me to play the game multiple times just to get all the possible endings (the last one left me speechless) and the ability to use mechanics from many genres to differentiate its sections, ranging from survival horror to text adventure to shoot'em up. Its heroes were one of a kind, and I can guarantee that anyone who buy it will be blown away by the way this game handles its story.

    It hasn't the best production values of a Ps3 jrpg (it's quite mediocre, to put it bluntly), but anyone willing to look over the polygon count is in for a great ride, something that more polished home console rpgs haven't been able to deliver in this generation.
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  8. May 14, 2011
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. One of the best, if not the best, games of 2010. Nier is a deep, unique, artful, significant, Action RPG with a Bullet Hell twist and a tribute to Zelda and the likes. The story, music and the characters are among the best of its genre and the gameplay is refreshing. Expand
  9. May 16, 2011
    10
    Great game. This game reminds me alot of Illusion of Gaia. A different kind of RPG that is quirky, feels different and yet familar at the same time. Great soundtrack, I personally dont think the graphics are bad at all having grown up with the snes/ps1 and so on, and the gameplay keeps you interested.
  10. Dec 12, 2011
    10
    This game is one of the best games i have played. If you like Kingdom Hearts and God Of War, you will LOVE this game since it is a combo of both games. There is no other way to describe it. The story is beautiful accompanied by some beautiful music that just enchants the player. I dont know why people start hating on the graphics of this game but they are not as bad as they say. This gameThis game is one of the best games i have played. If you like Kingdom Hearts and God Of War, you will LOVE this game since it is a combo of both games. There is no other way to describe it. The story is beautiful accompanied by some beautiful music that just enchants the player. I dont know why people start hating on the graphics of this game but they are not as bad as they say. This game looks pretty good. The biggest problem i encountered with this game is its minor repetition having to do with traveling back to the same places but all is worth it as the story continues. i give it a 9/10! Great game Expand
  11. Sep 4, 2015
    10
    I think this is one of the most under appreciated game in video game history. If I remember correctly this game came out during an era of action game hype (God of War, Devil May Cry, Bayonetta), and with poor marketing, many game critics reviewed it as such when it is actually a story-driven action RPG.
    Most game websites bashed it for having awful combat compared to the above mentioned
    I think this is one of the most under appreciated game in video game history. If I remember correctly this game came out during an era of action game hype (God of War, Devil May Cry, Bayonetta), and with poor marketing, many game critics reviewed it as such when it is actually a story-driven action RPG.
    Most game websites bashed it for having awful combat compared to the above mentioned action hits. Well...OF COURSE it does. Even if you pit Zelda series against those action titles, its combat would be shallow.

    The game excels in its story, characters, atmosphere, music. The game play overall combines many genres. For the most part it's hack and slash action, then at one point you are solving block pushing puzzles from a birdseye view, and for many boss fights it suddenly becomes almost like a bullet-hell shooter!? Yeah, you can say it is a jack of all trades and master of none, but I personally appreciated the variety.

    If you are interested in the characteristics mentioned above and want to read a full, detailed review that does it justice, go to RPGfan. That review sold the game for me and I am grateful to them for introducing me to Nier.
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  12. Mar 3, 2012
    10
    Nier it's amazing in almost everything, the story it's freaking awensome, the character are really good, and the music it's soo good!, people, BUY this game, it's very good!
    Final: 10, a pure masterpiece.
  13. Jun 11, 2012
    10
    This game is a true gem. It is made by people who love games, not by people who wanna maximize profit. You feel that each moment you play this game. The characters are true, you really care for them, environments are beautifull,, soundtrack...well it's the best I have ever heard in a game (and I have been playing games for 30 years now). Story is original and encourages you to play on. ItThis game is a true gem. It is made by people who love games, not by people who wanna maximize profit. You feel that each moment you play this game. The characters are true, you really care for them, environments are beautifull,, soundtrack...well it's the best I have ever heard in a game (and I have been playing games for 30 years now). Story is original and encourages you to play on. It has four! different endings. Buy this game. you will not regret it.â Expand
  14. Jul 5, 2013
    10
    This game truly is special. The critic score is absurdly low. The first play through alone is worth getting it for. The second play through (which starts you at about the halfway point) is what elevates it to a truly phenomenal game. I won't spoil it, but the second play through really makes you think about the whole game differently. There's also a whole grimoire which can be found onlineThis game truly is special. The critic score is absurdly low. The first play through alone is worth getting it for. The second play through (which starts you at about the halfway point) is what elevates it to a truly phenomenal game. I won't spoil it, but the second play through really makes you think about the whole game differently. There's also a whole grimoire which can be found online which has a ton of the lore. One of my friends, who I think has the most insightful opinions about video games of anyone I know or have seen online, ranks Nier as one of his favorite games, and I can absolutely see why. It's not perfect, but it has a nice variety of different play styles, which actually mesh together quite nicely. As others have said, the music is fantastic as well. Depending on how much grinding you do, you may get tired of the music, but nevertheless it's still one of the best soundtracks I've heard. If you like RPGs/ARPGs, just pick it up... you won't be disappointed. Expand
  15. Jun 25, 2012
    10
    Nier isn't perfect. It's a game with mediocre gameplay and graphics. However, it really shines in both the soundtrack and story. This game made me feel things that I haven't felt since I played Silent Hill 2 for the first time. If you enjoy a good story and music, check this out. But make sure you at least get the second ending!
  16. Apr 27, 2013
    10
    One of the very few games I actually played until I had everything the game has to offer, including the platinum trophy. Despite the heavy grinding necessary to do that, the soundtrack managed to keep me motivated all through the process.

    Nier is a fantastic game. It may not be able to compete with the graphics of the latest Call of Duty or the combat of earlier Devil May Cry
    One of the very few games I actually played until I had everything the game has to offer, including the platinum trophy. Despite the heavy grinding necessary to do that, the soundtrack managed to keep me motivated all through the process.

    Nier is a fantastic game. It may not be able to compete with the graphics of the latest Call of Duty or the combat of earlier Devil May Cry installments, but this is one of the few games that has a real "soul". It's hard to explain. You have to experience it yourself or you will miss what is one of the greatest gaming experiences I've had in the past two decades.

    Even over a year after finishing it, I still listen to the soundtrack every now and then and check some of the best cutscenes on Youtube. I can't wait for Drakengard 3.
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  17. Aug 4, 2019
    10
    Graphics are bad, gameplay is repetitive... BUT, the story and the music are so great, that makes this game a masterpiece for me. Do not judge a book by its cover ^^
  18. Mar 30, 2020
    10
    The game looks average , is a bit long and can be a bit dry at times, but so what . A game should not be judged on it individual parts, but the experience as a whole. And as a whole Nier is amazing. I've heard people complain about hte combat, I don't know why, there's dozens of weapons and abilities to mix and match and smash the enemy to dust Feels good, variety and satisfaction, what'sThe game looks average , is a bit long and can be a bit dry at times, but so what . A game should not be judged on it individual parts, but the experience as a whole. And as a whole Nier is amazing. I've heard people complain about hte combat, I don't know why, there's dozens of weapons and abilities to mix and match and smash the enemy to dust Feels good, variety and satisfaction, what's missing???
    The crowning achievement is of course the mature, non compromising story, or stories, because as you play through Nier you uncover many fascinating characters and get drawn into their live and their stories and every one is enjoyable and compelling. The character have unfortuatly been tainted a bit by centain fans of the games over the years , making them out to be something they are not in the game and for this reason I really hope the game is never updated or remade. This is a game that was playable and great when it was released and will still be 20 years from now. If people want to experience this masterpiece they should experience the original vision , it's a game that was bold for its time and times have changed for the worse, censorship and offended snowflakes would destroy what makes Nier great.
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  19. Jun 25, 2013
    10
    there are many reasons to give this game a lower score...i kinda understand...
    BUT....is a soccer player worse because he got a weird name....because he doesn´t look like brad pitt? NO.
    Same with this game! What do you want from a game? is it the detailed landscape? the 100% real animation...sync on every villager?...if so...it´s not your game... if you want to experience an epic story,
    there are many reasons to give this game a lower score...i kinda understand...
    BUT....is a soccer player worse because he got a weird name....because he doesn´t look like brad pitt? NO.
    Same with this game! What do you want from a game? is it the detailed landscape? the 100% real animation...sync on every villager?...if so...it´s not your game...
    if you want to experience an epic story, with great characters....a twisted, dark, dead world.....it is your game!! it maybe is the game, you can´t compare it to many other games...it´s unique and great!
    in the game, i was taking care of my "daughter" every time i was in town...because i actually did care about her!
    the fights, monsters and equipment, all unique and great!
    and on top of all that, this epic soundtrack....
    give this game a chance! you might fall in love with it even in 2013...and i bet, if this game would have been released on ps2 ~2006, it would be a AAA+ Titel with press review around 92+
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  20. Nov 27, 2019
    10
    Идеальная игра! Жаль, что такую низку оценку поставили
  21. Sep 15, 2013
    10
    Amazing Game.
    Cryptic story, with a really dark and interesting background (Drakengard?)...character design is brilliant and the style of the game is really functional for the context and the story. The battle system is quite approximate, but it works.
    Dialogues sometimes are trivial or even superficial, but other are fantastic. Atmosphere is awesome and OST is a master piece, so perfect
    Amazing Game.
    Cryptic story, with a really dark and interesting background (Drakengard?)...character design is brilliant and the style of the game is really functional for the context and the story. The battle system is quite approximate, but it works.
    Dialogues sometimes are trivial or even superficial, but other are fantastic. Atmosphere is awesome and OST is a master piece, so perfect for the game, with such a deep personality and unique style.
    Truly an underrated gem.
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  22. Nov 7, 2013
    10
    For those seeking a game with an engaging story, interesting characters search no more, you have found it. The story and game atmosphere are for me, the games biggest strengths. If I would to compare this game to another it would be to Legacy of Kain: Soul Reaver, because of how the game is story-driven, of how it pulls you in, surprises and influences you. This game can bring out manlyFor those seeking a game with an engaging story, interesting characters search no more, you have found it. The story and game atmosphere are for me, the games biggest strengths. If I would to compare this game to another it would be to Legacy of Kain: Soul Reaver, because of how the game is story-driven, of how it pulls you in, surprises and influences you. This game can bring out manly tears, and unless you weren't paying any attention at all to the game it won't leave you indifferent to the characters. This is possible because of the characters, the dialog (level of a good novel), great voice acting, and fantastic music (which you will likely want to listen to a bit even outside of the game). It is also a game worth playing more than once, as the narrative changes a little on your next walkthrough.

    The gameplay (fighting mechanics etc.) itself is OK, but no more than that. The same can be said about the graphics.

    For me, this was a hidden gem, an experience that won't be forgotten for a long time. For those that like story-driven games, and accept good (not great) gameplay mechanics this is a must have.
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  23. Jan 4, 2014
    10
    NIER is, simply put, astounding.

    The gameplay, though not revolutionary, is fluent and engaging and the incorporation of magic into the combat is done in a less than conventional way to add a flavour of uniqueness to the gameplay. However, where the game shines brightest is the soundtrack, the story and the characters. The soundtrack is amazingly well crafted, in some ways quite
    NIER is, simply put, astounding.

    The gameplay, though not revolutionary, is fluent and engaging and the incorporation of magic into the combat is done in a less than conventional way to add a flavour of uniqueness to the gameplay.

    However, where the game shines brightest is the soundtrack, the story and the characters. The soundtrack is amazingly well crafted, in some ways quite simplistic but beautiful nonetheless and it suits the setting perfectly. The story is mature and quite emotional, as it tells the story of a man trapped in a dying world trying to save his daughter. There are some twists and turns along the way and altogether it makes for a very engaging experience.

    Finally, the characters. The primary protagonist is a middle-aged man who is, as stated previously, fighting to save his daughter. He's a hard worker and skilled warrior that makes his living by putting his skills to good use and hiring himself out to help the villagers that have showed he and his daughter so much kindness and charity in the past in whatever tasks they need help with, from doing their shopping and hunting down eggs (hidden by some very canny chickens) to taking on a ferocious wild boar. He is a hard man, also quite different from what some would expect from a JRPG in that he looks like he's being beaten over the head with an ugly stick.

    The interactions between the characters are terrific, in particular between our hero and Weiss, his floating companion. Overall, this game is terrific. I've loved it since I bought it and I think any RPG fan would enjoy it thoroughly.
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  24. Jun 12, 2014
    10
    I didn't have very high expectations from a game that was a spin off of another game. I figured it was just meant to ride the popularity of the Drakengard series. Boy, was I wrong! This game is amazing!!! From the awesome story and unique characters, to the great battle mechanics and the music, everything in this game stands out as truly remarkable.
    It's really strange how much the
    I didn't have very high expectations from a game that was a spin off of another game. I figured it was just meant to ride the popularity of the Drakengard series. Boy, was I wrong! This game is amazing!!! From the awesome story and unique characters, to the great battle mechanics and the music, everything in this game stands out as truly remarkable.
    It's really strange how much the critics slammed this game versus how much the players loved it. Four years since it's release, it's still standing strong. Any ARPG fan should play it!
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  25. Jan 7, 2020
    10
    NIER far exceeded my expectations going in. I only played it to get some background info on the world before playing NieR: Automata, but I was sucked in by the wonderful score, likable yet flawed characters, visually and conceptually interesting world, and compelling narrative. It can be a bit confusing at times, and the gameplay isn't anything to write home about (though it is pretty funNIER far exceeded my expectations going in. I only played it to get some background info on the world before playing NieR: Automata, but I was sucked in by the wonderful score, likable yet flawed characters, visually and conceptually interesting world, and compelling narrative. It can be a bit confusing at times, and the gameplay isn't anything to write home about (though it is pretty fun most of the time IMO). Still, the positives of the game far outway the negatives. Those positives make NIER well worth playing, not just as a tool to better understand Automata, but as a masterpiece in its own right. Expand
  26. May 5, 2015
    10
    This game has a great story and great characters.
    Very fun combat and lot's of things to do.
    One of my favorite games for 2010 !
    This game is also very innovative and addicting.
  27. Feb 18, 2015
    10
    Nier is a game to test true critics. On the outside it's an over hyped IP with an identity crisis, sub-par graphics, and a weird looking main character. But... Inside this game is an overwhelmingly emotional story, with fantastically unique characters, responsive controls, environments that intrigue your imagination, a supreme soundtrack that stands by itself, and a variety of game-playNier is a game to test true critics. On the outside it's an over hyped IP with an identity crisis, sub-par graphics, and a weird looking main character. But... Inside this game is an overwhelmingly emotional story, with fantastically unique characters, responsive controls, environments that intrigue your imagination, a supreme soundtrack that stands by itself, and a variety of game-play mechanics/styles that will leave any RPG fan begging for more. Nier is one of if not the best RPG(s) available on the 7th generation consoles. Expand
  28. Jul 30, 2015
    10
    NIER is one of the best RPGs of all time. When you start out, it can be incredibly frustrating, but when you accept the game and respect it for what it tries to accomplish, you will be rewarded with one of the most memorable experiences that you will ever have in gaming. Right off the bat, I will say.. PLAY THIS GAME ON HARD MODE. Any other difficulty level just does not show what thisNIER is one of the best RPGs of all time. When you start out, it can be incredibly frustrating, but when you accept the game and respect it for what it tries to accomplish, you will be rewarded with one of the most memorable experiences that you will ever have in gaming. Right off the bat, I will say.. PLAY THIS GAME ON HARD MODE. Any other difficulty level just does not show what this game has to offer. You will blow by the entire game thinking how shallow the gameplay is and how bad the graphics are, and will miss some of the games aspects like using magic timely, crafting or finding many of its ridiculously fun and varied weapons, or missing out on some genuinely fun (if not flawed) quests. Hard mode however, requires you to know the gameplay mechanics inside and out. It can be frustrating as hell, but like the Souls serious which is praised for doing the same thing, Hard mode in this game can be incredibly rewarding. Boss fights are as intricate and fast paced as games like DMC, Monster Hunter, etc. The characters, story, and insane plot are the most twisted I've seen in gaming since Metal Gear Solid. The music! I honestly did not move one from certain dialogues between characters in more than one occassion just because the music was perfect and really gives the game its own charm. The game also tries to experiment with some platforming ideas, visual novel game play, bullet hell areas, and even fishing. I will say that the world can be quite small, and there can be a lot of back tracking, but nothing too out of the ordinary of a game like Legend of Zelda Ocarina of Time. Graphics-wise, this game is a let down I will admit. I personally found the graphics charming since it reminded me of an old retro game back in the ps2 era, but being a game for ps3 I see how it can go under fire about this. While this game is definitely not for everyone, it really does reward the most loyal and hardcore RPG fans that stay with it until one of the most satisfying endings of all time. It has 4 endings all of which you would give you the most complete story and experience, and even though you will definitely go through frustrating experiences, stick with it and I promise you it will be worth it. I recommend this game for hardcore players of games like Dark Souls and Dragon's Dogma, but with an amazing story and cast of characters that you won't forget. Just listening to the amazing OST is reason enough to play the game through until the ending (let alone four times!). Overall, this has been one of the most memorable experiences I have ever had as a gamer, and if you give it a real chance to master its intricate gameplay (on hard mode), and you follow the story along until the end, I guarantee you will love this game, 9.5/10. Happy gaming! Expand
  29. Sep 21, 2018
    10
    After 8 years, it's still the most beautiful thing I've ever experienced. Give it a try if you can handle JRPGs, tragedy, and research outside of the game to put all of the pieces together (after you've completed it). The game has something special that no other piece of entertainment has matched yet. It might just become your favorite too.
  30. Jul 30, 2023
    10
    Everytime you hear or read something about the Drakengard franchise the name "Taro Yoko" pops up. Yoko Taro-san was not the single writer of the story of Nier 1 (the story was also written by Sawako Natori and Kikuchi Hana) but he was the director. Nevertheless, the story is probably one of the most emotional and touching stories dragging you into a game world that you will ever get toEverytime you hear or read something about the Drakengard franchise the name "Taro Yoko" pops up. Yoko Taro-san was not the single writer of the story of Nier 1 (the story was also written by Sawako Natori and Kikuchi Hana) but he was the director. Nevertheless, the story is probably one of the most emotional and touching stories dragging you into a game world that you will ever get to know. Whether it is Nier Replicant, the version where Nier is a 16-year old brother of the girl Yonah or the almost 40 year old father of Yonah in Nier Gestalt, the connection between the two will surely get you at some point. I in particular recommend the father version because that in my opinion is the true gold of the franchise and qualifies as the second best game of all time for me. The story about a father/brother doing everything for his daughter/sister to find a cure for her and at the same time being introduced to a world that is overall very much to be pitied, highlighted by one of the best soundtracks you can find in a game will keep you spellbound for a long time. Sure, graphically it might not be the best game or from an overall technical standpoint but in exchange you get a very special game that is unlike others. I could say a lot more about Nier. But truth be told, the more I would say about the story, the more I would have to hold back to not spoil too much. It flat-out is a really good Action-RPG and you should at least give it a chance. And yes, it totally works fine even if you do not know Drakengard. There are only very minor details that you can look up but the main parts of the story are in the game - with very, very few exceptions, such as stuff that for example points that are explained in the book "Grimoire Nier" but overall the important stuff is still told.

    If you like Nier 2 Automata, get Nier 1. I would recommend it way more actually and Nier 2 is already a masterpiece.
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Metascore
68

Mixed or average reviews - based on 58 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 20 out of 58
  2. Negative: 3 out of 58
  1. Feb 9, 2011
    80
    Nier won't wow players with its basic mechanics, but in the story it tells, the characters it develops, and the themes present throughout play, it will easily win over anyone seeking something emotionally exploratory and well off the beaten path.
  2. A bizarre mix of influences and a great script still can't save this inventive but flawed role-player.
  3. Nier comes with a bizarre mix of influences and its own accomplishments. Not all of it works, but it's a commendable effort, and a great experience.