NieR: Automata - The End of YoRHa Edition

 Switch
User Score
7.0

Mixed or average reviews- based on 251 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 174 out of 251
  2. Mixed: 8 out of 251
  3. Negative: 69 out of 251
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  1. bitterologist
    Nov 1, 2022
    6
    I don't get this game at all. Maybe I'm missing something. The story has some interesting things going for it and the machines are an interesting enemy. But other than that the whole thing feels decidedly meh. The combat plays like an ersatz version of Devil May Cry, with far less aerial combat and enemy juggling and worse player and camera controls. Enemy encounters often turn into aI don't get this game at all. Maybe I'm missing something. The story has some interesting things going for it and the machines are an interesting enemy. But other than that the whole thing feels decidedly meh. The combat plays like an ersatz version of Devil May Cry, with far less aerial combat and enemy juggling and worse player and camera controls. Enemy encounters often turn into a frustrating bullet hell, with a wonky camera that at times feels like an extra opponent. Combat also suffers from a lack of verticality and options for fast traversal, and enemies feel kind of same-y. I died quite often, I'd say more or less as frequently as when I play dark souls. The difference is that the deaths in Nier: Automata never once felt fair, and beating the harder enemies never once felt satisfying.

    Maybe there's depth to be found here, but I sure haven't been able to find any. This is not helped by the fact that the game's plethora of systems are hardly explained. How do you play the fishing mini game, and what's the point of it? Who knows! How does one use the various installable module thingies? No idea, the game never tells me. What are the various resources and random things I collect? Can I use them for something? Is there crafting? Beats me. Heck, I didn't even know there were healing potions for a good several hours because the game never explained that this was a thing.

    Lastly, the aethethics are a mixed bag. Graphics are okay for it being a switch game, and the enemies are generally well designed. The world is also generally beautiful, albeit not that exciting. Our heroine, however… I get that it's a thing they're going for, but the bleak and sombre tone of the story is rather at odds with the fact that the protagonist – supposedly a rugged soldier – runs around in some kind of maid outfit that gratuitously displays her naked butt whenever the camera is at a low angle. Had they gone for a comedic ecchi vibe, or a tone similar to e.g. Bayonetta, it would have been at least consistent. But in this game it just makes for a weird cognitive dissonance.    … Expand
  2. Tortimla
    Oct 27, 2022
    5
    Very nice Game a purchase recommendation who has no PS4 only a Nintendo switch then is a must
  3. Mitchanoru
    Apr 17, 2023
    10
    Trilha musical, jogabilidade e história incríveis. Foi um dinheiro bem gasto.
  4. Elias373
    Oct 8, 2022
    10
    The best port ever!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
  5. Dany8
    Oct 7, 2022
    10
    Un hermoso juego de los mejores de 2017 que hacía falta en la consola híbrida, tiene una etapa estable de 30 fps a 1080p en tv y 720p en dock. De los mejores ports que hay en Nintendo Switch, esta ahí para disfrutarlo.
    La gente va a criticarlo pero los que hablan en mal son los que no disfrutan
  6. CB186
    Oct 8, 2022
    10
    Amazing port of an amazing game! Runs excellently. Amazing Soundtrack and Gameplay, Fantastic Story amazing characters and boss fights!
    Platinum Games, Square Enix and Virtuos have done an excellent job porting this amazing game to switch
  7. Parissking
    Oct 7, 2022
    10
    MANNNNN... stop listening to these lames. Best game on the switch since Zelda hands down. 10/10
  8. k-on
    Oct 8, 2022
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Unforgettable feelings that made me reconsider my life structure (i got myself more time sitting home)… Expand
  9. GameforGamers
    Oct 8, 2022
    10
    i played this masterpiece on the PS4 before, but when i played this switch port i enjoyed the game even more, they really managed to create the impossible port and they managed to make it a perfect one, so it's a 10 out of 10 for me.
  10. Babushka_Zhu
    Oct 9, 2022
    10
    Прекрасный порт великой игры, который казался чем-то невозможным. Проделана невероятная работа, в портативном режиме игра выглядит великолепно и мыльных текстур практически незаметно. Игра работает ровно, без заметных просадок. Играйте и наслаждайтесь прекрасной историей!Прекрасный порт великой игры, который казался чем-то невозможным. Проделана невероятная работа, в портативном режиме игра выглядит великолепно и мыльных текстур практически незаметно. Игра работает ровно, без заметных просадок. Играйте и наслаждайтесь прекрасной историей!
  11. PabloM12
    Oct 8, 2022
    10
    El mejor port a nintendo switch!!
    Platinum games lo ha vuelto a hacer al nível de lo que hizo con astral chain!!
    Super recomendado si nunca lo has jugado anteriormente como fue en mi ocasión!
  12. Kramirez0113
    Oct 7, 2022
    9
    I just started this version. Haven’t gotten too far into it. But it seems good. The user response is probably review bombing, but for good measures, I’m writing this.
  13. VergilPOWER
    Oct 8, 2022
    10
    Vary Good Port ! Good Graphics ! So Cool gameplay with This Controllers I Love It !
  14. dharma
    Oct 7, 2022
    9
    A surprisingly great port, courtesy of Virtuous yet again. What they did here is mind boggling, reducing a 50Gb game into 10.5Gb and creating a seamless experience in comparison to its bigger cousins. Nier: Automata is always been a classic and one of the best console game of the last generation, but alas, I have never really completed through all of its endings. By going portable, IA surprisingly great port, courtesy of Virtuous yet again. What they did here is mind boggling, reducing a 50Gb game into 10.5Gb and creating a seamless experience in comparison to its bigger cousins. Nier: Automata is always been a classic and one of the best console game of the last generation, but alas, I have never really completed through all of its endings. By going portable, I can simply go through it at my own pace, and it is a brilliant game that should be played by Switch owners everywhere.… Expand
  15. stephanrewind
    Oct 8, 2022
    8
    Nier Automata is one among the handful of titles that I cite in example to describe what the medium can achieve when all the components of a game gel into a cohesive experience. Story focused games sometimes forget their first mandate, the gameplay. Other times it’s masterful mechanics wasted on a game that struggles to give a proper motivation and context to the player. Sometimes it’s aNier Automata is one among the handful of titles that I cite in example to describe what the medium can achieve when all the components of a game gel into a cohesive experience. Story focused games sometimes forget their first mandate, the gameplay. Other times it’s masterful mechanics wasted on a game that struggles to give a proper motivation and context to the player. Sometimes it’s a lackluster art direction that robs the game of its full potential.

    Nier Automata doesn’t have any of these problems. It’s an unforgettable experience told in a very clever and unique way, supported by satisfying action, meaningful progression, and superb production values. Usually I’m not one for praising the story in a game, but in this case I must mention the compelling, sometimes downright touching characters (in particular among the machines), and the emotional impact of their story, which is told with economy, suggested at times, and certainly never hamfisted. The game isn’t burried under useless dialogue. Every character interaction is meaningful and concise, a fact quite rare among JRPGs. I also want to salute the unusual structure of the game, where the full experience is distilled though several play throughs. This ensures enjoyable replay value, devoid of grind, and a system that keeps peeling new layers, and rewards the most dedicated player.

    I could go on for a long time, telling you about the impeccable mechanics, the atmospheric art direction, the powerful music. But I want to adress the port. In fact, it’s the quality of the Switch port that compelled me to write a review. I’ve played the game on PS4, and of course if you own one, it’s a better way to experience the game. But with a solid 30 fps most of the time and clever graphical compromises, this port is as good as they get. I think we need to encourage developers to treat the Switch with respect, and boycott shameless cash grab half baked ports. They’re an insult both to the platform and the game. But rest assured that if you can only play Nier Automata on the Switch, the core of the experience remains intact, and the few concessions the developer made are quite reasonable. The only questionable choice for me is how much more saturated the game is on Switch. I have nothing against colorful games, but I think that the somewhat subdued palette on PS4 felt more appropriate. I’m not sure if this was a conscious choice, but to me it cheapens the art, and gives the game an unwanted peppy look. However this is a minor concern, especially if you’ve never played the game on any other platform. But if like me you’re sensitive to this kind of thing, it’s a bit of an issue.

    For my part, I’ll play Nier Automata again, because it’s a true testament to how wonderful videogames can be, both for their entertainment and artistic value. And I suggest that you do the same.    … Expand
  16. ClassicGamer504
    Oct 8, 2022
    10
    A very great port of a very amazing game! Nier Automata is one of the best games to release from last gen. Amazing music, great gameplay, superb characters and story! It's one of the better 3rd party switch ports and titles in general. A must buy for people who never experienced the game before!
  17. OMIbiswas
    Oct 9, 2022
    10
    This is an art. Story-soundtrack-art style-game play-game menu-dialogue choice, everything is connected with each other. This game's story can't be easily adapted or as-is copied by movie or show. Just like people can't copy masterpiece arts.
  18. HappyDonnie
    Oct 8, 2022
    10
    Great port, i dont see a reason not to vote 10. One if the greatest games of all time. Something new is always happening, it never gets boring.
  19. Retroplayer1987
    Oct 7, 2022
    10
    Excelente port a 30 fps super estables, se ve increiblemente bien , tiene todo el contenido de las versiones anteriores y unos pocos añadidos.. Debes pensar que esto es una switch y es una tabletita, muy alejada de lo enorme y pobremente diseñada que puede ser una Play. No hagas caso a los comentarios negativos en rojo son solo piperos que no tienen a nada que jugar. En fin, a disfrutar!
  20. Luzbel_Yokai
    Oct 7, 2022
    10
    Masterpiece.
    De los mejores juegos que existen.
    Platinum Games son dioses.
    Los que haceis review bombing me podeis comer la po***
  21. sonicpulsar
    Oct 11, 2022
    10
    Best version of this masterpiece. Playable both docked (at 1080p which is higher than its PS4 counterpart) and in Portable mode, features HD Rumble, Motion controls and exclusive DLC items. Highly recommended!
  22. Ripper36
    Oct 7, 2022
    10
    Wonderful game, and a wonderful Port. They really did it again with Nier on the Switch. Played the PS4 a couple years back and loved what i played but i am loving this more. Great story, great graphics and great gameplay. If you love action/RPG's or love Pantinum Games.....you will love Nier Automata on the Switch.
  23. Crown02
    Oct 11, 2022
    10
    Loved the game and especially the music. Probably the best nintendo switch game 2022 so far, waiting for bayonetta 3!
  24. Adalwulf
    Oct 12, 2022
    10
    One of my all-time favorites. First played it on a PS 4 Pro back in the day, but the switch port seems extremely competent. If you haven't played it, but you're searching for an intelligent and deep story-game, with versatile, action-packed game-play, you shouldn't miss on this modern classic.
  25. onebigbillybob
    Oct 21, 2022
    10
    Never got around to playing this one when it originally came out. Boy, what a mistake! This is BOTW, Mario Odyssey, MGS5 level great! I've played a few Platinum games, Wonderful 101 and Astral Chain, both which I really loved. Digging Nier so so much. It has everything you want in a game. I can't compare this port to the original but it runs pretty damn good to me, big props to Virtuos forNever got around to playing this one when it originally came out. Boy, what a mistake! This is BOTW, Mario Odyssey, MGS5 level great! I've played a few Platinum games, Wonderful 101 and Astral Chain, both which I really loved. Digging Nier so so much. It has everything you want in a game. I can't compare this port to the original but it runs pretty damn good to me, big props to Virtuos for a fantastic job, from what I understand, it was a Herculean task and I'm glad I now have the opportunity to experience this Masterpiece. I've loved the Switch since the minute I bought it 5+ years ago, it is by far my favorite console of all time. Getting some of these older games ported over that I never had a chance to play is just icing on the cake of probably the greatest all-around console of all time. Looking forward to the future of Nintendo, although the present pretty awesome! Game on, gamers.… Expand
  26. Tailed-Raven
    Nov 27, 2022
    10
    One of the BEST JRPG TO EXIST FINALLY ON THE SWITCH AND THE PORT IS GOOD AT THAT
  27. renanfischer
    Dec 30, 2022
    0
    Don't waste yours hours with this trash. I am stuck in the B route because of a bug that does not allow me to progress, and I have spent already 20+ hours.
  28. laughingal
    Oct 7, 2022
    4
    I see a lot of people love the Nier games, but they're just not my jam, too much nihilism and mindless button mashing
  29. William8
    Oct 8, 2022
    10
    Almost exactly how it is on every other console...which is pretty insane for a handheld console.
  30. ShadoWraith
    Oct 15, 2022
    10
    Despite the system limitations of the Switch, it doesn't have the graphical and performance issues that I was so concerned that it might have. I already had this for the PC and the PS4 but, I wanted one I could just play in bed or travel with. I would highly recommend this as it by far one of the best games ever. It's not an overstatement to say it's a masterpiece with the music (awesome)Despite the system limitations of the Switch, it doesn't have the graphical and performance issues that I was so concerned that it might have. I already had this for the PC and the PS4 but, I wanted one I could just play in bed or travel with. I would highly recommend this as it by far one of the best games ever. It's not an overstatement to say it's a masterpiece with the music (awesome) to the story, it's definitely worth it.… Expand
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Awards & Rankings

5
#5 Best Switch Game of 2022
18
#18 Most Discussed Switch Game of 2022

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
89

Generally favorable reviews - based on 34 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 33 out of 34
  2. Mixed: 1 out of 34
  3. Negative: 0 out of 34
  1. PC Games
    Nov 6, 2022
    90
    Even the weakest version of Nier: Automata is an unforgettable, mindblowing experience you absolutely shouldn’t miss. Play it on one of the other platforms, if you can, as the 30 FPS lock makes the extremely dynamic action feel a bit sluggish, but if you play exclusively on Switch, you’re getting a well-made port of one of the best and unique games the last console generation had to offer.
    Read full review
  2. RPG Fan
    Nov 4, 2022
    90
    NieR: Automata holds a special place in my heart. It introduced me to so many new experiences while simultaneously tapping into my nostalgia for how games made me feel. It’s one of the few games where I sat on the floor, controller in hand, staring up at the TV as if I were playing Final Fantasy VII for the first time again. NieR: Automata is the kind of game with a strange magical power that’ll warp you back to your favorite childhood game, then imprint itself upon your memory so that whenever you see a metal trash can, you’ll swear you heard it say, “this cannot continue.”
    Read full review
  3. Vgames
    Oct 23, 2022
    80
    It's a good port for a fantastic game - people who have played it might not be tempted to double dip in the Switch version, but first-timers with only the Nintendo Switch at their disposal will find this port highly enjoyable.
    Read full review
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