Of the many successful JRPGs released within the last 10 years, Nier Automata is one that has left a strong impact on many of its players. Featuring experimental user interactivity, an emotionally complex storyline, and well-executed combat mechanics, Nier Automata has a lot to offer that sets itself apart from other JRPGs. Now, it seems the game might be getting its own anime adaptation.
One of the core foundations of both installments of the Nier series is narrative. Both Nier Automata and Nier Replicant feature extremely tragic and depressing narratives, which grapple with loss, conflict, revenge, and hope. Given the multifaceted nature of Nier's storytelling and presentation, the story of either game could easily receive some sort of standalone adaptation that focuses entirely on narrative. Though, apparently something to that effect may already in the works.
Over on Twitter, a user named Spanku_u, who has provided credible leaks on anime projects in the past, said that Nier Automata will be receiving an anime adaptation. Obviously, nothing is confirmed, but the leaker accurately predicted similar adaptations. It's not uncommon for video games, especially JRPGs, to receive anime adaptations that cover the plot of the game. For instance, Persona 4, Persona 5, and the Ace Attorney series all received anime adaptations that covered key story moments featured in each respective game.
Though, unlike the previous examples of anime adaptations of video games, Nier Automata may prove difficult to adapt. The reason being that so much of Nier Automata's narrative lends itself to the idea of user interactivity. While Nier Automata is home to a number of well written and memorable characters, such as 2B, 9S, A2, and Emil, who was previously featured in Nier Replicant, the lack of interactivity may lose a lot of the impact Nier Automata had on a number of its players.
Not to mention the fact that Nier Automata has a lot of endings and by extension, a lot of story content for players to explore. These endings are only presented to the player once certain in-game decisions are made. It's actually pretty easy for players to make a lot of bad decisions within Nier Automata that could cost them the best ending. The point being that trying to adapt every facet of Nier Automata's story could prove to be a difficult undertaking.
Regardless, the story of Nier Automata is an incredibly powerful and emotional experience that could potentially benefit from having an anime adaptation. Not only would it bring more attention to the game, but it could also provide non-video game players a chance to experience the story of 2B, 9S, and A2 without the pressure of having to play through the game.
Nier: Automata is available on PC, PlayStation 4, and Xbox One.