2020 marks the 10th anniversary of the Nier franchise, a spin-off series based on a "joke" ending from the original Drakengard. As developer Toylogic prepares to release the remaster of Nier: Replicant in 2021, publisher Square Enix isn't ending the celebration there.
Square Enix has unveiled a new and gorgeous statue for the most die-hard Nier fans. The company revealed a new Nier: Automata figurine with a two-minute teaser video as part of the Square Enix Masterline collection. The 1/4 scale polystone figurine comes from Prime 1 Studio, a well-respected figurine manufacturer known for its exquisite detail matched with high pricing.
It is not often that a figurine receives its own trailer, and even more rare for such a video to be two-and-a-half minutes in length. Yet, if there was ever a figurine to warrant it, Prime 1's upcoming Nier: Automata model fits the bill. The design of the statue features the three main characters of the game, YoRHa units 2B, 9S, and A2 as well as the robot companions of Pod 042 and Pod 153. It is an entirely original piece with the formation of the three characters striking similar poses to previous Nier: Automata artworks. The statue stands as a stunning piece of memorabilia to one of 2017's biggest successes due to Nier: Automata's high sales numbers.
What the trailer for the statue demonstrates is an incredible level of detail that justifies an expected high price tag. The trailer isn't just an extensive look at the statue itself, but a celebration of the game it's based on matched with a small glimpse of the manufacturing process. Buyers are not simply getting a mass-produced figurine, but a detailed statue that makes for a unique and worthwhile ornament.
While the trailer gives players an overview of the statue, there is little else in the way of information about its release. No price or release date were announced but the former has been a point of speculation by fans. Prime 1's figurines are often considered some of the best within the entire industry, and that praise is met with high prices. With some of the company's previous figurines being over $1000, there is a good chance this upcoming Nier: Automata one follows suit. For those looking for a cheaper and cuter alternative, GoodSmile recently released the Nier: Automata 2B Nendroid.
Between the upcoming Nier Replicant Remaster and the two figurines, Square Enix is fully celebrating the franchise. The publisher even announced at Tokyo Game Show that the mobile title Nier: Reincarnation is coming to the West. 2021 will definitely be a year where long-time Nier fans will be rewarded for their dedication to the series.
Nier: Automata is available now on PC, PS4, and Xbox One.