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NieR: Automata allows players extensive freedom to explore the world and tackle numerous side quests between main story missions. Many elements might seem missable on a first playthrough. Even after seeing the initial credits, the game is far from complete. Accessing all side quests within a single save file requires finishing the game's full narrative. This guide explains how to unlock and utilize Chapter Select.
This section contains minor spoilers related to achieving the true ending.
How To Unlock Chapter Select In NieR: Automata
Unlocking Chapter Select necessitates completing one of the game's true endings. This involves finishing all three playthroughs and selecting a specific ending during the final confrontation of the third playthrough. While referred to as playthroughs, many consider each a distinct chapter, as each unfolds a unique part of the overall story.
After viewing the credits at the end of a playthrough, save your game. Reload that save to begin the next section, playing as a different character. The final playthrough involves switching between characters. Completing this final playthrough unlocks Chapter Select for that save file.
How Chapter Select Functions In NieR: Automata
Chapter Select is accessible from two locations:
- The main menu of the save file upon loading the game.
- Any access point within the game world.
This menu allows selection of any chapter from the main story. All aspects of your profile, such as weapons, level, and items, are retained. When loading a chapter, you can choose the character, provided that chapter features multiple playable characters.
It's important to note that completed side quests cannot be replayed, regardless of the selected chapter. When transitioning between chapters, always save at an access point. Failing to do so will result in the loss of any progress, including levels and items acquired during that chapter. Chapter Select is invaluable for completing all content and exploring different choices to obtain all possible endings.
