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NieR: Automata allows players extensive freedom to explore the world and tackle numerous side quests between main story missions. Many seemingly missable elements become accessible only after completing the main game. Unlocking Chapter Select is key to revisiting earlier content.
Completing the game for the first time only reveals a portion of the story. Accessing all side quests and achieving the true endings requires multiple playthroughs. This guide explains how to unlock and utilize Chapter Select.
This section contains minor spoilers regarding the achievement of true endings.
How To Unlock Chapter Select In NieR: Automata
Unlocking Chapter Select requires completing one of the game's true endings. This necessitates three playthroughs, culminating in a specific ending choice during the final confrontation of the third playthrough. While often called "playthroughs," these are sometimes referred to as "chapters" due to their individual narrative focus.
After viewing the credits of a playthrough, save your game. Load this save to begin the next section, playing as a different character. The final playthrough involves multiple character switches. Completion unlocks Chapter Select for that save file.
How Chapter Select Functions In NieR: Automata
Access Chapter Select from two locations:
- The main menu of your save file.
- Any access point within the game world.
This menu allows selection of any chapter within the game's main storyline. Progress, including weapons, level, and items, carries over. Where applicable, you can also choose the character you wish to play as.
Note that completed side quests cannot be replayed. Utilize save points when transitioning between chapters to preserve progress. Failing to save will result in the loss of any experience or items gained during that chapter. Chapter Select is ideal for completing all content and exploring different choices to experience all endings.
