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NieR: Automata allows extensive free-roaming and side-quest completion between main story missions. Much content might seem missable on a first playthrough. Completing the main game is only the beginning; accessing and completing earlier side quests requires utilizing the Chapter Select feature. This guide explains how.
This section contains minor spoilers related to achieving the true ending.
How To Unlock Chapter Select In NieR: Automata
Unlocking Chapter Select requires completing one of the game's true endings. This involves three playthroughs, culminating in a final choice during the third playthrough's ending sequence. While referred to as playthroughs, many consider them chapters due to their individual narrative focus.
After viewing the credits of a playthrough, save the game. Reload that save to begin the next section, playing as a different character. The final playthrough involves multiple character switches; its 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 the save file upon loading.
- Any access point within the game world.
This menu allows selection of any game chapter to resume the main story from that point. All progress (weapons, level, items) carries over. When loading a chapter with multiple playable characters, you can choose your character.
Note: Completed side quests cannot be replayed regardless of chapter selection. Utilize save points when transitioning between chapters; unsaved progress is lost, including levels and items. Chapter Select facilitates complete content acquisition and exploration of different choices to obtain all endings.
