NieR: Automata

A fascinating and unexpected genre blend of seven or eight different kinds of video game. There are few predictable moments throughout the game, and the ending—the true ending—is an all-timer.

An intriguing blend of action, story, and existential themes. The combat is fast and fluid, and the multiple story routes add depth to the experience. While I loved the overall story, some of the repetitiveness between playthroughs took away from the impact. Still, it's a game that sticks with you.

A brilliant game on so many levels with iconic characters and level designs. Hard to find much fault with this game if any.

NieR: Automata blends deep philosophical storytelling with stylish action gameplay. The multiple endings and emotional depth left a lasting impression. It’s a masterpiece of modern gaming.

As much as I loved the gameplay and the overall story in Nier-Automata, I hate the outdated save mechanic.

I mean, even in games like Elden Ring or Dark Souls players get to save right after beating a boss, but here not only do you need to survive bosses, but also a lot of fillery combat to finally save the game.

As another game I avoided for shallow reasons (I wasn't into the anime aesthetic), I realized how wrong I was to judge the game by its cover. This game is deeper than the oceans on our planet, and somehow hybridizes several forms of gameplay into one game. On top of an epic story and interesting evolutions of gameplay, the game needlessly explores philosophical concepts of existentialism.