While the first episode was almost a shot-for-shot remake of the game’s opening sequence, NieR: Automata Ver1.1a Episode 2 features numerous differences from the original game.
Even before the show premiered, Nier fans were already debating what type of adaptation this new anime is.
Based on the latest episode, it’s safe to say that it will not just be a straight-up remake of the original game.
Spoiler Warning: There are spoilers for NieR: Automata Ver1.1a Episode 2 in this article.
NieR: Automata Ver1.1a Story
Square Enix and A-1 Pictures announced during the game’s fifth-anniversary celebration that Nier Automata was getting an anime adaptation.
This was unexpected given how it’s been years since Automata was released as, typically, adaptations such as these are promotions for games and are released shortly after a game’s release.
Fans of the original were happy with the announcement though, especially as it features the return of the original Japanese voice cast, including Yui Ishikawa (Mikasa from Attack on Titan) as 2B and Natsuki Hanae (Tanjiro from Demon Slayer) as 9S.
Based on its initial trailers, it seemed at first that the anime will be a straightforward adaptation of the original game. Though some fans believed that it would expand or even remake parts of the game.
These theories are supported by the fact that the anime features brand-new characters, including Lily, a member of the Resistance.
Episode 1 didn’t inspire confidence in some fans as it did not deviate at all from the game’s opening sequence.
Some fans were also disappointed by the CGI at some points. Though Episode 2 was better received in terms of story and animation.
ALSO READ: How Many Episodes Will NieR: Automata Ver1.1a Have?
Nier Automata Anime vs. Game
Episode 2 broadly follows the events of the game as 2B and 9S are assigned to investigate YoRHa’s liaison with the Resistance who has gone silent.
But the story similarities end there as the anime rearranges the events of the game.
More importantly, it adds a new mini story involving the machine PLAO8 along with Lily and the Resistance.
Changes to the source material aren’t typically popular among fans. But based on the Episode 2 reactions, it seems that even fans of the original game are happy with the additional content.
Specifically, many praised how the added story of the Machine adds an extra layer of emotion.
Plus, the added scenes enhance the story and the world, making it fun to watch even for those who already know what will happen.
NieR: Automata Ver1.1a continues with Episode 3 which will be released on Crunchyroll this weekend.
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