NieR Replicant

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a game by Square Enix
Platform: PC (2021)
Editor Rating: 8/10, based on 2 reviews
User Rating: 9.5/10 - 4 votes
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See also: Action Adventure Games, Action Games, RPGs, Games Like Undertale, Games Like Recettear, Games Like Nier Automata, Games Like Bloodborne, Games Like Baldur's Gate, Games Like Kingdom Hearts, Games Like Yakuza, Games Like Final Fantasy XIV, Games Like Grim Dawn
NieR Replicant
NieR Replicant
NieR Replicant
NieR Replicant

If you are looking for a dystopian story where robots are running the world, there are plenty to choose from. You have I-Robot or The Matrix to name a few. However, within a gaming context, there is only one franchise that has mastered this niche area of storytelling and that is the Nier series. This is our preview of Nier: Replicant.

While the series may not have been a household name for many years, it’s always been around and NieR: Automata allowed the Series to get the attention and praise it has always deserved on a global scale. Now almost four years on, Nier is back and offering a prequel that will help fill in the blanks for the newer fans to the series.

We are of course referring to Nier: Replicant.

This game is a hack and slash title that will play like many of the Nier titles that have come before. However, looking outside this franchise. It will also play like games such as Bayonetta, Devil May Cry, Onimusha and Ninja Gaiden. This is a high octane title which will help invite new fans into the world of Nier and give them clarity on the stories that have come before.

Hope you are Taking Notes

Let’s deal with the elephant in the room, the story. So much like Metal Gear Solid or Kingdom Hearts], Nier as a series has developed a reputation as a near impenetrable narrative for players to jump into. So with the arrival of Nier: Replicant, Square Enix want to make things a lot easier. However, this is easier said than done. So this game is a prequel to Automata, it can also be considered a standalone story. Plus the game has two versions where the protagonist is either a boy or an older man. The latter is the western version and the former is the Japanese version which will be called Gestalt. If you haven’t been able to follow that, well, that makes perfect sense. The game is likely going to be just as convoluted and hard to follow as ever. So players who were expecting this game to hold their hand and guide them through the narrative. We are afraid that it’s very unlikely to be the case.

Some Familiarity For Automata Fans

While Square Enix have stated that this game was not made with Automata fans in mind. We are happy to report that the core gameplay is still very much recognisable. You’ll still be hacking and slashing your way through hordes of enemies, the boss battles are still against hulking behemoths. The animations, skills and combat is still incredibly fun and fast paced. Plus, in terms of visuals, they may not be what you call next gen ready but they are at least on par with Automata and the scenes are still spectacular to witness.

The Verdict

We reckon that Nier: Replicant will be a very strong title, just not for the casual player. We feel that this game was made for a particular group of players in mind and for that reason, it may be difficult for new players to invest fully in this adventure.

8

That being said, this game will still have brilliant combat, a compelling story for those that can follow it, set pieces that will blow the player away and a visual offering that is at least on par with its predecessor. In short, this game is fan service at its finest, it just might not appeal to the masses quite like Automata managed to do.

Pros:

  • Plenty of fan service for devoted Nier players
  • Familiar combat and gameplay mechanics

Cons:

  • Won’t appeal to the casual player
  • Not made with Automata players in mind
  • Won’t improve on visuals too much

Download NieR Replicant

PC

System requirements:

  • PC compatible
  • Operating systems: Windows 10/Windows 8/Windows 7/2000/Vista/WinXP

Game Reviews

Back in 2010, Cavia brought to us another new and exciting gaming world. A game that offered one of the most unique and stylish hacks and slash adventures that the genre had ever seen. A feat that undoubtedly deserves acclaim. However, as the years have progressed, the power of hindsight has allowed us to see the kinks in the original game's armour, showing its flaws. So with that in mind, Cavia have decided to remaster this iconic title, bringing the visuals and gameplay up to the standard of modern gaming in a hope of rekindling the fanbases love for this title. They aimed to do this through a remaster titled, Nier: Replicant

This game plays much like the aforementioned title Nier: Automata and the original NIER. However, looking outside this series, the game plays much like other hack and slash games such as Bayonetta, Devil May Cry, Drakengard 3, Code Vein and Final Fantasy XV. This title aims to offer fanfare in abundance and drag the original NIER into the modern age of gaming. However, is this a good decision, or should this relic have been left in the past? We find out in our review of NIER: Replicant.

An Endearing Replica

First of all, let us clear one thing up. The problems that persisted in the original NIER are still present here. We can only assume that taking the original and tweaking it beyond recognition wasn’t something the developer was willing to do. However, these small flaws are forgivable thanks to the cheer abundance of quality that is on offer here. First, let’s address the visuals which are absolutely stunning. It’s still clear that this is a PS3 era title but the 60FPS, refined textures, smoother animations and larger draw distances make the experience much more immersive.

Then moving on to the core gameplay, the combat hasn’t be overhauled but instead refined to feel more like the very successful NieR: Automata. You can do more things on the fly, you aren’t locked into actions and you can mix up your attacks with much more fluidity, making this a much more enjoyable experience. However, it does have to be said, much like in the original Nier, the combat is rather one note, which will be a deterrent for some.

However, the most impressive asset of Nier Replicant is the story and it’s presentation. Not only is the soundtrack remastered expertly and the story told in the same remarkable way. The main character is now fully voiced, offering a much more personal and immersive experience. Plus, the camera angles have been tweaked to provide a masterful visual experience that is no longer marred by the primitive graphics of the PS3 era.

The Verdict

Overall, Nier Replicant is a remaster that sticks to the source material, mending what was there rather than reinventing. Something that long-time fans will ultimately appreciate. However, casual players who enjoyed Automata may find this game a step backwards. The graphics, camera angles, soundtrack and combat are all better than they were back in 2010. However, thanks to this simply being a remaster, the game rather predictable pales in comparison to Automata.

8

If you love NIER and simply want to see the original get a facelift. This is the game for you. However, if you want the best NIER experience to date, you might want to stick with Automata.

Pros:

  • Outstanding improvements to camera angles, soundtrack, visuals and combat
  • Voice acting added for protagonist
  • Sticks to the original story to the letter

Cons:

  • The tedious problems of the original remain
  • Still looks like a PS3 era game
  • Isn’t as refined as Automata

Snapshots and Media

PC Screenshots

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