Nier Automata director Yoko Taro has shared the meaning behind each ending of the game. On the other hand, he would personally like to see a PS Vita successor following the Nintendo Switch hype.
Automata features many different endings, which all have their respective themes ranging from sad to outright strange. This is one of the charms the title has, as very few video games explore such depth and emotion in the narrative. Siliconera recently reported an interview with the game's director to learn more about the inspiration and choices he made to create such unique endings.
Nier Automata Director Shares Thoughts About The Various Endings
Firstly, he mentioned that the E ending was essentially the "happy ending" which was quite a challenge for him to create as he did not initially think of putting such an ending in the game. Taro stated that he focused on the other various aspects before coming to a solid conclusion that would be fitting for all of the characters. Because of this, he believes that the characters led him to write that certain ending and it is what they would have wanted and desired.
Meanwhile, he also noted that the ending of the game had some sort Asteroids-like sequence where players would shoot at the development team. The developer explained that he wanted to depict some kind of "breaking the system" fourth wall moment wherein players are trying to find the last hope. He compared the scene to how some humans look to God for answers and hopes that the same feeling was implemented into the game.
On the topic of NieR's save deletion feature, the producer expressed that he got the idea back when he was still a child. During those days, he was playing Dragon Quest when his save file corrupted. While he was in such great distress, his parents did not think of it as a big deal. In line with this, Taro claimed that some players merely watch others on YouTube to get the same value they would have if they were to actually play the game.
However, by putting in that save deletion feature, he noted that those who played the game have this special experience that only they understand. The process of losing save data after working so hard would have a much bigger impact on the players themselves rather than the audience. In turn, this would add more value to the actual player's experience that only they could understand which is what Taro aimed for.
Yoko Taro Wants A PS Vita Successor
That aside, another Siliconera report explains that the director recently shared a tweet about next-gen handheld consoles and that he would personally like to see a Vita successor. He wants something that can satisfy his "itch" which cannot be done with a smartphone that lacks physical buttons. With this in mind, the question stands if he would develop a title for a possible future Sony handheld.
Nier Automata contains an action-packed experience coupled with an emotional journey. To get the full experience, players must go through every ending to understand how deep the game actually is. Those who are interested can get the game for the PC and PS4.