Developers are tapping into nostalgia for sure-fire hits with video game remakes. This doesn’t explain Nier Replicant ver.1.22474487139 remaster. It wasn’t exactly a big hit when it came out in 2011. It’s likely the remaster got greenlit because of its bestselling sequel, Nier: Automata. The new Nier Replicant is a chance for new fans of the series to play it for the first time with improved graphics and gameplay.
Based on screenshots, it looks like Toylogic has improved the character animations, cutscenes, and lighting effects. Nier’s post-apocalyptic world looks dated with low-resolution textures. The PS5 version had no enhancements except for faster load times. Combat looks and feels good – it’s more like Nier: Automata. Combat itself wasn’t much of a challenge, and there could have been more enemies. Fans of Nier: Automata will also recognize the camera perspective changes that transform this hack-and-slash RPG into a side-scrolling platformer. Even a visual novel-like segment.
But I don’t like the early game’s fetch quests. There are some sidequests that turn into interesting, even poignant short stories, but most are just boring. Likewise, the interface lacks the quality-of-life improvements modern RPGs offer, like quest markers. I was impressed with the voice acting. Even the smallest NPC had a voiceover. Thankfully, the rearranged and rerecorded soundtrack helps to alleviate the boredom of running from one location to another. Nier has some heartbreaking moments and some memorable characters. Five different endings. All of them add to the story, but you have to replay parts of the game several times and collect all 33 weapons. There’s even a new ending for this remaster.
