A new NieR game should not be an elusive dream running in our minds, but a reality shaping in Square Enix’s vision that needs to be brought to fruition.
Speculation about a new game has been constant. Even now, NateTheHate said he had heard talk of a new NieR game last year, but currently has no new information to share. Therefore, we have no confirmation of a potential new release, nor a denial that the idea of a new entry is being considered. It only adds another small piece to a larger conversation around the future of the franchise.
NieR:Automata recently passed 10 million copies sold, a massive milestone for a series that was once considered niche. To celebrate that achievement, Square Enix released new material around the game, and the most interesting detail was the message that NieR:Automata is “to be continued.”
Now, that could point to a new game, sure. But it could also point to more anime content, collaborations, merchandise, a re-release, or some kind of smaller project connected to Automata. Square Enix has kept the world of NieR alive through crossovers and side content for years, so we should be careful before assuming that “to be continued” automatically means a full sequel is about to be revealed.
The last major console entry in the series was released in 2017, developed by PlatinumGames and published by Square Enix. It became far bigger than many expected, turning 2B, 9S, and A2 into some of the most recognizable characters in modern RPGs. Its mix of action combat, strange storytelling, philosophical themes, and unforgettable music helped push NieR from a cult series into the mainstream.
Image Source: PlatinumGames/Square Enix
Since then, fans have received NieR Replicant ver.1.22474487139..., which revisited the original game with improvements and new content, and NieR Reincarnation, the mobile entry that expanded the universe. But for many players, there still has not been a true major console follow-up to Automata. It will soon be 10 years since the game made its debut.
Square Enix is sitting on one of its most successful modern IPs. In a period where the company is leaning more heavily on recognizable franchises, a new NieR game should be one of the most obvious moves it can make.
So if the demand is there, then why is Square Enix not ready to show anything?
If a new NieR game is tied directly to Automata, expectations will be enormous. Fans would want something that respects the original while still finding a reason to exist. If it is a completely new entry with new characters and a new setting, the game would have more freedom, but it may not have the same immediate pull as another game connected to 2B and that world.
Image Source: PlatinumGames/Square Enix
That is probably why the company decided to move slowly. A full reveal too early could create the same problem Square Enix has had with other long-awaited projects, where excitement turns into frustration because we, the fans, are left waiting for years.
The franchise is clearly not dead. Automata is still selling, still appearing in collaborations, and still strong enough for Square Enix to celebrate it as one of its biggest modern successes. Until there is a proper announcement, the idea of a new NieR game is likely, but we can’t be sure if it’s coming in the near future or not.
When thinking about NieR, it’s hard to picture it as a niche game the way it started, but as one of Square Enix’s most important cards to play. We are still waiting for the showdown.