Machine Network

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Lore & Background

The Machine Network is the collective intelligence governing the alien-created Machines that invaded Earth. The Network is controlled by Adam and Eve, twin physical manifestations of the Machine Network who reveal that their creators — the aliens — were destroyed centuries ago. After Adam is killed by 2B, Eve goes mad with grief and drives all connected Machines into a frenzy. Later, the Red Girls, a construct within the Machine Network, emerge as primary antagonists. The Network is revealed to be using the war with YoRHa to further its own evolution, having trapped both sides in an eternal cycle of war. A tower created by the Machines rises from the land, designed to launch a missile at the Moon server containing humanity's genetic remains. The Network's ultimate goal appears to be survival and understanding existence, even mimicking human behavior and emotions.

In Their Own Story

After 2B kills Adam, Eve goes mad with grief and drives the connected Machines into a frenzy. 2B and 9S kill Eve, but 9S becomes infected with Eve's logic virus, forcing 2B to kill him. 9S's consciousness survives within the local Machine Network. Later, a logic virus attack, enabled by a glitch 9S previously discovered, corrupts every YoRHa unit except 2B and the restored 9S. Simultaneously, a tower created by the Machines rises from the land. A2 witnesses the destruction of Pascal's village, then the village's 'children' taking their own lives out of fear. Pascal begs A2 to either wipe his memory or kill him. Devola and Popola sacrifice themselves to open the tower, with 9S and A2 both entering. During their final confrontation, they learn that the Machine Network is using the war to further their evolution, and that each side has trapped the other in an eternal cycle of war.

Reader's Guide

The Machine Network serves as the primary opposing force throughout the conflict on Earth. The Network is controlled by Adam and Eve, twin physical manifestations, and later by the Red Girls, a construct within the Machine Network. Members range from simple combat units to complex thinkers capable of building societies, such as the village led by Pascal, a machine who dislikes conflict and wishes for peace. While many remain hostile, some develop curiosity about humanity and seek peace. The Network's ultimate goal is revealed to be using the war to further their own evolution. A tower created by the Machines rises from the land, designed to launch a missile at the Moon server. The Network represents a constant threat that forces YoRHa units into endless cycles of battle, but their role transforms from mindless enemies into tragic figures seeking meaning in a dead world.

Did You Know?

• The Machine Network is controlled by twin physical manifestations named Adam and Eve, who reveal their alien creators were destroyed centuries ago.
• After Adam is killed by 2B, Eve goes mad with grief and drives all connected Machines into a frenzy.
• The Red Girls are a construct within the Machine Network that emerge as primary antagonists.
• The Machine Network is using the war with YoRHa to further their own evolution, trapping both sides in an eternal cycle of war.
• A tower created by the Machines rises from the land, designed to launch a missile at the Moon server containing humanity's genetic remains.

Gameplay Mechanics and Genre-Bending Design

Nier: Automata distinguishes itself through a dynamic combat system that merges traditional hack-and-slash action with role-playing progression. Players engage in real-time battles utilizing light and heavy attacks, evasive maneuvers, and the strategic support of a customizable flying Pod robot. The experience deepens as players switch between three distinct protagonists, each offering unique capabilities: 2B focuses on dual-weapon versatility, 9S combines melee strikes with enemy hacking, and A2 sacrifices health for temporary power surges. Beyond standard combat, the game incorporates diverse genres, shifting perspectives to include shoot 'em up sequences and text adventure segments that challenge conventional gameplay norms. Progression is managed through an experience point system that enhances stats, alongside a chip-based customization feature allowing players to alter abilities or HUD elements within limited slots. A unique death mechanic forces players to retrieve their fallen bodies for item recovery or resurrection, with online features enabling interactions with other players' remains.

Narrative Structure and Thematic Depth

The story unfolds in the year 11945 AD within a post-apocalyptic world defined by a proxy war between human-crafted androids and an invading force of alien-created Machines. Set thousands of years after the original Nier, this narrative exists in an alternative timeline connected to the Drakengard series but operates as a standalone tale exploring profound philosophical questions about the value of life and the motivations behind violence. The plot is intricately designed to require multiple playthroughs, with each cycle revealing new layers of truth and context that reshape the player's understanding of the conflict. Central characters include 2B, a stoic combat unit; 9S, an emotional scanner android; and A2, a rogue prototype who operates independently. These figures are supported by floating Pod robots and commanded from the orbital Bunker base. The narrative is further enriched by twenty-six different endings, ranging from five primary conclusions to numerous game-over scenarios triggered by specific failures or actions.

Development History and Creative Vision

Production on this sequel commenced in 2014 with a core team dedicated to honoring the legacy of the original Nier while significantly refining its combat mechanics. Series creator Yoko Taro returned to write a story exploring existential themes, joined by producer Yosuke Saito and lead composer Keiichi Okabe. Character design was entrusted to Akihiko Yoshida, bringing his renowned Final Fantasy aesthetic to the project. The development process presented unique challenges for PlatinumGames, who were tasked with creating an open-world environment alongside their signature action gameplay. Localization efforts were handled by 8-4, the same team responsible for the previous title, ensuring narrative consistency. Announced at E3 in 2015, the game was initially released on PlayStation 4 and Windows before expanding to Xbox One and Nintendo Switch, with the latter port arriving in late 2022.

Critical Reception and Commercial Legacy

Upon release, Nier: Automata garnered widespread acclaim for its compelling narrative, innovative gameplay mechanics, evocative music, and memorable characters. While critics noted some visual and technical shortcomings, particularly regarding the initial PC launch which faced unresolved issues until 2021, the game's overall quality resonated deeply with audiences. Its commercial performance exceeded expectations significantly, selling over ten million copies worldwide by February 2026. The franchise expanded beyond the video game medium to include stage plays and novels that further explored its universe. Additionally, the title received downloadable content updates and participated in crossover events with other games, cementing its status as a cultural phenomenon. Despite mixed reactions to early technical performance on certain platforms, the enduring popularity of the game highlights its successful execution of complex storytelling and engaging action.