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Spoiler-light: NieR:Automata’s main story unfolds through connected routes, not a collection of unrelated endings. Finish Route A, continue the cleared save into Route B, then play the later route to reach either Ending C or Ending D. After seeing both, continue to Ending E.

What is the main route order?

The main progression is commonly summarized as A → B → C/D → E. The letters identify story endings, while the routes connect the story between them. Ending A is a milestone, not the end of the main story. A route guide describes the overall sequence.

  1. Route A → Ending A: Follow 2B’s story. After the ending, continue from the cleared save when prompted to open the next route.
  2. Route B → Ending B: The story revisits much of the earlier portion from 9S’s perspective.
  3. Later route → Ending C or D: The narrative continues beyond Route B into a later finale. Its alternate outcomes are Endings C and D.
  4. Ending E: The route guide places this after both C and D have been seen.

What should I do after Ending A?

Choose to continue from the cleared save when the game offers that option. Ending A closes Route A, but the main story continues with Route B. Starting over instead of continuing is not necessary to progress.

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Do Endings C and D require two full playthroughs?

No. C and D are alternate outcomes of the later finale, rather than separate full campaigns. After reaching one, use chapter select to return to the final stretch and make the alternate character choice described by the route guide. This lets you obtain the other outcome without replaying every earlier chapter.

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How does Ending E fit in?

Ending E follows seeing both Ending C and Ending D in the route guide’s stated progression. It is not simply another result of choosing between C and D on the same first run through the finale.

Are all endings part of the main story?

No. The main sequence is Endings A through E. The game also has other endings, but their exact trigger conditions are not established by the sources cited here, so this guide does not present a checklist for them.

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Where can I play?

Square Enix lists NieR:Automata The End of YoRHa Edition for Nintendo Switch on its official product page. That listing identifies the Switch edition; it does not establish current retailer stock or pricing.

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The route order above is supported by secondary route and ending guides rather than an official Square Enix walkthrough. The ending index places C and D in Chapter 17; exact triggers for the game’s other endings should be checked individually before relying on a complete optional-ending list.

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