Square Enix and Platinum Games’ action role-playing game, Nier Automata, has nearly reached sales of 10 million units worldwide.
During an interview with Famitsu on the occasion of the 15th anniversary of Nier, members of its development team looked back at the series, sharing insight, illustrations, and more. Yoko Taro talked about his initial lack of confidence in the project’s commercial viability. Keiichi Okabe reflected upon the music being one of the series’ key emotional elements. Takahisa Taura mentioned how Nier Automata’s combat evolved from feedback and experimentation. Yosuke Saito discussed Square Enix’s initial skepticism and how the company was surprised by the global response. During the discussion, it was also revealed that the total worldwide shipments and digital sales for Nier Automata are approaching 10 million units.
The development team was asked to share their thoughts on Nier Automata nearly reaching the 10 million units sales milestone. In response, Yoko Taro said that he had thought the game would flop. During development, he had asked the team to do their best and see what happens. He hadn’t expected this level of global reception. Meanwhile, Yosuke Saito mentioned that there was a lot of hesitation from within the company at first. He recalled having to explain repeatedly why he believed in the project. However, things changed the moment the playable demo was released and people began praising the game.
Takahisa Taura agreed that the turning point for Nier Automata was the playable demo. According to him, it communicated the feel of the combat and world better than any trailer or press release could. Keiichi Okabe added that the music also helped establish the identity of the game. He point out that a lot of fans mentioned how the soundtrack moved them.
As for what’s next for the series, Yoko Taro said that he always believes the current entry is the last, and then somehow a new project turns up. He said that there may or may not be more to come, and that he tries not to think too far ahead. Yosuke Saito mentioned that the development team is always discussing possibilities. He added that NieR fans are special, and they don’t take their passion for granted.
