TheNier: Automata franchise has left an indelible mark on the gaming community with its immersive storyline and unforgettable characters. It transports you to a futuristic world with androids versus dangerous machines. What’s not to like?
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Thanks to its devoted following, the Nier franchise even received its own anime adaptation bySquare Enix. If you find yourself yearning for more anime that captures the essence of the series, this list will take you to similar worlds brimming with action, philosophy, and awe-inspiring narratives.
86 offers a unique and compelling narrative set in a war-torn world, drawing parallels to the NieR universe. In the Republic of San Magnolia, a prolonged war with the Gildian Empire rages on, concealed by misinformation claiming zero casualties.
The Republic’s citizens have been segregated into two sectors, one turning a blind eye to the collateral damage and the other being used as cannon fodder against the enemy’s AI drones. The series follows the story of Lena, an officer of San Magnolia, commanding a squad of drones.
Blame! delivers a dystopian and enigmatic world that resonates with the essence of NieR. The anime is set in a distant future, where cities are being built automatically by AI systems.
After a malfunction, the city’s AI systems turn against humans, and an unfathomably vast city continues to expand endlessly, forming a maze of sorts. It is now up to a small group of survivors to save humanity from total extinction.
8Back Arrow
The anime Back Arrow brings a unique blend of adventure and mystery. The story is set in a world surrounded by a massive wall, and it has always been believed that no one or nothing has ever gone outside.
Until one day, a mysterious man appears from beyond the wall, devoid of memories. He possesses an unusual ability and embarks on a quest to uncover the truth behind his existence and the secrets hidden within the wall.
7Psycho-Pass
Psycho-Pass immediately captures your attention with its dystopian setting and exploration of the human psyche. In a future society governed by a system that quantifies individuals' mental states, Akane Tsunemori, a young detective, grapples with the moral implications of maintaining order and justice.
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With its dark atmosphere,strong female protagonist, and thought-provoking narrative, Psycho-Pass offers an immersive experience similar to that of Nier: Automata.
Bokurano shares thematic similarities with the NieR universe, presenting a dark and introspective storyline that challenges the notion of morality and the consequences of choices. A group of children is forced to pilot a giant robot in a deadly battle against otherworldly foes.
What makes Bokurano even greater is thehuge plot twist revealedat the end of the series, which will leave you reeling in shock.
5From The New World
From the New World throws you into a dystopian future where humans possess psychic abilities. The story starts when a group of friends sets off to unravel the mysteries surrounding their seemingly idyllic society.
The series explores themes of memory manipulation, the ethics of control, and the cyclical nature of human existence.
4Mobile Suit Gundam
One ofthe best mecha anime franchisesto ever come out of Japan,Mobile Suit Gundamis definitely worth starting. There are many different series to choose from, some darker than others.
The franchise has constantly delved into challenging themes and explored the moral complexities that exist in the gray areas between good and evil. Mobile Suit Zeta Gundam is one of the fan favorites, as it confronts the profound repercussions of a massive war.
3Neon Genesis Evangelion
Neon Genesis Evangelion is one of the greatest mecha anime to ever be released. While it’s greatly underrated, it handles many serious topics and themes, from depression to dealing with the loss of a loved one.
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The anime takes place in a post-apocalyptic world, where humanity is being under attack by giant otherworldly beings known as Angels. It is up to Shinji and other teenagers to fight against these creatures and save the world.
2Vivy: Fluorite Eye’s Song
Vivy: Fluorite Eye’s Song shares striking similarities with the NieR universe, offering a compelling blend of sci-fi, existentialism, and though-provoking storytelling.
The story takes place in a future where AI has become integral to society, and an AI songstress is tasked with preventing a catastrophic event that threatens humanity.
1Guilty Crown
Guilty Crown is yet another great post-apocalyptic story handling complex moral dilemmas. The world is devastated by a viral outbreak, and the protagonist, Shu, must choose who he’s fighting for.
With its intense action sequences, intricate plot twists, and thought-provoking themes, Guilty Crown offers an anime experience reminiscent of the morally gray world of NieR.
