Nier Automata offers a rich variety of outfits that transform how 2B, 9S, A2, and other characters appear and feel during combat and exploration. These costumes range from late-game challenge rewards to story-driven gear, giving players multiple visual identities while often tying into gameplay advantages.
Each downloadable and in-game outfit adjusts silhouettes, color palettes, and small narrative touches, making outfit selection a meaningful way to personalize playthroughs without breaking game balance. The following sections detail key mechanics, standout costumes, and how these looks integrate with progression.
| Character | Outfit Name | Acquisition Method | Combat Effect |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2B | Classic Officer Set | Starting equipment | Balanced stats, no modifiers |
| 2B | White Impressionist | Complete Episode 16 | Boosted healing support |
| 9S | YoRHa No.9 Type S | Starting equipment | Enhanced scanning and hacking |
| 9S | Sorcerer Robe | Side quest reward | Magic-focused damage increase |
| A2 | Rebel Frame | New Game Plus reward | Increased critical hit rate |
| Pod 042 | Emulator Pod | Purchased with in-game currency | Boosts pod support actions |
Key Outfits and Unlock Progression
Main Story Costumes
The main story rewards introduce iconic looks tied to pivotal plot moments, such as the Operator outfits worn by key NPCs and the stripped-down Resistance gear adopted during crucial rebellions. These costumes often appear at fixed points in the narrative, reinforcing character development through silhouette changes.
Challenge and Endgame Rewards
High-difficulty encounters and postgame hunts grant access to powerful outfits that emphasize combat effectiveness. Players who invest time in repeat battles unlock layered garments that visually signal mastery while preserving fluid movement animations and responsive controls.
Customization and Visual Identity
Personalizing Combat Style
Outfits in Nier Automata are not purely cosmetic; many provide subtle animations, weapon skins, and emblem details that communicate a build’s focus to other players during online interactions. Choosing a look that matches preferred strategies can streamline loadout decisions in fast-paced missions.
Layering and Color Variants
Alternate color schemes and modular components let characters shift between stealthy dark tones and bright tactical palettes without altering core stats. This flexibility supports themed runs, speedrun consistency, or simple preference for a distinct on-screen presence.
Integration With Gameplay Systems
Gear Effects and Passive Bonuses
Certain premium costumes embed passive skills like status resistance, stat scaling, or pod efficiency improvements that align with endgame builds. Equipping these outfits becomes part of optimizing damage output, survivability, and resource management across long campaigns.
Cross-Play and File Transfers
Progress-based outfits remain tied to player accounts and titles, allowing friends to recognize experienced collaborators at a glance during co-op missions. Consistent visual cues help teams coordinate in arena-style challenges where familiarity with enemy patterns speeds resolution.
Refining Your Approach to Outfits
- Check stats and passive effects before committing to a high-level costume.
- Plan themed runs by selecting color families that match your preferred playstyle.
- Reserve rare outfits for showcase playthroughs or streaming moments.
- Balance visual flair with practical resistance sets for tough endgame missions.
FAQ
Reader questions
Can I mix and match outfit pieces freely during gameplay?
No, outfits are applied as full sets in the Wardrobe menu, so equipping a new look replaces the entire costume rather than allowing individual parts to be combined during active play.
Do outfits affect weapon stats or pod performance directly?
Outfits mainly change visuals and animations, but select premium sets include passive modifiers that slightly adjust weapon efficiency or pod energy usage based on equipped gear traits.
Are there outfits that change how NPCs interact with my character?
While base story NPCs react consistently, certain signature costumes can alter dialogue snippets with key allies and merchants, adding flavor without rewriting core narrative beats.
Do outfit unlocks carry over when starting a new game plus?
Yes, purchased and earned costumes transfer into New Game Plus, letting players retain their preferred visual loadouts while tackling higher difficulty tiers with familiar aesthetics.