NieR is a spin-off of the Drakengard series. Its narrative origin stems directly from one of Drakengard's many intricate and often tragic endings.
The Intertwined Histories: From Drakengard to NieR
The connection between NieR and Drakengard is deeply rooted in the lore, specifically emerging from the esoteric "Ending E" of the original 2003 Drakengard game. This particular ending depicts events that lead to a catastrophic magical phenomenon, often referred to as the "Branch of Depravity," where a magical blight and monstrous beings are brought into Tokyo, Japan. This cataclysmic event sets the stage for the post-apocalyptic world in which the NieR games are set, effectively making them a continuation of one potential future from the Drakengard universe.
While sharing a common lineage, NieR distinguishes itself with a more philosophical and existential tone, moving away from Drakengard's darker, high-fantasy grimness. However, both series are renowned for their dark narratives, multiple branching endings, and often melancholic soundtracks.
NieR's Genesis and Core Premise
The very first game in the NieR series, originally released as NieR Gestalt (for Xbox 360 in the West) and NieR Replicant (for PlayStation 3 in Japan, later globally rereleased as NieR Replicant ver.1.22474487139...), introduces a protagonist who is desperately searching for a way to cure his daughter, Yonah, of a debilitating illness known as the Black Scrawl. This heartfelt and personal quest forms the emotional core of the initial game, anchoring its philosophical musings on humanity, despair, and existence.
Understanding the Spin-Off Relationship
The relationship between Drakengard and NieR is unique in that the spin-off actively explores the consequences of a specific, non-canonical (within Drakengard's main timeline) ending. This allows NieR to build its own distinct universe while retaining thematic echoes and subtle connections to its predecessor.
Here's a breakdown of their relationship:
| Series | Relation to Other Series | Key Thematic Elements | Notable Games (Examples) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Drakengard | Parent Series (Original Universe) | Dark fantasy, moral ambiguity, tragic consequences, cycles of violence | Drakengard, Drakengard 2, Drakengard 3 |
| NieR | Spin-off (from Drakengard's Ending E) | Existentialism, humanity's fate, philosophical inquiries, post-apocalyptic settings | NieR Replicant, NieR: Automata |
Key characteristics that demonstrate their shared DNA while highlighting NieR's evolution include:
- Multiple Endings: Both series are famous for their numerous, often unconventional, endings that significantly alter the player's understanding of the narrative.
- Philosophical Narratives: They delve into deep, often disturbing, questions about humanity, morality, and the nature of existence.
- Genre-Bending Gameplay: While primarily action RPGs, both series often incorporate elements from other genres, breaking traditional gameplay molds.
Impact and Legacy
The spin-off relationship allowed NieR to cultivate its own identity, particularly with the critical and commercial success of NieR: Automata. This success not only brought the series into the mainstream but also shed a new light on its Drakengard origins, encouraging many to explore the complete, interconnected lore created by director Yoko Taro.
