The dark play of monstrosity in NieR: Automata

Abstract

This article explores elements of monstrosity in Yoko Taro’s NieR: Automata (Platinum Games 2017), arguing in specific that the main ‘monster’ is represented through an extreme distortion of humanity’s values and ideals. The analysis is supported by traditional literature regarding the monstrous and the monstrous-feminine, associated with the definition of dark play and its elements such as dehumanization, to conduct a close reading of NieR: Automata lore, visuals and mechanics. Through the analysis of Simone – a monstrous-feminine machine – as a key point in the journey of discovery enacted by player and game characters, we conclude that machines and androids’ intent understanding and performance of human values, such as beauty, love and consumerism, positions the player as the monster all along.