Nier Automata has carved out its place as a modern classic in the action game genre, celebrated for its intricate gameplay mechanics and its storytelling that intertwines philosophy, existentialism, and deep emotional themes.

In a revealing interview with AV Watch, esteemed PlayStation veteran Shuhei Yoshida hailed Nier Automata as the “game that changed everything.” He emphasized that the title played a pivotal role in rejuvenating the Japanese gaming industry, which had been floundering during the late 2000s and early 2010s as developers attempted to align too closely with Western market trends.

Yoshida noted, “Yoko Taro (the game's director) created Nier Automata without any concerns about international sales and the game became a tremendous success.” This perspective resonates with renowned game designer Masahiro Sakurai, who stressed the significance of Japanese developers prioritizing their domestic audience rather than conforming to overseas expectations.

Adding another layer to this narrative, Yoko Taro disclosed on social media that his producer, Yosuke Saito, had explicitly instructed him to disregard Western opinions. Taro stated, “I’m honored that Automata is being praised, but it was Saito-P who commanded me to create it with a focus on the Japanese market, without worrying about what Western audiences would think.

He recalled Saito reinforcing this notion by saying, “You can’t make a game for overseas, so (at least) do your best to make it for Japan.”

In a follow-up, Saito sought to clarify his earlier remarks, emphasizing, “What I conveyed back then was more nuanced. As Japanese creators, we shouldn't feel obligated to cater to the overseas market. We can certainly attract a sizeable audience among those who genuinely wish to engage with a Japanese game made by a fellow Japanese—a sentiment captured in Yoko Taro’s unique storytelling style.”

This bold approach has sparked a conversation about the importance of authentic cultural expression in video games. Nier Automata not only achieved commercial success but also resonated with a diverse audience, challenging the notion that games must conform to specific regional standards to find success.

The success of Nier Automata may have set a precedent for future titles, encouraging developers to embrace their cultural roots rather than chase after trends in the global gaming market. As gaming continues to evolve, the question remains: will other creators follow Taro and Saito's lead and focus on crafting experiences that are true to their identities? Only time will tell.