NieR Automata Ver1.1a Episode 14: Loneliness is Epidemic

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NieR Automata Ver1.1a Episode 14: Loneliness is Epidemic

Highlights

  • Emotions are prohibited for androids like 2B, but the logic virus brings insecurities to light, leading to tragic consequences.
  • Companionship and community are key themes in this episode, as androids struggle with personal desires and relationships.
  • Sacrifice for the greater good becomes a central theme when Resistance leader Lily must make a difficult decision in the face of the logic virus.

As a longtime fan of NieR: Automata, I must say that episode 14 of Ver1.1a has left me utterly captivated. The way emotions and relationships are explored in this anime is nothing short of masterful. This episode serves as a poignant reminder of the fragility of companionship and the power of community.

As a long-time fan of action RPG games and someone who has spent countless hours immersed in virtual worlds, I can confidently say that if you haven’t checked out NieR Automata Ver1.1a streaming on Crunchyroll yet, you’re missing out on a truly unique gaming experience. Be warned, though, as the following discussion may contain spoilers for episode 14.

2B, designated as 2E, is aware that humanity has ceased to exist. However, her restrictions prevent her from acting independently, forcing her to adhere to her duties. On the ground, a squad of YoRHa S-type androids are deployed to investigate the area and execute their final offensive against the machine life forms. Unfortunately, these YoRHa units contracted a virus, except for 9S and 2B, the only two androids who hadn’t backed up their data at The Bunker. It appears that this virus has also affected the Resistance.

Love in Loneliness

NieR Automata Ver1.1a Episode 14: Loneliness is Epidemic

As a gamer, I found this episode emphasized the importance of camaraderie and the value of being part of a team. In an amusing twist, all S-type units except for 9S were paired with B-type units to maintain mission efficiency. In a funny turn of events, 9S was overwhelmed by messages about their relationships, only to snap at 21O when she checked in. Interestingly, though 21O is an O-type model, she had reprogrammed herself for combat. This revelation gave us a peek into her private aspirations. To the players, it was clear that she yearned for a family, but to me, she always seemed to view 9S as more of a child than a peer. Just before ending communication with 9S, there was a hint in 21O’s tone that suggested a deeper bond between them – one that transcended the usual hierarchical relationship of subordinate and superior.

Insecurity is Contagious

NieR Automata Ver1.1a Episode 14: Loneliness is Epidemic

Following the virus invasion, it’s uncertain if 21O was infected, but we can observe the outcomes of other S-type and B-type robots. The logic-based virus is known for causing unpredictable behavior, yet the alterations in their dialogues hint at more malicious intentions. For instance, 4S keeps repeating “look at me, look only at me”, while one of the B-types repeatedly asked her partner if he hated her before killing them both. Earlier in the episode, an S-type robot questioned 9S about how to respond when his B-type companion asked him about her, suggesting a deeper emotional turmoil. Maybe the virus doesn’t just affect brain chemistry, but brings out hidden feelings and thoughts.

2B stated in a previous episode that emotions are prohibited, and though it can be argued that she only says it as a means to distance herself from 9S, there may be another reason. Letting their emotions get the better of them can become their own undoing, and the logic virus does just that. In episode 6, when Lily is infected and attacks No. 2, she laments the fact that she’s powerless and has no hope. Before this, she was timid and kept her thoughts to herself, but her insecurities became a weapon upon being infected.

For The Greater Good

NieR Automata Ver1.1a Episode 14: Loneliness is Epidemic

In the ranks of the Resistance, Comma (a fellow member) contracts the virus before any treatment is available. Remaining aware enough to separate himself, he allows Lily to take his life. This pivotal event significantly impacted Lily, as she has always valued family ties and camaraderie. As the leader of our group, she was compelled to set aside her emotional attachments and lose yet another cherished ally. In assuming Rose’s position, her empathetic spirit is evident in the decisions of a powerful leader.

As a gamer, I never anticipated this twist in the game, but now it seems like my android characters have been thrust into uncharted territory. With the return of the mysterious Red Girls, it won’t be long before we uncover the real nature of the “ultimate showdown” that lies ahead.

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2024-08-14 22:35