NieR Automata Ver1.1a Episode 18: A2’s Hidden Kindness

NieR Automata Ver1.1a Episode 18: A2's Hidden Kindness

Highlights

  • 9S is going through the stages of grief and may not overcome it, unlike A2 who has accepted her comrades’ death.
  • A2’s change of heart towards the friendly machines shows the importance of learning and empathizing with one another.
  • Despite shared experiences, Lily and A2 have chosen different paths, proving that we shape our own lives by our choices.

As a seasoned gamer with countless hours spent navigating virtual landscapes, I must say that NieR: Automata Ver1.1a has been one of the most thought-provoking and emotionally resonant experiences I’ve encountered. The storylines of A2, 9S, Lily, and their AI companions have struck a chord deep within me, reminding me of life’s complexities and our inherent need for connection.


As a long-time fan of NieR Automata, I can’t help but share my excitement about episode 18 of Ver1.1a, now streaming on Crunchyroll. Having played through multiple playthroughs and delving deep into the game’s lore, I feel that this anime adaptation has managed to capture the essence of the original experience while also expanding upon it in captivating ways. So if you haven’t yet, be prepared for some potential spoilers as you dive into this intricate story. Enjoy the journey!

Following the retrieval of A2’s memories, Pod 042 supervises her recuperation. Faced with a settlement populated by passive machine entities, she is beyond astonished. Although Pod 042 now looks after her, it lacks control over her since it continues to adhere to 2B’s instructions. However, A2 gradually becomes more accepting of the helpful machines, even though she vows to eliminate them. Simultaneously, 9S recovers at the Resistance camp due to Devola and Popula’s efforts.

Previously, we knew little about them, but those acquainted with the NieR series would recognize that the sisters are modeled after replicants called the same name. These replicants were falsely accused of causing human extinction following the collapse of Project Gestalt. Despite needing rest, 9S sets out to avenge 2B. However, he is not yet ready to accept her demise; when a Resistance member buries the dead in a temporary graveyard, 9S denies losing someone when the subject comes up. Incidentally, as he departs, A2 recovers at the Resistance encampment, where she ultimately meets up with Lily once more.

Stages of Grief

NieR Automata Ver1.1a Episode 18: A2's Hidden Kindness

Previously, it seems that character 9S has shown signs of admiration or fascination towards humans, often offering advice to 2B. With the latest developments, 9S’s behavior appears strikingly human-like, mirroring a psychological concept known as “the stages of grief.” This theory suggests anywhere from four to seven stages, though all versions share commonalities: anger, denial, bargaining, and acceptance. So far, 9S has exhibited anger by attacking A2 in a fit of rage. Currently, he’s in a state of denial, refusing to accept 2B’s death while still harboring his anger. It’s tragic that some people never fully recover from grief, and it seems that 9S might be one such example.

NieR Automata Ver1.1a Episode 18: A2's Hidden Kindness

Contrarily, it appears that both Lily and A2 have progressed to the last phase and surpassed it. Lily assumes Rose’s position as leader, while A2 persists in living despite the loss of her comrades. Interestingly, A2 has developed a sense of compassion towards the machine lifeforms in Pascal’s village after gaining more lucidity in her memories. Instead of shunning them, she comforts them when they express fear and unease by jokingly sharing her enjoyment, much like a caretaker with children. This action demonstrates that A2 retains the inner gentleness that was characteristic of her No. 2 persona, as Lily recalls upon their reunion.

There’s no “I” in Team

NieR Automata Ver1.1a Episode 18: A2's Hidden Kindness

Lily and A2 are happy to reunite, yet their situations have shifted. Unlike Lily, who has grown to cooperate with mechanical beings, A2 remains hostile towards them (and to some extent, Lily too). However, it’s worth mentioning that while they’ve shared similar experiences, there is a significant difference: Lily has forged connections within the Resistance, whereas A2 prefers solitude. But one truth remains undeniable – our lives are influenced by our experiences, but we ultimately define ourselves. The path our lives take depends on our choices. And considering A2’s transformation following exposure to a new perspective, it’s clear that growth often comes from learning and understanding others.

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2024-08-17 22:06