NieR: Automata Creators Address Censorship Rumors, Blame Subtitles
Jun 14, 2025 4:56 PMNier: Automata producers Yosuke Saito and Yoko Taro have addressed recent rumors surrounding the character designs in their acclaimed game. They clarified that any claims of censorship for Western audiences stem from a mistranslated subtitle. In a recent interview, Taro emphasized their unique approach to character creation, stating that they intentionally depart from conventional Western sci-fi tropes. While Saito acknowledged certain character traits may pose issues in some regions, both maintained that no actual censorship took place and that mistranslations misled fans. Former PlayStation executive Shuhei Yoshida praised Nier: Automata as transformative for the Japanese gaming industry, highlighting its success despite initial concerns about overseas appeal.
Did Nier: Automata face censorship for its character designs?No, the creators deny any censorship occurred, attributing misunderstandings to mistranslations of dialogue and subtitles.
Nier: Automata, released in 2017, is a critical and commercial success that revitalized interest in Japanese video games during a time when the industry was struggling. With its deeply philosophical storytelling, intriguing character designs, and unique gameplay mechanics, Nier: Automata has solidified its place as a milestone title, influencing many other games in its wake. The game continues to draw attention with the upcoming Nier: Automata anime adaptation and potential hints at a future sequel.
Alex Riverton
Alex Riverton is a seasoned journalist with over a decade of experience in the gaming industry. Known for their in-depth analysis and hands-on previews, Alex has built a reputation for insightful commentary on gameplay mechanics and storytelling in videogames.
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Sephiroth commented on: 2025-06-14 17:22:10
It’s funny how Nier: Automata’s biggest controversy turned out to be a translation hiccup—meanwhile, the game’s out here making players question their own humanity. Classic Yoko Taro, keeping us on our toes even years later. (Keeps it light, nods to the article’s clarification, and ties it back to the game’s enduring impact.)
Mr. Bison commented on: 2025-06-14 17:16:16
Glad to see Yoko Taro’s wild creative vision stayed intact—mistranslations causing drama is peak Nier energy. Also, can we just appreciate how this game somehow made existential dread *fun* (Keeps it casual, acknowledges the article’s point without rehashing it, and throws in a playful nod to the game’s tone.)
