Nier Automata's Epic Music Surprises Fans at Olympics

During the Paris Olympics, a Japanese synchronized swimming team captivated audiences by performing to "A Beautiful Song" from the soundtrack of the acclaimed action RPG NieR: Automata. Despite finishing in fourth place, just six points shy of a medal, the performance was well-received by fans and the game's creators alike, including lead singer Emi Evans and director Yoko Taro. This event marks another intersection of video games and sports, reminiscent of other athletes openly sharing their gaming interests.

Given the ongoing popularity of video games and the increasing overlap between gaming culture and sports, it’s likely that more athletes will embrace video game soundtracks in their routines, promoting a sense of community in both industries.

NieR: Automata was released in 2017 and quickly became a cultural phenomenon, known for its deep storytelling, engaging gameplay, and hauntingly beautiful music. The game, developed by PlatinumGames and published by Square Enix, follows androids 2B and 9S as they battle robotic enemies in a post-apocalyptic world. Its unique narrative structure and philosophical themes have earned it critical acclaim and a dedicated fanbase.