As the gaming community celebrates the ninth anniversary of Nier: Automata, producers from Square Enix have hinted at potential surprises for fans. In an interview with Gematsu, series producer Yosuke Saito mentioned that while they are preparing “just a little something,” he advised fans not to get overly excited. His comments suggest that while something related to the beloved franchise is on the horizon, it may not be a new mainline game.
Since its initial release in 2017, Nier: Automata has enjoyed immense popularity, leading to a steady stream of merchandise featuring its iconic character, 2B. Despite this success, the absence of a sequel or new mainline title has left fans eager for more. Saito’s remarks indicate that the next installment in the franchise—or an alternative project—could arrive as early as next year.
Yoko Taro, the director known for his unique storytelling and creative vision, has previously addressed fan concerns regarding the franchise’s future. He clarified that projects he had been working on were cancelled during development, reaffirming his commitment to quality. “I believe that if I’m going to release something weird, I’d be better off not releasing anything at all,” Taro stated. His dedication to delivering exceptional content has resonated with fans, even as they await new announcements.
Looking ahead, Saito also highlighted that 2026 marks the 40th anniversary of Dragon Quest, another major franchise under the Square Enix umbrella. He expressed hope that fans would join in a grand celebration, suggesting that the company has significant plans for its legacy titles in the near future.
While specific details about the upcoming project remain under wraps, speculation abounds regarding what form it might take. Possibilities range from a spin-off game to a multimedia project, or even new merchandise and crossovers. The excitement among fans is palpable, as they anticipate any news that may emerge as the anniversary approaches.
In a landscape where franchises often evolve and expand, the Nier series continues to hold a special place in the hearts of gamers. As the community reflects on the impact of Nier: Automata, the hints from Saito offer a glimmer of hope that more content is on the way. With dedicated creators like Taro at the helm, fans can remain optimistic about the future of this innovative series.
