English Dub Review: NieR:Automata Ver1.1a “mission [F]ailed”

Overview

This time around, we get a bit of a narrative shift where the viewers experience a bit of a disorienting narrative technique where the viewer experiences events through a “video” recording from the pods, depicting a different 9S alongside the same 2B. The shift between a video log and a pod live stream within the same scene left me confused to a certain extent while the unsettling shit was going down. However, the episode expands on the story effectively, showcasing impressive animations and introducing new S and B/E units outside of the two standard models/leads.

The proceedings begin to intensify as the virus spreads among the YoRHa units, with the transition from calm to tension beautifully underscored by the soundtrack. The portrayal of the resistance fighters and the focus on various S and B models enhance the emotional impact of the events. The brutal scenes where everything goes to hell feel reminiscent of similar scenarios like Order 66 from “Revenge of the Sith”. Thankfully the commander’s growing suspicion of the humans shows that not everyone is completely on board with their “final solution”…

Overall, the episode successfully balanced action with emotional depth, making the virus attack on the YoRHa and resistance forces even more harrowing. While some continuity issues arise, particularly with the first episode’s timeline, the anime manages to offer fresh perspectives that enrich the original game’s narrative. The series continues to build tension and intrigue, leaving me left wondering what could possibly happen next?