If you have acquired the Codex release of the YoRHa Edition, follow this guide to ensure you are playing the definitive version:
Step 1: Install the Codex Release
Ensure you install the update patches. The initial Codex release was version 1.0; you want the repack that includes the Update v1.1 or later, which fixes the LOD (Level of Detail) pop-in.
Step 2: Install HD Texture Packs
Because the Codex version is unlocked, you can drop mods directly into the data folder. Install the HD Texture Pack (4x upscale for characters) and the LodMod to eliminate distant object flickering.
Step 3: Apply Special K / FAR Mod
Even on Codex, install the latest FAR (Fix Automata Resolution). Configure Global Illumination to High (or off for FPS boost) and set Ambient Occlusion to HBAO+.
Step 4: Controller Configuration NieR is a controller game. The Codex version natively supports DS4 and Xbox prompts perfectly. Do not use mouse/keyboard for this game.
Before you rush off, a crucial note. While the Codex version provides the best technical performance, it does not provide the best online experience. You miss:
The "Best" Hybrid Solution:
| Scenario | Best Version | |----------|--------------| | You own the game or can buy it | Steam YoRHa Edition (post-2021 patch) + optionally install the latest FAR mod | | You want max stability with no setup | Microsoft Store / Game Pass version (different port, runs well out of the box) | | You’re on a very old PC (pre-2016) & can’t update drivers | CODEX release (less background DRM overhead) | | You care about achievements, cloud saves, or online leaderboards | Steam version – CODEX has none |
Bottom line: The CODEX version of NieR: Automata: Game of the YoRHa Edition was once the definitive way to play on PC, but that hasn’t been true since 2021. Today, it’s a historical artifact for pirates – not the “best” experience. nier automata game yorha edition codex best
For a first playthrough, buy the official YoRHa Edition on sale (~$15-20). For archival or offline-only use on an unpatched system, CODEX remains functional but inferior.
NieR: Automata Game of the YoRHa Edition " is widely considered the definitive way to play
this modern classic because it bundles the base game with its major DLC and performance updates.
The "CODEX" mention likely refers to a popular scene group release of the game, while "Best" often points to the game's reputation as a masterpiece of storytelling and combat. What Makes the YoRHa Edition "Best"? Complete Content : It includes the 3C3C1D119440927 DLC
, which adds arena-style challenges and three new costumes based on the original NieR Replicant Bonus Items : You get several "Pod" skins (like the Grimoire Weiss Pod
) and exclusive PlayStation 4 avatars or Valve character accessories depending on the platform. Refined Experience
: It incorporates most of the bug fixes and performance stability updates released after the original 2017 launch. Pro Tips for New Players Top Weapons : For raw power, look for the Spear of the Usurper Type-4O Blade
, the latter of which is a reward for 2B's "Find a Present" quest. Don't Miss Ending Y If you have acquired the Codex release of
: While you can replay almost everything via Chapter Select,
is the only truly missable piece of content if you finish a specific late-game quest without failing it first. Keep Going
: The game requires multiple "playthroughs" to see the full story. Ending A is only about 30% of the actual narrative; the game truly opens up in Route C. , or do you want to know which chips to equip for the best combat build?
NieR:Automata Game of the YoRHa Edition is the definitive version of the critically acclaimed action RPG for PlayStation 4 and PC, bundling the base game with its major expansion and several digital bonuses. It was released in 2019 to replace the original "Launch Edition". Comprehensive Edition Contents
This edition provides the "full experience" by including all previously released paid and pre-order content: : The complete story following androids 2B, 9S, and A2. 3C3C1D119440927 DLC
: This expansion adds three high-difficulty colosseum challenges and three new outfits based on characters from NieR Replicant Universal Bonus Items
: Includes the Grimoire Weiss Pod, Machine Mask Accessory, and various Pod skins (Cardboard, Retro Red, and Retro Grey). Platform-Exclusive Content
: Includes the Play System and amazarashi Head Pod skins, 15 PSN Avatars, and a Dynamic Theme. PC (Steam) The "Best" Hybrid Solution: | Scenario | Best
: Includes the Valve Character Accessory and exclusive digital wallpapers. Performance and "Best" Version Game of the YoRHa Edition
is the standard for PS4 and PC, players often compare it to other versions: The End of YoRHa Edition (Switch)
: Released in 2022, this version is widely praised as one of the best third-party ports for the Nintendo Switch. It includes all YoRHa Edition content plus Switch-exclusive costumes and optional motion controls. PC Technical Note
: The PC version historically required the community-made "FAR" (Fix Automata Resolution) mod to address stability and resolution issues, though official patches eventually improved performance. Pricing and Availability
You can find this edition through major retailers and digital stores: NieR: Automata (Game of The YoRHa Edition)
Below are standout Codex entries and lore moments from the YoRHa Edition that fans find the most compelling, grouped by theme for easy reading.
Nier: Automata — YoRHa Edition is widely regarded as one of the best single-player action RPG experiences of its generation. It combines high-quality combat from PlatinumGames with Yoko Taro’s unconventional narrative design, resulting in strong replay value, emotional impact, and artistic ambition. The YoRHa Edition packages graphical/audio improvements and all DLC, making it the recommended version for new players.