TL;DR
- Collect all 33 weapons before completing your third playthrough to unlock Endings C, D, and E
- Weapons are categorized into story rewards, purchasable items, exploration finds, sidequest rewards, and DLC content
- Weapon types include one-handed swords, two-handed swords, and spears with distinct acquisition methods
- Multiple playthroughs are mandatory regardless of when you complete your collection
- Strategic planning prevents missing time-sensitive weapons and optimizes collection efficiency
To experience the complete narrative arc of Nier Replicant, you must secure all 33 available weapons before concluding your third playthrough. This comprehensive collection is essential for accessing the game’s multiple endings that reveal crucial story elements.
Nier Replicant features five distinct endings that collectively unveil the full scope of its emotionally resonant storyline. One ending offers entirely new content, even for veterans of the original release. Each subsequent playthrough introduces narrative variations and requires specific completion conditions. While our endings guide details the specific requirements, the common thread connecting them all is comprehensive weapon acquisition.
The arsenal consists of 33 distinct armaments organized into three primary classifications: single-handed blades, two-handed greatswords, and thrusting spears. Acquisition methods vary significantly—some appear automatically through narrative progression, others require purchasing from merchants, while many demand thorough exploration or quest completion. Several weapons offer multiple acquisition paths, providing flexibility in your collection strategy.
Critical path progression demands that you possess every weapon before the final confrontation during your third playthrough to unlock Endings C, D, and E. Note that simply collecting all weapons by your second playthrough isn’t sufficient—the third playthrough completion remains mandatory. For broader gameplay context, consult our Complete Guide to similar collection systems in other games.

Several essential weapons join your inventory automatically as you advance through critical story milestones. These narrative-gated weapons typically cannot be missed if you complete main quest objectives.
- Nameless Blade
- This foundational weapon is automatically equipped during the initial tutorial sequence, serving as your introduction to Nier Replicant’s combat mechanics.
- Moonrise
- While traveling toward Seafront during early game exploration, you’ll encounter a civilian besieged by Shades. Successfully rescuing this NPC rewards you with this reliable early-game blade.
- Rebirth
- This weapon is granted following a significant narrative development in Facade during the first act. The acquisition coincides with major story revelations.
- Complete all main story sequences to secure narrative-locked weapons
- Purchase all available weapons from regional vendors before advancing story milestones
- Thoroughly explore all regions, revisiting areas after obtaining new abilities
- Complete all sidequests as they become available to avoid missing time-sensitive weapons
- Attempt “15 Nightmares” challenges after main game completion for DLC weapons
Pro tip: Always thoroughly explore areas immediately after major story events, as some weapons only become available during specific narrative windows. Missing these opportunities may require additional playthroughs to correct.
Various merchants throughout Nier Replicant’s world offer weapons for purchase using in-game currency. Availability often depends on story progression and regional economic conditions.
Strategic purchasing: Prioritize weapons from vendors in areas you may not revisit frequently. Some shop inventories update based on story progression, potentially making certain weapons unavailable if not purchased during initial visits. For similar acquisition systems, see our Weapons Unlock guide for comparison.
Budget management: Weapon costs vary significantly, with later-game options requiring substantial gold investment. Consider completing side quests for additional funding before making major purchases.
The expansive environments of Nier Replicant conceal numerous weapons waiting to be discovered by thorough explorers. These hidden items often require deviation from main paths and careful environmental observation.
Exploration efficiency: Revisit previously cleared areas after obtaining new abilities or story progression, as additional pathways may become accessible. Some weapons are cleverly concealed in seemingly insignificant locations.
Common oversight: Many players miss exploration weapons by rushing through areas. Implement systematic searching patterns, paying particular attention to dead ends, elevated platforms, and destructible environmental elements.
Numerous optional questlines reward unique weapons upon completion. These side activities often reveal additional character development and world-building elements beyond the main narrative.
Quest timing awareness: Some sidequests become unavailable after reaching certain story milestones. Complete optional content as it becomes available rather than postponing until later playthroughs.
For complementary gameplay systems, our Class Guide offers insights into character specialization that parallels Nier’s weapon diversity.
The “15 Nightmares” content introduces additional weapons through specific challenge scenarios. These DLC weapons often require mastering advanced combat techniques and understanding enemy behavior patterns.
Challenge preparation: Before attempting nightmare content, ensure your character is adequately leveled and equipped. These challenges typically demand higher skill levels than main story content.
Progression requirements: Some nightmare weapons may require completion of specific main game objectives before becoming accessible. Consult in-game prompts for specific unlock conditions.
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No reproduction without permission:SeeYouSoon Game Club » Nier Replicant Guide: How To Get All The Weapons For The Endings (Spoiler-Free) Complete guide to collecting all 33 weapons in Nier Replicant for unlocking multiple game endings
