NieR: Automata Demo Heads To PlayStation 4 On December 22

Been hankering for the chance to go hands-on with Platinum Games’ upcoming action RPG NieR: Automata? You’re in luck – Square Enix has announced via Twitter that a playable demo will be available to download from the PlayStation Store worldwide on December 22. Previously only confirmed for Japan, Square Enix said during the Western release date confirmation at PlayStation Experience earlier this month that details on a demo for North America and Europe would be forthcoming.

While story specifics are a little foggy, we do know that – gameplay wise – the demo takes place in an abandoned factory, with players taking control of android 2B in order to destroy a dangerous weapon that’s made a home within its walls. Despite the practice having become quite popular, no save data or in-game bonuses will be carried over to the full game.

NieR: Automata launches for PlayStation 4 on February 23, 2017 in Japan, March 7 in North America and in Europe on March 10. A PC version is also in the works, although it won’t be released alongside the former. If you’re a sucker for collector’s editions, Square Enix is offering a Black Box Edition of NieR: Automata (pictured below), that includes six bonus DLC pack, a Collector’s box, SellBook Case, an art book, soundtrack and a figurine of protagonist YoRHa 2B.