What this is
The NieR:Automata 9th Anniversary Fair 2026 is a nationwide retail celebration marking nine years since the release of Square Enix's acclaimed action RPG NieR:Automata, developed by PlatinumGames and directed by Yoko Taro. The game, released in 2017, became a cultural phenomenon known for its philosophical narrative, memorable characters like 2B and 9S, and its haunting soundtrack by Keiichi Okabe. The fair runs across all animate retail locations in Japan as well as the animate Online Shop, making it accessible to fans throughout the country. It serves as both a merchandise event and a fan appreciation moment, celebrating the game's enduring legacy in the anime and gaming community.
Who should go
This event is ideal for fans of NieR:Automata and the broader NieR/Drakengard franchise who want to collect limited anniversary merchandise and bonus postcards. Anime and gaming enthusiasts who enjoy browsing dedicated retail spaces filled with figures, goods, and exclusive items will feel right at home in any animate store. Casual fans curious about the franchise or looking for gifts for NieR devotees will also find plenty to explore. To make the most of the bonus postcard campaign, plan to spend in multiples of ¥2,200 to maximise the number of postcards you receive.
Good to know
Bonus postcards are distributed while supplies last, so arriving early in the campaign period is strongly recommended if you want to collect all 9 designs. Purchases and reservation deposits both count toward the ¥2,200 threshold, meaning pre-ordering upcoming NieR:Automata products can also earn you postcards. animate stores generally accept major credit cards including foreign-issued Visa and Mastercard, though cash is always a safe backup. The animate Online Shop ships internationally to some regions — check the site for your country's eligibility before ordering. Postcard designs are typically random or distributed in order, so ask staff at your local animate about how designs are allocated.
This event was sourced and translated from Japanese by What's On Japan. Details may change — verify with the official source before attending.