Square Enix ignited the hopes of NieR fans only to extinguish them almost immediately. The mysterious project, NieR: Cosmic Horror, complete with a countdown and a captivating teaser, was revealed to be nothing more than an April Fools’ Day prank, despite many momentarily believing it heralded a new game.
In early April, a cryptic video emerged online, accompanied by a timer and an enigmatic message hinting at a fresh installment in the beloved franchise. This content quickly stirred the community, which has been eagerly awaiting a full sequel to the series for many years.
The catch was the timing: the publication occurred precisely on April 1st, immediately raising suspicions. Nevertheless, a segment of the fanbase still clung to the belief that the announcement was genuine, given the distinctive style of series creator Yoko Taro, known for his unconventional marketing strategies. Ultimately, the official NieR account confirmed that Cosmic Horror was indeed just a joke, apologizing for the resulting commotion and strong reactions.
The stunt elicited a range of emotions. On one hand, players appreciated the humor, deeming it fitting for the brand’s eccentric spirit. On the other, many felt a pang of disappointment, as the teaser had the convincing appearance of a legitimate, fully-fledged project. Many years have passed since the release of NieR: Automata, but Square Enix undeniably achieved its goal: the internet spent several hours actively discussing the franchise.