Square Enix once again toyed with the emotions of NieR series fans by announcing the mysterious project NieR: Cosmic Horror. A countdown and intriguing teaser immediately sparked rumors of an upcoming new game, but unfortunately, it turned out to be nothing more than a skillfully executed April Fool’s joke.
Speculation about a new installment in the franchise began circulating on April 1st when a mysterious video with a timer appeared online. The community, which had long awaited a continuation, was stirred up. Although the publication date immediately raised suspicions, many fans still believed in the announcement’s authenticity. This was partly due to the unique style of game designer Yoko Taro, known for his unconventional marketing approaches. However, the official NieR account soon confirmed that NieR: Cosmic Horror was merely a prank, apologizing for the commotion it caused.
The reaction to this stunt was mixed. Some players appreciated the specific humor, which perfectly fit the brand’s spirit. Others, however, expressed disappointment, as the teaser was so convincing it looked like a full announcement. Despite the years that have passed since NieR: Automata’s release, Square Enix achieved its goal: the NieR franchise was actively discussed across the internet for several hours, once again drawing public attention.