Series & First Appearance
YoRHa 2-gou B-gata is a character from the anime series NieR:Automata, which is based on the video game of the same name created by Yoko Taro and developed by PlatinumGames. The anime adaptation is produced by A-1 Pictures and premiered in 2023, following the narrative established in the game.
Profile at a Glance
YoRHa 2-gou B-gata, often referred to as 2B, is a combat android created by the YoRHa organization to combat the machine lifeforms invading Earth. Despite being only 3 years old at the time of the series, her demeanor and abilities showcase her advanced design. She typically stands at 168 cm (5’6") in height, including her heels, and weighs 148.8 kg (328.04 lbs).
Personality & Motivations
2B is characterized by her stoic and composed demeanor, often maintaining a serious attitude as she fulfills her mission. Nevertheless, she displays traits of empathy and concern for her fellow androids, especially during interactions with her partner 9S. Her primary motivation lies in the desire to protect humanity and eliminate machine lifeforms, adhering to the directives of the YoRHa organization. Notably, 2B has a penchant for maintaining a bland emotional exterior, which often leads to entertainingly awkward moments of vulnerability, primarily during her exchanges with 9S.
Abilities / Powers
2B possesses exceptional combat skills, specializing in both melee and ranged attacks, using her iconic weapons: a sword and a variety of martial arts techniques. She can also hack into machines, providing her with an edge in battle. Her agility allows her to perform acrobatic maneuvers, making her difficult to hit. A unique aspect of her abilities is her "Pod," an artificial intelligence companion that assists her in combat and functions as a source of information. While she is immensely powerful, her limitations include her reliance on a high-energy resource to fuel her sophisticated abilities, which can lead to exhaustion during prolonged battles.
Major Story Arcs & Growth
Throughout NieR:Automata, 2B undergoes significant character development. Key plot points include her missions alongside 9S, where they uncover the deeper truths behind their existence and confront the senselessness of their eternal conflict against machines. A turning point occurs when 2B is forced to reconsider the nature of her mission and what it means to be an android. The emotional weight of her relationship with 9S also grows, culminating in tense moments that challenge her perception of duty and free will. The revelation of the reality behind YoRHa and the cyclical nature of existence further complicates her character’s motivations and approaches to her mission.
Notable Relationships
2B’s primary relationship is with 9S, her scanner type partner. Their camaraderie evolves from a professional alliance into a deep emotional bond. This relationship is central to the narrative, as their differing perspectives on their missions and humanity bring about significant thematic depth. Additionally, 2B has interactions with fellow YoRHa models, including A2, which further explore the complexities of android existence, loyalty, and their purpose.
Iconic Moments & Quotes
In one standout scene, 2B states, "We are the YoRHa. We will protect humanity." This declaration encapsulates her unwavering commitment to her mission and is emblematic of the androids’ struggles with their roles. Another memorable moment occurs during the climactic battle sequences where the bond between 2B and 9S is put to the test, forcing them to confront harsh truths about themselves and their purpose. These scenes resonate powerfully with fans and highlight the mixture of action and emotional depth that defines the series.
Trivia & Behind-the-Scenes
2B’s design, featuring her distinctive white hair and combat dress, was created by character designer Akihiko Yoshida, renowned for his work in other major JRPGs. In the Japanese version, 2B is voiced by Yui Ishikawa, while in the English adaptation, she is voiced by Laura Bailey. The character has gained popularity, consistently ranking high in fan polls, with over 2,332 member favorites recorded on various platforms. 2B’s cultural impact extends beyond gaming, inspiring a plethora of fan art, cosplay, and merchandise, solidifying her status as an icon within the anime and gaming communities. The gameplay and narrative choices present in NieR:Automata have cemented her as a beloved character who represents themes of existentialism and the duality of human and machine.
Overall, YoRHa 2-gou B-gata embodies the complex themes of identity, duty, and the quest for meaning that permeate the NieR:Automata universe. Her journey reflects the struggles of sentient beings grappling with their purpose—as they seek connection and understanding in an often chaotic world.
