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Acquiring certain crafting materials in NieR: Automata proves significantly more challenging than others. While not visually distinct, some resources, such as Pristine Screws, are exceptionally rare.
Although purchasable from Emil, his inventory fluctuates, making direct acquisition from machines a potentially faster and cheaper alternative. Here are two farming strategies:
Where To Find Pristine Screws in NieR: Automata
Goliath-Bipeds, the largest non-boss machines, drop various screws, with Pristine Screws being the rarest. Higher-level Goliath-Bipeds yield a higher drop rate, making early-game acquisition nearly impossible.
Several locations reliably spawn Goliath-Bipeds. The pit where you first encounter Adam is one such spot, also ideal for farming Machine Arms. However, the Goliath-Bipeds here are around level 30, resulting in a low Pristine Screw drop rate. The advantage is their constant respawn, allowing for rapid farming despite the low drop rate.
Alternatively, during the third playthrough, fast travel to the Forest Castle: Front access point. Two level 49 Goliath-Bipeds guard the entrance, offering a better drop chance. However, these do not respawn; you must fast travel to a distant location and return to repeat the process.
Both methods benefit from equipping a drop-rate enhancing plug-in chip.
Which Farming Method Is More Efficient?
The optimal method depends on two key factors:
- Game and system load times:
- Your patience level:
Farming Pristine Screws is inherently time-consuming. While the Forest method boasts a higher drop rate, it involves frequent loading screens, minimizing actual gameplay. Choose this method if load times are inconsequential. If you prefer continuous gameplay and simultaneous material/XP farming, the pit offers consistent action and rewards.