NieR Automata features numerous optional side quests that enrich its world while rewarding players with valuable crafting materials and EXP. Among these optional missions is Treasure Hunt at the Castle, an intriguing task that takes players back into the overgrown Forest Castle. Completing this quest grants generous rewards while providing a deeper look into the history of the Forest Kingdom's machine lifeforms.

Starting the Treasure Hunt Quest

To initiate the quest, players must first complete the main storyline event titled Report on A2. Afterwards, head to the archway connecting Pascal's Machine Village and the Forest Zone to find a peculiar machine lifeform. Speaking to this NPC triggers the rumor of a secret treasure hidden within the castle depths.

Before venturing back into the castle, ensure your loadout is prepared for combat against high-level machine knights. Gamers who enjoy staying up to date with game guides and industry coverage often follow daily gaming news for optimum build tips and strategies. Once prepared, make your way directly into the Forest Castle structure.

Locating the Three Machine Parts

The core objective requires retrieving three distinct machine parts scattered across different sections of the castle. The first piece can be found in a treasure chest located after descending a level near the castle entrance corridor. The second part is tucked away on the upper ledges of the castle library, reachable by dashing across a high platform.

For the final piece, navigate to the area near Masamune's blacksmith shop. Exit the shop to the right and jump across the broken bridge gap to claim the last part from a chest. Gathering all three items forms the key necessary to open the sealed vault door.

Unlocking the Vault and Defeating the Boss

With the machine parts collected, locate the locked door near the library area to use the newly crafted key. Opening the door reveals a hidden chamber guarded by a powerful, rampaging machine knight. Focus on evasion and fast physical combos to quickly take down the guardian.

After defeating the knight, interact with the storage media inside the vault. This object holds the archived history of the Forest Kingdom, revealing how the machines created the archive out of gratitude toward their original leader.

Quest Completion and Rewards

Return to the quest giver at the Forest Zone gate to report your findings and officially complete the mission. The machine lifeform expresses delight that the vault guardian was defeated.

Upon completion, players receive 10,000G, 1,280 EXP, a Large Recovery item, three Giant Eggs, two Moldavites, and the Letter to the Forest King archive entry. These rare materials are extremely helpful for upgrading weapons and pod capabilities later in the game.