NieR: Automata has captured the hearts of players with its compelling narrative and deep gameplay mechanics. One of the most effective strategies early in the game is utilizing a straightforward EXP farm located in the Desert Zone. This farming spot proves invaluable for leveling up quickly, even when players are just beginning their journey. Enemies in this area respawn continuously, eliminating the need for tedious backtracking, while also providing opportunities to gather G and crucial upgrade materials that will enhance your capabilities as you progress.
Why This Desert EXP Farm Works So Well
The beauty of this farming method lies in its longevity and accessibility. Regardless of your character level, the enemies in this area consistently respawn, which ensures a steady flow of experience. You don’t have to worry about running back and forth to reset enemy spawns; instead, you will find groups of foes appearing after a short wait. This design keeps the pace brisk and the experience points abundant, making your leveling journey smooth.
When This Farm Becomes Available
To unlock this nifty EXP farming spot, players must reach the Desert Zone and progress through the game until they encounter a peculiar machine gathering in the Desert Housing Complex. Typically, this milestone occurs two to three hours into gameplay. Following an initial boss encounter, the agricultural region turns into an excellent farming resource for steady experience gains.

Getting There From Desert Camp
Starting at the Desert Camp, make your way towards the Desert Housing Complex. Continue along the path until you reach the same arena-like space from the previous machine gathering. Once you arrive, you’ll encounter enemies identifiable by their red bands. It’s in this area that your farming efforts will truly begin to shine.
Target The Self-Destruct Enemies For Easy Clears
Among the many foes you’ll encounter, focus primarily on the Small Exploder machines. These self-destructing units can detonate and damage nearby enemies, allowing you to clear groups more efficiently. This feature is pivotal for early farming, as you can leverage the explosions of Small Exploders to weaken or even eliminate surrounding enemies. As a result, battles proceed at a quicker pace, making it easier to farm experience even when your character is at a lower level.

Huge EXP Gains From High-Level Enemies
One of the most rewarding aspects of this farming spot is the presence of foes that can be significantly higher than your character’s level, often around level 38. For players around levels 8 or 9, this creates a substantial experience payout per kill. The continuous respawns mean that players can keep leveling steadily, allowing this farm to remain effective until levels 40 or even 50, depending on how much time you choose to invest here.

Managing The Risk At Low Levels
Initially, this farm can be quite treacherous. Small Exploder detonations can easily wipe out lower-level players in a single hit. To mitigate this risk, focus on mobility and evasive maneuvers. The safest approach is to create distance and trigger explosions from afar. If available, defensive Plug-In Chips like Defense Up or Max HP Up can provide crucial support, but positioning is ultimately the key to survival.
Use Explosions To Drop Bigger Targets Too
Additionally, you can utilize the blasts from Small Exploders against larger adversaries, such as the Goliath Biped machines. Employing detonation as part of your strategy allows you to inflict significant damage without needing to directly engage these tougher foes. The primary goal remains consistent: set off explosions safely, evade incoming attacks, and dismantle enemy groups before they can close in on you.

Extra Rewards: G, Machine Core, And Rare Upgrade Materials
This farming location is treasure trove for not just experience but also valuable loot. Players can earn substantial amounts of G and acquire rare drops like Machine Cores, Pristine Screws, and Pristine Cables, among other upgrade materials. With consistent farming efforts, you can push your weapons toward higher upgrade levels earlier than typical, particularly if you continue farming through the mid-teen level ranges.
Smart Saving To Protect Progress
Given the high-risk nature of this farming area, frequent saving is essential. It’s wise to farm a few levels, exit, save your progress, and then return. This strategy protects your hard-earned gains while allowing you to capitalize on the high EXP potential and steady respawns available in the Desert Zone.
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