Sword Art Online (SAO) is a popular anime series that has captivated audiences with its thrilling storyline and captivating characters. The franchise has expanded beyond the realm of anime and has ventured into the world of video games. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore all the Sword Art Online games released to date, providing an in-depth look at each game and its chronological order.
The Sword Art Online Game Series
Bandai Namco is the publisher behind the Sword Art Online games, which have been developed for various platforms. These games offer players the opportunity to immerse themselves in the virtual world of SAO and experience the adventures of their favorite characters. Each game presents a different part of the story, respecting the default release order of Sword Art Online entries.
Every SAO in Order of their Release Date
Sword Art Online: Infinity Moment – 2013
The first game in the Sword Art Online series is Infinity Moment, which debuted in 2013 exclusively in Japan for the PlayStation Portable (PSP). Although it is no longer available, a remaster version was bundled with the release of Re: Hollow Fragment. Infinity Moment follows a different storyline after the first season of the anime. Players assume the role of Leafa, Sinon, and other VRMMORPG players who find themselves trapped in the game after Kirito’s victory over Heathcliff.
The gameplay of Infinity Moment resembles that of an MMORPG, allowing players to freely explore the world, complete main and side quests, upgrade weapons, and interact with various NPCs.
Sword Art Online: Hollow Fragment – 2014
Hollow Fragment, released in 2014 for the PlayStation Vita, was the first Sword Art Online game to reach an international audience. This game follows Kirito as the primary character and takes place after the Aincrad story arc. The gameplay of Hollow Fragment combines action-based combat, RPG elements, and free-roaming exploration. Players can engage in battles with a party, utilizing skills, dodges, and combos.
In Hollow Fragment, players have the opportunity to interact with NPCs, form parties, and even pursue romantic relationships. The game features an alternate plot where Sword Art Online continues to exist even after Kirito’s defeat of Heathcliff on Floor 75.
Dengeki Bunko: Fighting Climax – 2014 (spin-off)
Dengeki Bunko: Fighting Climax is a 2D fighting game spin-off that was released in 2014 for the PlayStation 3. Although initially available only in Japan, there is an option to play the foreign version as well. The game features crossover heroes from various manga and anime series, including Sword Art Online, Durarara, Shakugan no Shana, and Accel World.
Dengeki Bunko: Fighting Climax Ignition – 2015 (spin-off)
Fighting Climax Ignition is the 2015 update to the 2D fighting game. It was released for the PlayStation Vita (Japan) and PS4. The game features a theme song by LiSA, a popular Japanese rock artist known for her contributions to the Demon Slayer Season 1 anime.
Sword Art Online: Lost Song – 2015
Released in 2015, Lost Song is an RPG available for the PlayStation Vita, Windows, PS3, and PS4. While it incorporates characters and events from the SAO franchise, Lost Song explores a new storyline set in the world of Alfheim Online. Kirito once again takes on the role of the protagonist, embarking on a quest to capture a floating land called Svart Alfheim.
Lost Song introduces aerial combat, allowing players to engage in battles while riding airborne creatures. The game offers a wide range of weapons and three different weapon types, each with its own unique skills and advantages. It also features multiplayer modes, including team-based PvP arenas and cooperative missions with up to four players.
Sword Art Online Re: Hollow Fragment – 2015 (remaster)
Re: Hollow Fragment is a remastered version of the original Hollow Fragment game, released in 2015 for PlayStation 4 and PC. This version includes enhanced HD graphics and makes the Infinity Moment game available worldwide. While playing Re: Hollow Fragment, players can choose to assume the role of Kirito or create a custom avatar. However, other NPCs will always refer to the player character as Kirito, even if a female lead is created.
Sword Art Online: Hollow Realization – 2016
Hollow Realization, released in 2016 for PS Vita, Windows, and PS4, takes place in a new game universe called Sword Art: Origin. This universe is a faithful recreation of the Aincrad world, and the game’s primary character is a 14-year-old AI named Premiere. Together with Kirito, players venture into the Ainground to uncover the dark mystery behind the new version of the game.
Hollow Realization combines action-packed battles with MMO and RPG elements. Players can create custom characters and form parties with over 300 NPCs. Bonding with NPCs strengthens their abilities, and players can shuffle their team members to utilize their individual powers and skills. The game also introduces a new battle system, a healing system, and a revival system. Multiplayer modes include team-based PvP battles and cooperative missions with up to four players.
Accel World vs. Sword Art Online: Millennium Twilight – 2017
Accel World vs. Sword Art Online: Millennium Twilight, released in 2017 for PS Vita, PS4, and Windows, is an exciting crossover between the Sword Art Online and Accel World franchises. In this game, the worlds of Accel World and Svart Alfheim merge, and Kirito must challenge the seven kings from Accel World to rescue Yui.
The gameplay of Millennium Twilight is similar to Hollow Realization and incorporates elements from Lost Song. Players can engage in aerial battles and freely explore the game world, from the sky to the ground. The game features characters from both franchises, allowing players to form a team with three characters from two different universes. Sword Art Online heroes rely on aerial combat, utility skills, and magic, while Accel World characters excel in speed, special techniques, and melee combat. The game offers character progression, team-based PvP battles, and a cooperative mode for up to four players.
Sword Art Online: Fatal Bullet – 2018
Fatal Bullet, released in 2018 for PlayStation 4, Nintendo Switch, Xbox One, and Windows, offers players a unique action/shooting RPG experience set in the world of Gun Gale Online. Players can create custom avatars and explore the virtual world of Gun Gale Online, engaging in action-packed battles and encountering both new and familiar faces from the Sword Art Online universe.
Fatal Bullet introduces firearms in addition to melee weapons, allowing players to wield a sword and gun simultaneously. The game also features the Bullet Line System, which enables easy traversal between areas using zip lines. Players can communicate with NPCs, recruit them into their party, and unlock character progression options. The game includes multiplayer modes, such as cooperative missions and 4v4 PvP battles.
Sword Art Online: Integral Factor – 2018 (Spin-Off)
Integral Factor is a mobile MMORPG released by Bandai Namco in 2017 for iOS and Android platforms. The game is set in the Aincrad world, where players fight their way through 100 floors. Players earn experience to enhance their skills and stats, and they can join forces with other players to defeat bosses, explore dungeons, and participate in raids. Integral Factor offers fast-paced gameplay with a variety of ranged and melee weapons, skills, combos, and potions.
Sword Art Online: Alicization Lycoris – 2020
Alicization Lycoris, the latest core game in the Sword Art Online series, was released in 2020 for PlayStation 4, Windows, and Xbox One. The game is based on the Human Realm Segment of the Alicization Arc and features an original story set in the Underworld. Players assume the role of Kirito and embark on a new JRPG adventure with modern visuals.
In Alicization Lycoris, Kirito wakes up in a virtual world that is unfamiliar yet eerily familiar. Alongside his new friend Eugeo, Kirito sets out to uncover the truth behind this new world. The game features action-packed battles with sacred arts, various SAO characters, and sword skills. It also includes a parrying and guarding system, as well as healing and revival mechanics. Players can team up with three other characters in their party and utilize team combo assaults. Additionally, multiplayer modes allow for cooperative play and 4v4 PvP battles.
Every Sword Art Online Game in Chronological Order
To summarize, here is a list of all the Sword Art Online games in chronological order:
- Sword Art Online: Infinity Moment – 2013
- Sword Art Online: Hollow Fragment – 2014
- Dengeki Bunko: Fighting Climax – 2014 (spin-off)
- Dengeki Bunko: Fighting Climax Ignition – 2015 (spin-off)
- Sword Art Online: Lost Song – 2015
- Sword Art Online Re: Hollow Fragment – 2015 (remaster)
- Sword Art Online: Hollow Realization – 2016
- Accel World vs. Sword Art Online: Millennium Twilight – 2017
- Sword Art Online: Fatal Bullet – 2018
- Sword Art Online: Integral Factor – 2018 (spin-off)
- Sword Art Online: Alicization Lycoris – 2020
FAQs
What is a Light Novel?
A light novel is a type of Japanese novel that features simple grammar, drawings, and engaging stories.
What is a VRMMORPG?
A VRMMORPG, or Virtual Reality Massively Multiplayer Online Role-Playing Game, is a genre of online games that support thousands of real-life players in a virtual world. Players use specialized equipment to translate their senses into the virtual environment.
What is “Accel World”?
Accel World is a popular light novel series written by Reki Kawahara. It is published by ASCII Media Works under the Dengeki Bunko Magazine. Accel World also has an anime adaptation and a manga series. The story is set approximately 24 years after the events of Sword Art Online and follows a protagonist named Haru, who becomes involved with shady gaming corporations.
Conclusion
The Sword Art Online game series offers fans the opportunity to dive deeper into the SAO universe and experience thrilling adventures alongside their favorite characters. From the first game, Infinity Moment, to the latest release, Alicization Lycoris, each game has its own unique storyline and gameplay mechanics. Whether you prefer exploring open worlds, engaging in fast-paced battles, or forming parties with NPCs, the Sword Art Online games have something for every fan. So pick up your virtual sword and embark on your own SAO journey!
Other Technical Reviews:- Reviews
