Plot: 7/10
While the concept is nothing new, it does hold itself together. The first couple of episodes were basically fillers and when the actual plot started, it went pretty fast. Same can be said with the romance shown between Asuna and Kirito. But in the end, the plot of SAO is decent and i don't see how someone can hate it.
Art/Animatoins: 10/10
No matter how much you hate SAO, you cannot deny how good the animations are. The animations for SAO is very well done and are one of the best out there. Every thing from the background details to the light in the fighting scenes. Speaking of which, the fights have very nice, fluid movents and beautiful effects.
Sound: 8/10
The music, voiceactors and soundeffect are pretty good. While the track "Swordland" is used a bit too much for my taste, the tracks do have a bit of variety and they do sound nice and they do fit the scenes that they are shown in.
For the voiceacting, i can say that most of the cast are relatively new and don't really have too many major roles in other animes. For how good of a job they did, i think that they all did a good job. Kirito espically, had a very good voiceactor that fitted him very well.
And just to fit it in, the opening "Crossing Fields" is, though i have grown tired of listening to it, very good song with nice scenery.
Characters: 7/10
The characters are, well... difficult to explain? Kirito is a serious, cocky, strong, calm, slacking, attractive, lucky, smart and kind character, which is a weird combination if you ask me. And like everything else, some like/love it and some dislike/hate it. I, personally, like Kirito alot. For what reason? Í think it is his design, voice and way of fighting.
Speaking of character designs. The clothing for the characters are pretty unique and it is meant in a good way of course.
Personal enjoyment: 9/10
Again, alot of people hate SAO while alot love it aswell. I think that i'm joinnig the loving site. But i do admit the there are alot of flaws, but i also accept them. Which is actually the whole point of this review. If you like something, good. If you dislike something, it is unavoidable. But neither of these sites should go rub up against each other.
So don't go hating on SAO. While some people may support, alot of people are going to fight against you. And in the end, you have only wasted yours and other people's time.
If you have read this far, i thank you. If you haven't watched SAO yet, i thnk you should atleast check it out. If you like it, continue. If you dislike it, drop it and don't force yourself to continue. But until next time, farewell.
By the way, Gun Gale Online is fucking awesome!
