My review will be on the first arc of Sword Art Online, because even I know that ALfhiem was god-awful.
Story: 6
The first 14 or so episodes were fine; they're the only redeeming part of the story in my eyes. The first arc sets up the show, death game and all, follows Kirito and his not so struggles through the virtual world, and climaxes with the end of the game. Seems standard to me.
The setting of the game was the main hook for me, and I'm sure it was too for the thousands of crazy fans who give this show perfect scores. So many of us are enthralled and intrigued by the idea of a death game in a floating castle created by a madman. So many of us want to give up our lives and be a part of the world of Aincrad, a fake castle in a fake game in a fake universe. Usually, only the biggest of anime fans want to live in the settings of their shows, but this series draws in people of all experience levels and makes them want to play a part in it.
There aren't many outstanding twists and turns through the story; it's mostly Kirito and whatever girl he happens to be with at the time taking a stroll through Aincrad until they come across an obstacle that the girl couldn't get past alone and Kirito overcomes it, making the girl fall in love with him. His harem builds, he finds the *one* for him, and tries to settle down with her. Throw in a few good action scenes and a relatively good ending, and that's about all there is to say about the story.
Art: 8
The art design is crisp and clean for the most part, the backgrounds are nice, but the some instances of action scenes look rushed and sloppy. Not Naruto vs Pain fight rushed, but they're clearly not on par with the rest of the visuals.
Sound: 9
One of my favorite parts of the show. I'd get goosebumps every week when the opening theme played. The setting music works nicely with the scenes, and the voice acting is pretty good in my opinion.
Character: 5
From most reviews I've read, the characters are the most hated and critically panned part of the show. For the most part, I can agree; many of the characters are one dimensional, and there is little to no character growth throughout the series. However, I find many of them endearing, quirky, or just likable. Who knows, I have the strangest taste in characters.
Just a tangent about why I believe everyone loves Kirito and why he has to be overpowered. Kirito is meant to be the embodiment of the 16 year old boy inside of us who wants to be the badass hero that can defeat any enemy and overcome all struggles. He's meant to be the lady's man covered in women that some from stereotypical gamer culture wish to be. He's a weak character because he is a stereotype; no one wants to watch a MC struggle and grind to be a mediocre-at-best fighter. They want to see their hero take on all challenges that come his way and overcome them using his immense power.
Enjoyment: 10
Probably the only reason I'm giving this show such a high rating. For some reason, I immensely enjoyed this show. The idea of a death game in a fantasy world appeals heavily to me, being a huge RPG fan. I'd love to spend an afternoon questing in Aincrad with my band of buddies trapped with me.
Overall: 8
It's not hard to see why many critics hate Sword Art for being shallow in the plot and character department, but personally it makes up for it with a great setting, nice action sequences, and good animation and sound. Love it or hate it, Sword Art is probably going to be around for a while.
