Set in the near future. Virtual reality could very be at its peak because of an Invention called the Nerve Gear, which allows the user to play in a virtual reality as if it’s real life. A MMORGP called Sword Art Online (S.A.O for short) is released as thousands of people rush out to obtain a copy of this limited game, “Kazoto Kirigaya” or “Kirito” is about to log on for the first time sense his experience in beta.
Story 6
Keeping in mind I haven’t read the novels yet!
The entire story leaves a feeling of being rushed, countless times I felt like I was missing something significant, or that it wasn’t elaborated on enough. You couldn’t walk move more than ten feet without falling into another plot hole. It seemed to focus mostly on the action oriented parts of the story leave a bunch of grey area they could have easily expanded on. It’s doesn’t reach coherent timeline till a good part in about episode eight or ten. Before this it would just jump around to significant events that I could easily bet shaped Kirito’s character in the novels.
Character 6
The main the protagonist Kirito and his companion Asuna fill cliché character types with Kirito being the unlikely hero and Asuna being the overall sex appeal. Asuna is used mostly for fan service, which can easily stopped any feelings of being a hero. A romance is apparent between this two but a lot of it feels unnatural and fake. The main problem I had was with the side characters, barely any time is spent on them and most of them don't really have a purpose after their first appearance. Even if they do, you can’t remember their names or why their presence is significant.
Animation / Sound 10
Luckily the artistic and musical aspects of Sword Art Online make for the other aspects. The impacting action scenes did themselves justice. Character design is beautiful in every way possible. The noticeable background in some of the scenes portrays a vivid, limitless sky, which befits the floating island setting. The sound track from the anime is memorable. Although it would've been better to switch around its soundtracks, the synchronization of music with the art worked out efficiently. Both the Openings and Endings are beautifully done by the artist; Yuki Kajiura and the voice acting surprisingly fits the character's traits.
Enjoyment 8
I will admit I enjoyed Sword Art Online a lot despite its flaws. The idea of MMORPG setting has nostalgia. Sword Art Online provides decent amount of entertainment if you watch without expecting a serious story. If you walk in expecting one you'll become too derailed and take everything too literally.
Overall 9
Overall Sword Art Online provides decent amount of entertainment if you can look past its major flaws. It’s one of my top five.
D.G.
