Table of Contents
Sword Art Online (SAO) is a popular anime and light novel series that has captivated audiences worldwide. With its intricate plotlines and complex characters, understanding the timeline of events can be challenging. This article aims to provide a comprehensive guide to the canon timeline of Sword Art Online, helping both new viewers and long-time fans navigate the series.
Overview of Sword Art Online
Created by Reki Kawahara, Sword Art Online debuted as a light novel series in 2009. It quickly expanded into anime adaptations, manga, and video games. The story primarily follows Kirito, a skilled gamer trapped in a virtual reality MMORPG where dying in the game means dying in real life.
The Canon Timeline
The timeline of Sword Art Online consists of several arcs, each with its own unique setting and storyline. Here’s a breakdown of the major arcs in chronological order.
- 1. Sword Art Online Arc (Aincrad)
- 2. Fairy Dance Arc (Alfheim Online)
- 3. Phantom Bullet Arc (Gun Gale Online)
- 4. Calibur Arc (Alfheim Online)
- 5. Mother’s Rosario Arc (Alfheim Online)
- 6. Ordinal Scale Arc (Augmented Reality)
- 7. Alicization Arc (Underworld)
- 8. Unital Ring Arc (Continuation of Alicization)
1. Sword Art Online Arc (Aincrad)
The first arc introduces players to Aincrad, a floating castle with 100 floors. Kirito, along with other players, must clear each floor to escape. This arc establishes the main characters, including Asuna, and sets the tone for the series.
2. Fairy Dance Arc (Alfheim Online)
Following the events of Aincrad, the Fairy Dance Arc takes place in Alfheim Online. Kirito must rescue Asuna, who is trapped in this new game. This arc explores themes of freedom and the consequences of virtual reality.
3. Phantom Bullet Arc (Gun Gale Online)
The Phantom Bullet Arc shifts the focus to Gun Gale Online, a shooting game where players face a mysterious figure known as Death Gun. Kirito investigates the connection between the game and real-life murders, adding a layer of suspense to the narrative.
4. Calibur Arc (Alfheim Online)
The Calibur Arc features Kirito and his friends embarking on a quest to obtain the legendary sword Excalibur. This light-hearted story showcases the camaraderie among players and highlights the fun aspects of gaming.
5. Mother’s Rosario Arc (Alfheim Online)
In the Mother’s Rosario Arc, the focus shifts to Asuna as she befriends a terminally ill player named Yuuki. This emotional arc explores themes of friendship, loss, and the impact of gaming on real-life relationships.
6. Ordinal Scale Arc (Augmented Reality)
7. Alicization Arc (Underworld)
The Alicization Arc introduces a new virtual world called the Underworld, where Kirito becomes involved in a conflict between humans and artificial beings. This arc delves deep into the philosophy of consciousness and the nature of reality.
8. Unital Ring Arc (Continuation of Alicization)
The Unital Ring Arc continues the story from Alicization, bringing back familiar characters and introducing new challenges. This arc promises to expand the lore of the Sword Art Online universe and further explore the implications of virtual reality.
Viewing Order Recommendation
For newcomers, the recommended viewing order follows the chronological timeline of the arcs:
- Sword Art Online (Aincrad)
- Sword Art Online II (Fairy Dance, Phantom Bullet, Calibur, Mother’s Rosario)
- Sword Art Online: Ordinal Scale
- Sword Art Online: Alicization
- Sword Art Online: Alicization – War of Underworld
- Sword Art Online: Unital Ring (upcoming)
Conclusion
Understanding the Sword Art Online timeline can enhance your viewing experience and appreciation for the series. By following this comprehensive guide, you can navigate through the complex story arcs and enjoy the rich world Reki Kawahara has created. Whether you’re a new viewer or a long-time fan, there’s always something new to discover in the Sword Art Online universe.