What is Sword Art Online about?

Sword Art Online follows the journey of Kirito, a skilled gamer who finds himself trapped in the titular VRMMORPG called Sword Art Online. The series is set in a near-future where players use Nerve Gear, a full-dive virtual reality helmet that stimulates the user's five senses, allowing for an immersive gaming experience. However, the thrill of exploration turns dire when the players learn they cannot log out, and death in the game results in real-world fatality. Tasked with defeating the final boss on the 100th floor of the game’s massive tower to regain their freedom, the players embark on an uncertain and perilous journey. Through the multiple arcs of the series, Kirito and his allies face not only the in-game challenges but also explore deeper themes of identity, community, and what it means to push the limits of technology. The narrative evolves as the players encounter different virtual realms and confront various enemies, with the emotional stakes and gaming mechanics contributing to a complex world-building that resonates with viewers beyond a typical gaming adventure.

The first episode of Sword Art Online aired on July 08, 2012 and the most recent episode to air was on September 20, 2020.