Thirteen years after the debut of the first Sword Art Online video game, Sword Art Online: Infinity Moment, Bandai Namco is releasing a new action RPG that will allow players to experience the series' foundational Aincrad arc from its very beginning. Titled Echoes of Aincrad, the game aims to immerse players in the harrowing virtual reality MMORPG that trapped protagonist Kirito and thousands of others.
Producer Yosuke Futami explained that a core design goal for Echoes of Aincrad was to provide an experience where players could start from the first level of Aincrad, an opportunity not previously offered in the franchise's game adaptations. "We really wanted players to experience that one scene in episode one of Sword Art Online, where they all get trapped in that death game," Futami told Kotaku. The developers also sought to make the game accessible to newcomers, allowing them to enjoy the most compelling elements of the Sword Art Online narrative.
The game's opening theme, "Live to Survive" by Aimer, was chosen not only for its thematic resonance with the characters' struggle to survive but also to evoke a sense of nostalgia. Futami noted that the song was intended to carry a similar feeling to the anime's first opening song, "Crossing Field" by LiSA, reinforcing the connection to the series' origins.
A significant departure for Echoes of Aincrad is the ability for players to create and control a custom protagonist rather than playing as Kirito. While Kirito will still be present, the player character will form their own party and embark on a new story within the Aincrad death game. This shift is reflected in the game's title, with "Sword Art Online" now following "Echoes of Aincrad" to emphasize the player's central role in the experience. Futami suggested that this naming convention could be used for future titles exploring other anime arcs if they also move away from centering on Kirito.
The character Iori serves as the main heroine and a supportive companion to the player's custom protagonist, drawing inspiration from Asuna, Kirito's primary love interest in the series. Futami likened Iori's role to Asuna's position by Kirito's side, aiming for a similarly appealing character who stands with the player.
Echoes of Aincrad will also feature the first full English dub in the Sword Art Online game series. Bryce Papenbrook, who has voiced Kirito in the anime since its inception, reprises his role. Papenbrook shared how his personal life experiences, including becoming a father, have influenced his portrayal of Kirito, allowing him to connect more deeply with the character's paternal feelings, particularly towards the AI character Yui. He also discussed how his long-standing relationship with his wife informs his portrayal of Kirito's deep affection for Asuna.
Echoes of Aincrad is scheduled for release on July 10 for PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X|S.