Sword Art Online (SAO) is a Japanese light novel series, written by Reki Kawahara and illustrated by Abec. It is set in a fictional virtual reality MMORPG (massively multiplayer online role-playing game) world called Sword Art Online. In the story, players wear a virtual reality helmet called Nerve Gear, which allows them to fully immerse themselves in the virtual game world.
The central plot of Sword Art Online revolves around the protagonist, Kirito, and the other players who become trapped inside the game world. They discover that they are unable to log out and are informed by the game's creator that the only way to escape is to defeat all 100 floors of the game. Additionally, the game presents a real-life threat, as if a player's avatar dies in the game, they also die in reality.
The term "Sword Art Online" refers not only to the series itself but also to the in-game world within the story. It is characterized by its vast and immersive game environment, where players engage in sword fighting battles and complete quests. Throughout the series, Kirito and other characters navigate through various areas of Sword Art Online, meeting friends and adversaries, and ultimately striving to free themselves from the virtual trap.
Sword Art Online has gained significant popularity since its release, leading to adaptations in various media forms, including anime, manga, and video games. Its themes of virtual reality, adventure, and battling against a powerful enemy have captivated audiences worldwide, appealing to both gamers and fans of fantasy fiction.
