The next RPG from Bandai Namco is a new installment in the Sword Art Online series titled “Sword Art Online: Echoes of Aincrad.” It is scheduled for release in July. According to the Japanese trailer, the release date is July 9, while the English trailer available on PlayStation’s YouTube channel indicates a release date of July 10.
Bandai Namco previously announced that they would unveil their next RPG on March 5, and it turned out to be the next evolution of the popular game line. The most recent Sword Art Online game was Fractured Daydream, which was released in 2024.
Character Creation is the Center of Echoes of Aincrad
For the first time in Sword Art Online history, the game’s main character will be a creation of an doing something individual player.
According to an IGN preview article, Yosuke Futami, series producer, said that one reason for the change is that the new game takes place in an original story and does not require prior knowledge of the manga or anime. Also, the hope is that players will be more invested in the game if they can create their own character.
The game is set in an MMO, but it’s single-player. Players set up a team of AI allies and set out on their journey. Futami said that the hope was that the in-game world would feel like a dungeon.
Insider Gaming will continue to provide the latest information on this game as more becomes available.
How do you feel about Sword Art Online? Would you check out this new game even if you’re not a fan of the series? Sound off in our official Discord server. Also, don’t forget to sign up for our weekly newsletter.
