The Ultimate Evolution: Unveiling the Mastery of Sword Art Online II's Gun Gale

If fans were not happy with the transition from Sword Art Online to Alfheim Online, they were bound to have an even stronger dislike for Gun Gale Online. However, the unique events that occur in this online shooting game, along with its connection to the original Sword Art Online, prove that GGO is a truly fitting sequel.

Some fans argue that Dot Hack is what Sword Art Online should have been, but the shift to ALO may have changed the setting, character designs, and power systems, it still maintains a fantasy realm with a magical system. Another positive aspect of ALO is that beloved characters from SAO later join Kirito in adventures there as well. In contrast, GGO's first arc only features Kirito from the original SAO squad, and he even takes on the persona of a girl. Additionally, GGO is set in a futuristic environment with modern weapons, which is a complete departure from the fantasy-based RPGs seen in SAO.

Gun Gale Online's Events are Wholly Unique

Kirito's journey in Gun Gale Online is made possible by the series' cyberpunk setting. His ability to adapt to Gun Gale's environment, using a familiar weapon type, goes beyond showcasing his character's versatility. Firstly, he transforms his chosen laser sword from being perceived as useless to becoming one of the best weapons. Secondly, Kirito's inclination towards swords reflects the prevalent theme of how players' true selves are mirrored in their in-game choices and actions. Lastly, it is ironic yet impactful how Kirito embraces a gun to win his final battle, a move that would not have had the same impact in ALO.

Gun Gale serves as an ideal sequel to SAO's storylines involving the Laughing Coffin guild for various reasons. In SAO, members of Laughing Coffin actively sought to kill other players, knowing that it would result in the death of their real bodies as well. In GGO, where actual death is not possible, the surviving members of Laughing Coffin must devise unique methods to create the illusion of killing others in the game. The introduction of this new storyline in Gun Gale highlights the extent to which the guild members were willing to adapt to carry out their desires in a different setting. Furthermore, their adaptability further reinforces the arc's overarching theme that players' behavioral patterns persist across different games, regardless of the game's differences.

Sinon's Trauma Only Works In Gun Gale's Setting

Finally, Sinon's personal odyssey could not be replicated in a fantastical realm like Sword Art Online or Alfheim. Sinon is burdened by the trauma of having to use a firearm to defend herself against an armed robber, and she strives to conquer her deep-seated fear of guns that resurfaces whenever she encounters one or witnesses a hand gesture mimicking a gun. She seeks solace and healing by immersing herself in the virtual world of Gun Gale, where she can engage in simulated gunfights.

In reality, no one utilizes swords, spells, or any other fanciful methods of attack. Therefore, Sinon's therapeutic journey in the game must mirror her real-life triggers. Furthermore, the very same gun that Sinon used in her past also materializes within the game. The continuation of Sinon's tale in Alfheim further justifies the significance of Gun Gale Online, as she, like Kirito, adapts to this fantasy realm by wielding weapons that closely resemble firearms.

Sword Art Online is streaming on Crunchyroll.