Bandai Namco has released a new story trailer for Echoes of Aincrad, the upcoming action RPG set in the Sword Art Online universe. The game was announced last month and is set to launch on July 10 for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC, with preorders available now.
For those who missed the initial reveal, Echoes of Aincrad takes a different approach from previous Sword Art Online games. Instead of playing as Kirito or other established characters, players create their own avatar and forge their own path through the floating castle of Aincrad. The premise stays true to the series, though. Players are trapped in a VRMMORPG where death in the game means death in the real world, and they must fight their way to freedom alongside the franchise’s iconic cast. Not surprisingly, the new story trailer confirms that Kirito will make an appearance in the game.
The game features real-time combat where players choose from a variety of weapons and Sword Skills, tailoring their stats and playstyle as they level up. A companion system plays a central role, with each AI partner offering different skills and abilities that can be customized and grown stronger over time. The world itself expands as you progress, with new areas unlocking throughout the story, ranging from open plains to dungeons filled with bosses designed to test your build.
Bandai Namco also noted that the Sword Art Online video game franchise has surpassed 10 million units sold, so there’s clearly still plenty of interest in the series. Three editions are available for preorder: Standard ($69.99), Deluxe (which includes an expansion DLC, a Starter Pack, and early access to a Death Game Mode), and Ultimate (which adds bonus app content and exclusive cosmetics). There’s also a physical Aincrad Edition that comes with a beanie, wall scroll, sticker sheet, and patches. All preorders include a Proto-Elucidator Series weapon pack.
