Sword Art Online Developer Plans Mature Evolution for Franchise

For over a decade, the Sword Art Online franchise has captivated audiences with its unique blend of anime and video games. The latest entries, Sword Art Online Alternative: Gun Gale Online II and Sword Art Online: Fractured Daydream, were released on October 4th, continuing the legacy of this beloved series. As the franchise evolves, the developers are considering taking the series in a more mature direction, aiming to cater to an older audience while maintaining the essence that fans have come to love.

In a recent discussion, Yosuke Futami, the producer of the Sword Art Online game series, shared insights about the future of the franchise. He stated, "Sword Art Online itself, the anime and the game, will keep going into the future." This commitment to growth suggests that the developers are not only focused on expanding the storyline but also on enhancing the gaming experience. Futami expressed a desire to elevate the series, possibly by developing for higher-performing consoles, which could lead to improved graphics and gameplay.

One intriguing concept that the team is exploring is the idea of a game mechanic where players face real-life consequences for in-game deaths. Futami mentioned, "We maybe also want to try to do something around the concept of SAO that if you die in game, you die in real life." However, he clarified that they are unlikely to implement a permadeath mechanic, as it could frustrate current fans. He humorously noted that players might "break their keyboard or something" if such a feature were introduced.

Futami further elaborated on the intention to create a more mature experience for adult fans of the series. He stated, "We want to try to have more for those SAO fans who are adults and experience an SAO which is more mature." This shift in focus could lead to deeper narratives and more complex character development, appealing to an audience that has grown alongside the franchise.

While the developers are considering various directions, they have ruled out creating a game similar to the challenging Souls-like genre or an MMORPG due to the complexities involved in development. Futami humorously remarked that in Japan, it is said to take "70 years to make" an MMORPG. He emphasized that any future MMORPG would only be pursued if they have a strong concept and the capability to execute it properly.

Despite not being an MMORPG, Sword Art Online: Fractured Daydream incorporates elements reminiscent of MMORPGs, such as 20-person dungeons and raid bosses. This design choice allows players to experience the thrill of teamwork and strategy, complete with unique loot that adds excitement to the gameplay. The game is also designed to be accessible, allowing newcomers to enjoy the experience without needing extensive knowledge of previous titles.

Additionally, the developers are challenging themselves by implementing cross-play features, ensuring that friends can play together regardless of the platform. This move is likely to enhance the community aspect of the game, making it more enjoyable for players.

As for the iconic characters Kirito and Asuna, Futami made it clear that their presence is essential to the franchise. He likened the idea of an SAO game without them to "having a Dragon Ball without Son Goku," highlighting their significance in the series.

The future of Sword Art Online looks promising as the developers aim to create a more mature and engaging experience for fans. With new gameplay mechanics and a focus on character development, the franchise is set to evolve while staying true to its roots. As the gaming landscape continues to change, it will be exciting to see how Sword Art Online adapts and grows, ensuring that both new and long-time fans can enjoy the journey ahead.