Reader’s Question:
I recently finished watching all of the SAO anime, and now I want to read the novels as well. However, there are so many different ones that I don’t know which one to start with. Which one should I read?
Diving into the World of Sword Art Online Novels: Where
to Start?
Hey fellow anime lovers! So, you’ve just wrapped up the entire Sword Art Online (SAO) anime series and are now itching to dive into the novels? Trust me, that’s an excellent choice! The novels add layers of depth and detail that you just can’t get from the anime alone. But wait, hold on—there are a ton of books out there. Where do you even begin? I’ve been there, and let me tell you, it can be a bit overwhelming. But don’t worry, I’m here to help you navigate through this literary labyrinth!
Starting from the Beginning
If you’re looking to follow the story in chronological order, the best place to start is with the first volume of the main series, simply titled “Sword Art Online.” This is where it all began, and it sets the stage for everything that follows. You’ll want to familiarize yourself with Kirito and Asuna’s journey through Aincrad, the floating castle where they first became trapped. Trust me; the novels go into much more detail about their experiences and struggles than the anime does. I remember the first time I read it; I was completely hooked!
Now, here’s a little tidbit: the anime adaptation makes some changes to the story, so if you’re curious about what was altered or if you just want more context, diving into the first volume is a must. You’ll find yourself getting more attached to the characters and understanding their motivations better. Plus, there’s something special about reading the source material that just hits differently.
Exploring the Progressive Series
Then we have the “Sword Art Online: Progressive” series. Think of these novels as a reimagining of the Aincrad arc but with a fresh, detailed perspective. It’s where you get to explore the world in-depth, uncovering the nitty-gritty of the game mechanics and how the characters evolve. For me, it was like rediscovering my favorite show all over again. You see Kirito and Asuna tackle challenges and face enemies with a new level of intensity and strategy that the anime glosses over.
If you’re like me and adore character development, then the Progressive series is your jam. You get to see how their relationship grows and deepens in a way that feels organic. I personally found myself grinning like an idiot during some of their cute moments, and then feeling my heart race during the fight scenes. It’s a rollercoaster, and you’re going to love it!
The Side Stories and Beyond
Now, let’s talk about the side stories and anthologies. There’s a collection of short stories that provide extra context or explore different aspects of the SAO universe, like “Sword Art Online: Alternative Gun Gale Online.” These tales might not follow our beloved Kirito and Asuna but are still worth the read if you want to explore the wider universe. They can be hit or miss depending on your interests but hey, sometimes a little change can be refreshing, right?
And if you’re looking for something that feels like an extension of the anime, you can jump into the later volumes—starting from volume 19. This is where the story picks up after the events of the anime. You’ll find yourself reunited with familiar characters and introduced to new adversaries and challenges. It’s a bit like reuniting with old friends and being welcomed back into the fold. I’ve had some late nights just binge-reading these, losing track of time as the pages flipped!
Connecting with the Expanded Universe
Don’t forget about “Accel World,” which is set 20 years after the SAO events. It’s an interesting spin-off, and if you’re a fan of SAO, you’ll likely get a kick out of seeing how the world has evolved. Plus, some characters from SAO pop up, making it feel like a neat little crossover. It’s like that moment in a comic book when your favorite heroes collide; it just adds that extra layer of excitement!
Final Thoughts
In the end, the journey through the SAO novels is a personal one. Start with the main series for the core experience, leap into Progressive if you want a deeper dive, and don’t hesitate to explore the side stories if you’re feeling adventurous. Just like any good adventure, take your time to savor it. You’ll find yourself laughing out loud at the jokes, holding your breath during intense battles, and tearing up during emotional moments. I know I did!
So, grab a cozy blanket and a cup of your favorite drink, and prepare yourself for the epic journey that awaits. You won’t regret it! Happy reading, and may your virtual sword never break!
