The Sword Art Online (SAO) video games generally exist within their own alternative timeline and are not considered direct canon to the original light novel and anime series, though they often form their own internal game canon with some exceptions.
The canonicity of the Sword Art Online (SAO) video games is a nuanced topic, best understood by differentiating between their relationship to the primary source material (light novels and anime) and their internal continuity within the game series itself.
SAO Games and the Original Source Material
Most SAO video games are developed with original storylines that diverge from the established light novel and anime narratives. While they often begin within the familiar settings and character dynamics from the main series, they quickly introduce unique plotlines, characters, and events that do not align with the ongoing story of Kirito, Asuna, and their friends as depicted in the original works.
- Alternative Timelines: Think of the games as exploring "what-if" scenarios or parallel universes within the SAO multiverse. They build upon the core concepts of virtual reality worlds but create their own independent continuity.
- Original Characters and Arcs: Many games feature exclusive characters and story arcs that are not present in the light novels or anime, further solidifying their status as distinct narratives.
Therefore, if "canon" refers to the official continuity of the light novels and anime, then the SAO games are generally not canon to that primary storyline.
Internal Canonicity within the SAO Game Series
While not canon to the light novels, the SAO video games often build upon each other, creating a loose, interconnected "game canon." This means that events and characters introduced in one game might carry over or be referenced in subsequent titles within the game series. This gives players a sense of progression and continuity within the gaming universe.
However, it's important to note that not every game released under the SAO banner is considered part of this overarching game narrative. For example:
- Crossover Titles: Certain crossover games, such as Accel World vs. Sword Art Online: Millennium Twilight, are explicitly developed as non-canonical entries to the core SAO video game narratives. While these games offer exciting interactions between characters from different series (like Sword Art Online and Accel World, both originating as light novel series featuring virtual reality universes), their events do not typically integrate into the main continuity of the SAO game series.
This distinction highlights that while the SAO games largely form their own narrative progression, specific spin-offs or collaborative titles operate outside this established game canon.
Why the Distinction Matters
Understanding the canonicity helps fans manage expectations and appreciate the different forms of storytelling across the SAO franchise:
- For Light Novel/Anime Fans: The games offer new adventures without altering the main story you follow in the books or shows.
- For Gamers: The games provide expansive new worlds and stories to explore, often with unique gameplay mechanics and character development not seen in other media.
Summary of SAO Game Canonicity
| Aspect of Canonicity | Status | Explanation |
|---|---|---|
| Primary (Light Novel/Anime) Canon | No, generally not canon | The games often feature entirely new plotlines and characters that diverge from the main story, providing alternative timelines or possibilities. They are distinct stories. |
| Internal Game Canon | Yes, typically canon | Many SAO games share a connected storyline, referencing prior events and forming their own internal progression. |
| Specific Crossover Games | No, generally not canon | Titles like Accel World vs. Sword Art Online: Millennium Twilight are explicitly not canon to the main SAO video game narratives, serving as standalone crossover experiences. |
In conclusion, while the SAO games offer rich, immersive experiences and often develop their own interconnected narratives, they primarily exist as separate, non-canonical adventures when compared to the original Sword Art Online light novels and anime.
