Echoes Of Aincrad invites adventurers into the dynamic and vibrant world of Sword Art Online, filled with challenges and unforgettable encounters. For the first time in the franchise, which has always put players in the role of established characters, the new game embraces the meta behind the IP, where players enter a virtual world to experience a life-or-death adventure themselves.

In Echoes Of Aincrad, the protagonist will be what players design through extensive avatar customization and embark on a journey where they will explore diverse cities and beautiful environments, from serene plains to perilous dungeons filled with secrets, and face monsters and bosses that will test their skills and resolve until the very end.

Echoes Of Aincrad features fast-paced RPG action with real-time combat, where players will be able to adapt and upgrade their equipment, weapons, and attributes, and select special skills to match their preferred playstyle as they level up and take on ever-greater challenges. They will not journey alone, as their victories in combat rely on their chosen NPC partner, each with different skills and abilities that can be customized. As the bond with their partner deepens, players will unlock new skills and more powerful abilities.

This is not just a game. It’s a battle for survival.

Take up your weapon. Shape your legend. Conquer Aincrad. RISK YOUR REALITY!

Bandai Namco Entertainment revealed a new trailer highlighting game play and in-game systems in Echoes of Aincrad.

As a player trapped in a VRMMORPG where death in the game means death in the real world, survival is the number one priority. The new systems trailer showcases character abilities, weapon variety, the partner system, and more, showing the tools available to help players survive the dangers that await them in the floating castle of Aincrad. Using everything available to them will be the ultimate key for players to defy death and escape virtual reality.

For the first time in the franchise, Echoes of Aincrad puts players in the role of an original character they create rather than the series’ main characters, letting the protagonist what each player designs through extensive avatar customization. The game features fast-paced RPG action with real-time combat, where players will be able to adapt and upgrade their equipment, weapons, and attributes, and select special skills to match their preferred playstyle as they level up and take on ever-greater challenges. They will not journey alone, as their victories in combat rely on their chosen companion, each with different skills and abilities that can be customized. As their experience grows, players will unlock new skills and more powerful abilities. Along their journey, they will explore diverse cities and beautiful environments, from serene plains to perilous dungeons filled with secrets, and face monsters and bosses that will test their skills and resolve until the very end.

Key Features:

• FORGE YOUR HERO: Design your own avatar and craft your path. Customize your appearance, gear, and combat style through variety of weapons and skills. Build synergy with your AI partner, adapt their tactics, and their equipment to create a team dynamic that turns every battle into a triumph.
• DEFINE YOUR PROGRESSION: Level up, master powerful Sword Skills, and tailor your stats to match your unique playstyle. Whether you favor speed, strength, or endurance, your growth reflects your choices.
• EXPLORE A THRIVING WORLD: Wander across diverse cities and journey through stunning environments, from serene plains to perilous dungeons filled with secrets. Complete quests, hunt rare treasures, and challenge formidable foes in real-time action combat. The map expands as your story unfolds, revealing new areas and dangers at every turn.

Echoes Of Aincrad is coming to PS5, Xbox Series X|S, PC (Steam) on July 10, 2026.