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If you’re watching SAO, you must have been excited by the typical fighting sequences, the virtual reality environments, and the complex characters. Though SAO remains one of the favorite shows within this anime section many others depict the virtual world, fantasy, and fantastic adventures. So here’s a list of 15 similar anime that you are sure to enjoy if you’re a fan of Sword Art Online with each anime presenting its take on these interesting concepts.
1. Log Horizon: A Strategic Take on Virtual Worlds
Log Horizon is often compared to Sword Art Online for its premise of characters trapped in a virtual MMORPG. However, Log Horizon stands apart by focusing on strategy, world-building, and social dynamics. It’s ideal for those who appreciate the complexity of navigating a new reality and the interpersonal relationships that arise in a virtual world.
2. No Game No Life: A Battle of Wits and Games
Gaming is central to the story of No Game No Life providing an entising twist that everything in the new world is defined by games. In this world, there are two main characters which are Sora and Shiro, who are siblings who have been transported into this world and have to defeat their opponents through games. With bright colors, intense movement, elaborate plans, and battles – it will be suitable for fans of the gaming part of the Sword Art Online series.
3. Accel World: Virtual Reality Meets Self-Discovery
Created by the same author as Sword Art Online, Accel World explores a futuristic virtual reality game where players enhance their abilities in the "Brain Burst" system. Â As the protagonist, Haruyuki strives to grow stronger both in and outside the game, Accel World delves into themes of self-esteem, power, and personal growth, making it a natural follow-up for SAO fans.
4. Re: Zero - Starting Life in Another World: A Darker Isekai Adventure
Though not based on virtual reality, Re: Although identified with a different story, Zero also has the common thread with the rest of the shows, of being taken to a parallel universe. The main character Subaru Natsuki regains life upon death to find he has a cheat of rewinding time with his death. Altogether, similar to SAO, the importance of everything at stake turns very high, and the emotional struggle of surviving in the new world is also exposed significantly well.
5. The Rising of the Shield Hero: Betrayal, Redemption, and Battles
The Rising of the Shield Hero follows Naofumi, who is summoned to a fantasy world as one of the four legendary heroes. Betrayed early on, he must rise to protect the kingdom using only his shield. With its combination of action, character growth, and emotional depth. It mirrors SAO’s exploration of overcoming adversity and personal trials in a new world.
6. Overlord: Power and Morality in a Virtual World
In Overlord, the protagonist becomes the most powerful being in a virtual MMORPG and explores the world as an undead overlord. Rather than trying to escape, Ainz focuses on conquering and ruling the world. Overlord is a darker take on virtual reality, offering philosophical musings on power, and control. And morality, making it a great watch for those who enjoy SAO’s intense moments and world-building.
7. Sword Art Online: Alternative - Gun Gale Online: A Spin-Off with a New Focus
For viewers of the Sword Art Online anime series, it is another saliva with a different approach: a new heroine Karen starts playing the shooting game Gun Gale Online. This series is full of fights and inner turmoil within a virtual environment. In case you are a fan of SAO’s battle scenes and parallel universe story arcs – this is a great spin-off for you.
Conclusion
I tried to pick anime series that have similarities with SAO for one reason or another: from virtual reality environments to battle and character development. An innovative fantasy world with elaborated characters, plot, and plenty of battles – all these shows will give you an exciting continuation of the SAO universe capturing your heart.