Random Curiosity

Alright, I’m going in.

This week I’ve got a special treat for you all, the very first Stilts Out Loud: Special Report! While normally these posts are more of general editorials, which draw examples from multiple shows (and even from other genres) to talk about some theme or storytelling tactic, today we’re going to take a look at one anime in particular. This one will be about none other than the most watched show of this season, Sword Art Online.

「紅の殺意」 (Aka no Satsui)
“Crimson Killing Intent”

Let the duel begin!

「青眼の悪魔」 (Aome no Akuma)
“Blue-Eyed Demon”

I would hate to take part in a SAO boss battle.

「黒と白の剣舞」 (Kuro to Shiro no Kenbu)
“The Sword Dance of White and Black”

We’re kicking off the main storyline with a bang this week! Lots of pretty cool action and some adorable Asuna!

「心の温度」 (Kokoro no Ondo)
“The Temperature of the Heart”

Not all MMOs are focused entirely around combat. In fact, the majority usually have some form of crafting or profession system for those who prefer to play a supporting role away from the battlefield or as a reprieve from the constant battles. SAO is no exception to this.

「幻の復讐者」 (Maboroshi no Fukushuusha)
“The Phantom Avenger”

One of the things I really like about SAO is the systems. As a story built around an MMORPG, this is arguably one of the most important aspects – how various systems are introduced and explained.

「圏内事件」 (Kennai Jiken)
“A Crime Within the Walls”

If there’s one thing you don’t see very often in an MMO, it’s a murder mystery.

「黒の剣士」 (Kuro no Kenshi)
“The Black Swordsman”

So how about some loli fanservice?

「赤鼻のトナカイ」 (Akahana no Tonakai)
“The Red-Nosed Reindeer”

Rudolph, the red-nosed reindeer had a very shiny nose. Many things shone in this episode. Kirito’s nose was not one.

「ビーター」 (Bītā)
“Beater”

The spirit of co-operation is one of those glorious things that make an MMO such an incredible experience. Watching people come together, uniting under solid leadership, standing back to back, helping each other when they fall… it’s really something beautiful to behold.

「剣の世界」 (Ken no Sekai)
“The World of Swords”

Life within a fantasy video game world. I imagine it would have its ups and downs. I guess the threat of death is a pretty big downer though…