Sword Art Online The Movie: Ordinal Scale is an original story from the light novel and anime series. Instead of focusing on full-dive VR, instead it features a new device called the Augma, an augmented reality device. The game Ordinal Scale is released for it in which players gather in the real world to fight monsters. The technology is useful but for gaming purposes, isn't as cool as VR since it is based on the real world and uses your physical body. It also doesn't fully explain how the players are able to feel the impact force or be flung away by the monsters (or simply take their device off when it gets too intense). The pacing is the movie's weakest aspect since it feels too long at 2 hours. There's a lot of exposition here, firstly with diving into Kirito and Asuna's promises and memories from their time in Sword Art Online, then later on when Kirito investigates the odd happenings that seems to be related to Ordinal Scale, and then finally the explanations of the villains' motives (which is extremely selfish and very difficult to get behind them. not to mention the main one being a weak villain who uses cheats). That being said, the music, being new, remixes and songs, is one of the best aspects and serves to enhance a lot of the scenes effectively. The climax battle, while a bit cheesy in how it summons all the characters, is also a visual stunner and a lot of fun to watch. There is a nice post-credits scene to tie the timeline of these events in the next arc (and the third season). Of course, if you are a fan of Sword Art Online, then Ordinal Scale is a must watch. It is a solid movie and enjoyable despite being bogged down in places.
