Review: #454
Title: Sword Art Online 2: Aincrad
Series: Sword Art Online - 2nd volume
Author: Reki Kawahara
Read Before: no
Comments: The first novel had a very closed ending, the game was cleared, Kirito had won, how else can you continue this? In this second volume, it is a collection of four short stories that expands on Kirito’s adventures in Sword Art Online. It takes place throughout different times in the two years of the in-world time, some taking place concurrently with events in the first volume, others before. All four stories are strong but you find yourself getting more addicted, wanting to read just one more page, as you get from story to story. The most emotional one has to be Red Nose Reindeer, which finally dives into Kirito’s initial experience in joining a guild and the reason why he’s a solo player. It was sad and had significance in understanding Kirito. The Black Swordsman shows what a hero and nice guy Kirito can be, as well just showing off his power. Warmth of the Heart feels like a classic epic fairy tale in which Kirito faces off against a dragon. Morning Dew Girl explores more during the time when Kirito and Asuna married and spent time together, with a twist, them having a daughter. This volume does a fantastic job of expanding upon Kirito’s character and while it adds a ton of new characters, most of them are charming. It is a bit predictable that effectively all of the new female characters fall for Kirito. Either way, a great follow up to the first volume that expands the mechanics of the Sword Art Online game, making for a very interesting read.
Rating: 7/10