This first scenario was created by Violet Evergarden writer Kana Akatsuki.
New key art has been released for the free updates that follow the first: Tiese, Selka, and Silica.
Sword Art Online: Alicization Lycoris is receiving a free update series “Ancient Apostle,” as well as the game’s first paid expansion “Myosotis” and the return of the Sword Art Online game series’ original heroines.
The first “Ancient Apostle” update will arrive this winter, with updates two, three, and four following in sequence. Following the fourth update, additional update series are also planned.
KEY ART
SINON AND TIESE
KEY ART
SELKA AND SILICA
The game's theme song is titled, Scar/let by ReoNa.
Sword Art Online: Alicization Lycoris was originally to launch in Japan on May 21, 2020 and the West on May 22, 2020.
Due to COVID-19, the game was postponed and has a new launch date of July 9 for PS4 and Xbox One, and July 10 for PC via Steam in Japan.
The game launched in the US and Europe on July 10.
The game follows the story of the Sword Art Online: Alicization arc of the anime. The game features an original storyline with new game-exclusive character Medina Orthinanos, who is voiced by Miho Okasaki.
Bandai Namco Entertainment America describes the game:
Play as series protagonist, Kirito, and become immersed in the “Underworld,” a mysterious virtual world set in the anime series' Alicization arc. Featuring epic battles, stunning JRPG visuals, and an expansive world to explore; Kirito's journey through the latest Sword Art Online game is ready to begin.
Following the events of the Sword Art Online Alicization anime series, Sword Art Online Alicization Lycoris finds Kirito in a mysterious but familiar virtual world, “Underworld,” where A.I.s behave like humans. As players take control of Kirito, they will relive heart-pounding scenes from the series through intense combat. Players will also encounter fan favorite characters including Eugeo, Alice, Administrator, and many more. A wide world awaits Kirito and his friends in this exciting adaptation to the Sword Art Online: Alicization series.