Sword Art Online (SAO) has been one of the most influential and divisive anime franchises in the modern era. Based on Reki Kawahara’s light novels, SAO has delivered thrilling action, compelling world-building, and emotional story arcs across multiple seasons and spin-offs. Below is a ranking of all major SAO anime series based on storytelling, animation quality, character development, and overall impact.
8. Sword Art Online: Extra Edition
Essentially a recap episode with minor new content, Sword Art Online: Extra Edition offers little in terms of storytelling and is mostly skippable unless you’re a completionist. I know many people don’t like filler episodes and things like that. However, I am a completionist when it comes to watching anime so I recommend watching it.
7. Sword Art Online: Ordinal Scale
An original movie with stunning animation and a fresh augmented reality concept. SAO: Ordinal Scale bridges the gap between SAO II and Alicization. While it is enjoyable, its standalone story lacks the depth and long-term impact of other arcs.
6. Sword Art Online Progressive: Aria of Starless Night & Scherzo of Deep Night
The Progressive movies revisit Aincrad which we know is where it all started. You get to experience it with a deeper focus on Asuna’s perspective. Thanks to this it provides more character depth and expanded world-building. While the movies have excellent animation and improved pacing compared to the original series, their limited-release format prevents them from ranking higher.
5. Sword Art Online 2
Featuring the Gun Gale Online Arc and Mother’s Rosario Arc, SAO II is a mixed bag for some. The first arc introduces Sinon and brings a refreshing change of pace with gun-based combat. Then you have the Mother’s Rosario Arc which delivers an emotional and heartfelt story centered around Asuna and Yuuki. However, the pacing and uneven storytelling in the middle of it lower its ranking.
4. Sword Art Online Alternative: Gun Gale Online
A spin-off focusing on new characters and a completely new fresh perspective. SAO: Gun Gale Online follows Llenn, a skilled player in a battle royale-style VR game. It has great pacing, intense action, and strong character writing. This entry surprised many people by proving SAO might be able to thrive without Kirito.
3. Sword Art Online (Season 1)
This is the original season that started it all off. Sword Art Online introduced audiences to the virtual reality MMO concept and the Aincrad arc. Which remains one of the best in the series. I remember Kirito for a long time trying to hide his level from others. So my friends and I as we watched over and over tried to count how many times the anime showed his levels, and how much higher he was than others. With that said, the second half (Fairy Dance Arc) is often criticized for its weaker antagonists and controversial character moments, preventing it from taking the top spot.
2. Sword Art Online: Alicization
The first part of the Alicization arc introduces the complex world of the Underworld and the AI-driven story that expands SAO’s universe. Kirito’s journey alongside Eugeo and Alice is deeply engaging, setting up a mature and intricate narrative that revitalizes the franchise.
1. Sword Art Online: Alicization – War of the Underworld
Widely considered the peak of the SAO franchise, Alicization: War of Underworld presents some of the best character development. It also has the best action sequences in the entire series. It has everything you could want such as high stakes, emotional depth, and an intense final battle. With that said this arc cements itself as the best SAO adaptation to date.
Final Thoughts
Sword Art Online has had its ups and downs, but its influence on the anime industry is undeniable. While some arcs shine brighter than others, each adaptation has contributed to the franchise’s ongoing popularity. Whether you prefer the high-stakes drama of Alicization or the nostalgia of Aincrad, SAO continues to evolve, solidifying its place as a major force in anime. At this point, it remains my current favorite anime as well. Let me know what you think of the SAO series rankings!
