Hey guys! If you're a fan of Sword Art Online (SAO) and own a PlayStation 4, you're probably wondering which game is the best to dive into. With several titles available, it can be a bit overwhelming to choose. Don't worry; I've got you covered. This article will break down the best Sword Art Online games on PS4, helping you decide which one to start your adventure with. We'll look at gameplay, story, and overall experience to give you a clear picture. Whether you're an SAO newbie or a long-time fan, there's something here for everyone. So, grab your virtual sword, and let's get started!

Sword Art Online: Hollow Fragment

Sword Art Online: Hollow Fragment is where it all began on PlayStation platforms. Originally released on the PlayStation Vita, it later made its way to the PS4 as part of Sword Art Online Re: Hollow Fragment. This game offers a unique storyline that diverges from the anime's main plot, giving players a fresh perspective on the SAO universe. You get to explore a new area of Aincrad called the Hollow Area, which is filled with challenging quests and formidable enemies. The gameplay focuses on action RPG elements, with real-time combat that requires strategic thinking and quick reflexes.

One of the standout features of Hollow Fragment is its emphasis on character relationships. You can team up with other characters from the SAO universe, building bonds and strengthening your party through interactions and cooperative battles. This adds a layer of depth to the gameplay, making it more engaging and immersive. However, it's worth noting that the game's localization has been criticized for its awkward translations and occasional grammatical errors. While this can be a bit distracting, it doesn't detract too much from the overall experience. Graphically, Hollow Fragment shows its age, especially when compared to newer SAO titles. But if you can look past the dated visuals, you'll find a rich and rewarding RPG that captures the spirit of Sword Art Online.

For fans who enjoy a blend of exploration, character development, and challenging combat, Sword Art Online: Hollow Fragment is a solid choice. It provides a nostalgic trip back to the early days of SAO gaming, with a unique storyline that sets it apart from other titles in the series. Just be prepared for some quirks in the localization, and you'll have a great time diving into the Hollow Area.

Sword Art Online: Lost Song

Next up, we have Sword Art Online: Lost Song. This game takes a different approach by shifting the setting to ALfheim Online (ALO), the virtual reality MMORPG that Kirito and his friends explore after escaping Aincrad. Lost Song introduces a new storyline that sees Kirito and his companions embarking on a quest to conquer the floating continent of Svart ALfheim. One of the most notable features of Lost Song is its aerial combat. Unlike previous SAO games that primarily focused on ground-based battles, Lost Song allows players to take to the skies and engage in fast-paced, acrobatic fights against airborne enemies. This adds a new dimension to the gameplay, making it feel more dynamic and exciting.

The game also features a robust character customization system, allowing you to create your own avatar and join Kirito's party. You can choose from a variety of races and classes, each with its own unique abilities and playstyles. This adds a layer of replayability to Lost Song, as you can experiment with different character builds and approaches to combat. Graphically, Lost Song is a step up from Hollow Fragment, with more detailed environments and character models. The vibrant colors and fantasy-inspired designs of ALO are brought to life in stunning detail, creating a visually appealing world to explore. However, some players have criticized the game for its repetitive quests and somewhat predictable storyline. While the aerial combat is a fun addition, it can become a bit monotonous after a while.

Despite its flaws, Sword Art Online: Lost Song is a worthwhile entry in the SAO gaming series. Its aerial combat, character customization, and visually appealing world make it a fun and engaging experience for fans of the franchise. If you're looking for a game that offers a fresh take on the SAO formula, Lost Song is definitely worth checking out.

Sword Art Online: Hollow Realization

Sword Art Online: Hollow Realization is often considered one of the best SAO games on the PS4, and for good reason. This title returns to the Aincrad setting, but with a twist. The game takes place in a new VRMMORPG called Sword Art: Origin, which is based on the original Aincrad server. Kirito and his friends are invited to participate in a beta test of the game, but they soon discover that something is amiss. A mysterious NPC named Premiere appears, and she seems to hold the key to unraveling the secrets of Sword Art: Origin. Hollow Realization features a sprawling open world to explore, filled with challenging quests, formidable enemies, and hidden treasures. The combat system is more refined than previous SAO games, with a greater emphasis on party tactics and strategic decision-making. You can issue commands to your party members, coordinate attacks, and chain together devastating combos to defeat your foes.

One of the standout features of Hollow Realization is its engaging storyline. The mystery surrounding Premiere and the secrets of Sword Art: Origin will keep you hooked from beginning to end. The game also delves deeper into the characters' backstories and relationships, adding emotional weight to the narrative. Graphically, Hollow Realization is a significant improvement over its predecessors. The environments are more detailed, the character models are more expressive, and the visual effects are more impressive. The game also runs smoothly on the PS4, with minimal slowdown or performance issues. However, some players have criticized the game for its repetitive side quests and occasional backtracking. While the main storyline is compelling, the side content can feel a bit grindy at times.

Overall, Sword Art Online: Hollow Realization is a must-play for SAO fans on the PS4. Its engaging storyline, refined combat system, and impressive graphics make it one of the best entries in the series. If you're looking for a game that captures the essence of Sword Art Online, Hollow Realization is the perfect choice.

Sword Art Online: Fatal Bullet

Sword Art Online: Fatal Bullet takes a bold step away from the traditional fantasy setting of SAO and plunges players into the world of Gun Gale Online (GGO), a virtual reality MMO focused on shooting and futuristic combat. This game offers a unique storyline that sees you creating your own custom character and becoming the protagonist of the story. You'll team up with Kirito and his friends as you unravel the mysteries of GGO and compete in the Bullet of Bullets tournament. One of the most notable features of Fatal Bullet is its third-person shooter gameplay. Unlike previous SAO games that focused on melee combat, Fatal Bullet puts you behind the sights of a variety of firearms, from pistols and rifles to shotguns and rocket launchers. The combat system is fast-paced and action-packed, with a greater emphasis on aiming and positioning.

The game also features a robust character customization system, allowing you to create a unique avatar with a variety of skills and abilities. You can choose from different classes, each with its own strengths and weaknesses, and customize your weapons and equipment to suit your playstyle. Graphically, Fatal Bullet is a mixed bag. While the character models and environments are well-detailed, the game's overall visual style is somewhat bland and uninspired. The color palette is muted, and the environments can feel repetitive at times. However, the game runs smoothly on the PS4, with minimal slowdown or performance issues. Some players have criticized Fatal Bullet for its convoluted storyline and unlikeable characters. The game's plot can be difficult to follow, and the characters are not as well-developed as in previous SAO games. Additionally, the game's dialogue can be clunky and poorly written.

Despite its flaws, Sword Art Online: Fatal Bullet is a worthwhile entry in the SAO gaming series for fans of third-person shooters. Its unique setting, fast-paced combat, and character customization options make it a fun and engaging experience. If you're looking for a game that offers a different take on the SAO formula, Fatal Bullet is definitely worth checking out.

Sword Art Online: Alicization Lycoris

Finally, we have Sword Art Online: Alicization Lycoris. This game adapts the Alicization arc from the SAO anime and light novels, which is widely considered one of the best and most compelling storylines in the series. Alicization Lycoris sees Kirito waking up in a mysterious virtual world called the Underworld, where he meets a young boy named Eugeo. Together, they embark on a quest to find Alice, a childhood friend who has disappeared. One of the standout features of Alicization Lycoris is its faithful adaptation of the Alicization arc. The game faithfully recreates the events, characters, and locations from the anime and light novels, allowing fans to experience the story in a new and interactive way. The game also delves deeper into the characters' motivations and relationships, adding emotional depth to the narrative.

The combat system in Alicization Lycoris is a blend of action RPG and party-based tactics. You can control Kirito and switch between other party members, issuing commands and coordinating attacks to defeat your foes. The game also features a robust skill system, allowing you to customize your characters' abilities and playstyles. Graphically, Alicization Lycoris is a stunning game. The environments are beautifully rendered, the character models are expressive, and the visual effects are impressive. The game also runs smoothly on the PS4 Pro, with minimal slowdown or performance issues. However, some players have criticized Alicization Lycoris for its lengthy cutscenes and slow pacing. The game's story is heavily dialogue-driven, and there are long stretches of time where you're simply watching characters talk. Additionally, the game's open world can feel empty and lifeless at times.

Despite its flaws, Sword Art Online: Alicization Lycoris is a must-play for fans of the Alicization arc. Its faithful adaptation of the story, engaging combat system, and stunning graphics make it one of the best SAO games on the PS4. If you're looking for a game that captures the emotional depth and epic scope of the Alicization arc, Alicization Lycoris is the perfect choice.

Conclusion

So, there you have it – a breakdown of the best Sword Art Online games on PS4. Each title offers a unique experience, whether it's exploring the Hollow Area in Hollow Fragment, soaring through the skies of ALfheim in Lost Song, unraveling the mysteries of Sword Art: Origin in Hollow Realization, venturing into the world of GGO in Fatal Bullet, or experiencing the epic Alicization arc in Alicization Lycoris. Ultimately, the best SAO game for you will depend on your personal preferences. Do you prefer action RPG combat or third-person shooting? Are you more interested in a compelling storyline or robust character customization? Consider what aspects of the SAO universe appeal to you most, and choose the game that best fits your interests. No matter which title you choose, you're sure to have a great time diving into the world of Sword Art Online on your PS4. Happy gaming, guys!