Great news for fans of Sword Art Online Alternative: Gun Gale Online! During the 30th Dengeki Bunko Summer Festival held on July 15, 2023, on ABEMA TV, it was officially announced that the highly anticipated Season 2 of the anime is in the works. This announcement marks a significant milestone as it is part of the Sword Art Online franchise's 10th-anniversary project.
For those unfamiliar with the series, Sword Art Online Alternative: Gun Gale Online is a spin-off based on Keiichi Sigsawa's light novel series. The story is set in the virtual reality massively multiplayer online game (VRMMO) Gun Gale Online, where players can immerse themselves in thrilling battles and adventures. The first season, which aired during the Spring 2018 anime season, consisted of 12 episodes and was well-received by fans and critics alike.
The anime follows the journey of Karen Kohiruimaki, a college student plagued by her complex about her tall stature, which makes it difficult for her to form friendships in the real world. However, everything changes when she enters Gun Gale Online with her perfect "mini" avatar, known as Llenn. Donning a distinctive pink battle suit, Llenn sets out on exhilarating quests in the virtual world.
In the midst of her adventures, Llenn meets a fellow female player named Pitohui, and the two form an unexpected and powerful friendship. Unbeknownst to Llenn, this newfound bond holds the key to her participation in the first-ever Squad Jam, a team-based battle royale event reminiscent of the renowned Bullet of Bullets tournament.
While the specific details regarding the studio and staff working on Season 2 have yet to be revealed, fans can undoubtedly expect another thrilling and action-packed installment that expands upon the already compelling narrative of Gun Gale Online.
The light novel series, published by ASCII Media Works under the supervision of Reki Kawahara (the creator of Sword Art Online), and featuring illustrations by Kouhaku Kuroboshi, has been captivating readers since its inception in 2014. With 13 volumes currently in circulation, the story continues to evolve in exciting ways.
Additionally, manga enthusiasts had the opportunity to explore a visually captivating adaptation of the series through the work of Tadadi Tamori, which was serialized by Dengeki Maoh from 2015 to 2021. The manga spans four volumes and adds a unique visual perspective to the Gun Gale Online world.
English-speaking fans also have the chance to experience the Gun Gale Online saga, as Yen Press is currently serializing the light novel series in English. Their official description promises a brand-new battlefield for readers to immerse themselves in, following Llenn's journey through the virtual realm, her encounters with friends and rivals, and her inevitable involvement in the high-stakes Squad Jam tournament.
As we eagerly await further updates and details about the upcoming season, fans can relive the excitement and intensity of Sword Art Online Alternative: Gun Gale Online by revisiting the previous season or delving into the light novel and manga adaptations. With the promise of a new chapter on the horizon, there's no better time to be a fan of this captivating VRMMO adventure. Stay tuned for more news and updates as the anime project progresses!
