Sword Art Online: Fractured Daydream is the latest installment in the long-running Sword Art Online (SAO) video game franchise, developed by Dimps and published by Bandai Namco Entertainment. Known for its action-packed, multiplayer experiences set in virtual reality worlds, this title promises to take players on a journey where cooperation, strategic gameplay, and immersive storytelling come together.

In this review, I’ll explore the many facets of Fractured Daydream that grabbed my attention, from its gripping storyline to its exciting co-op and online features. Is this game a worthy addition to the SAO universe? Let’s find out!

Once Upon A Time

The premise of Fractured Daydream is a fresh take on the Sword Art Online universe. In this game, Kirito and his friends log into a new virtual world only to find it has collided with a mysterious, alternate reality. Their memories are fractured, leading to a thrilling narrative as they unite to unravel the cause behind this strange phenomenon. Characters from various arcs of the Sword Art Online anime and original work come together in an epic battle against time and powerful foes.

What sets this game apart is its entirely original storyline, crafted specifically for the game. I appreciated this as a newcomer to the series. I was curious how much I would struggle understanding the premise. There was definitely some homework involved on my part to understand the initial concepts and premise. Once in the game world and immersed in the story, I felt like it did a decent job making sure I was aware of how things were transpiring. I feel like this definitely gives long-time fans a unique experience that ties together elements of the anime with an exciting new plot as well as tries its best to give newcomers, like me, an opportunity to jump into the series.

Exploration and Free Roam

If you prefer a more relaxed experience, Free Roam offers the freedom to explore vast maps with up to 20 other players. You can battle enemies, discover hidden treasure chests, and team up with others to complete optional objectives. Solo players, like myself can join in on the fun by encountering random players on the map or forming their own party. This was one of the more fun experiences for me. I really felt the MMO style at play here.

Boss Battles

The boss battles in Fractured Daydream are nothing short of spectacular. From massive beasts to cunning foes, the creature designs are intimidating and incredible at the same time. Each boss fight I tried felt unique with a varied set of attacks and maneuvers.

Visual and Audio Presentation

Graphically, Fractured Daydream showcases a beautiful and stunning environment. With vibrant, anime-inspired visuals, it felt like Fractured Daydream was the anime come to life. The audio design complements the visuals with an exciting soundtrack that ramped up especially during boss battles.

Multiplayer Experience

The multiplayer experience is where Fractured Daydream shines most. You can join up with friends for raids or exploring the map together. Paired with the cross-platform feature, Fractured Daydream really tailors itself to a cooperative gaming experience from the ground up. Whether you’re playing on Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, or PC, you can join your friends from across platforms in online co-op and boss battles. I definitely wish I had more folks to play with as I was mostly experiencing the game offline. All of the online and cooperative modes offered in Fractured Daydream feel like what it was designed for.

Final Verdict

Sword Art Online: Fractured Daydream is a must-play for fans of the series and if you have been curious to jump in, I might even recommend it for newcomers barring some initial homework to make sure you are not lost. Its original storyline, innovative gameplay mechanics, and seamless cross-platform multiplayer make it a standout title. While there are some minor drawbacks, they don’t detract from the overall experience. Fractured Daydream shines most in the multiplayer modes so bring a friend or two along if you can. Overall, Sword Art Online: Fractured Daydream is a cool entry in the SAO gaming franchise.

Kurosh’s Verdict: 7.5/10

Have you played Sword Art Online: Fractured Daydream? Are you a fan of the series? Let us know your thoughts!

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