It happened during this Anime Expo 2024: during its slot at the event, Aniplex released a new and surprising trailer for “Sword Art Online Alternative: Gun Gale Online II“. As part of the reveal, it was confirmed that singer ReoNa will perform the opening theme for the new installment, titled “GG“. This spin-off of Sword Art Online, which established its own identity and was so well received by the community, will return to Japanese television in October this year!!
“Sword Art Online Alternative Gun Gale Online” is a spin-off light novel series of “Sword Art Online“, written by Keiichi Sigsawa and illustrated by Kouhaku Kuroboshi. ASCII Media Works has been publishing the series since December 2014, and it currently consists of 13 volumes. Additionally, four collected volumes were published in the magazine Dengeki Maoh by Tadadi Tamori.
Production & Voices
Additionally, the return of several key members of the production team who worked on the first season has also been confirmed. Studio 3HZ (Dimension W, Princess Principal, Sora no Method) is behind this adaptation of “Alternative: Gun Gale Online“, with Masayuki Sakoi (Sora no Method, Princess Resurrection, Strawberry Panic!) directing. Yousuke Furoda (My Hero Academia, Gundam Build Fighters, Mobile Suit Gundam 00) is in charge of script composition while Yoshio Kosakai (Chaos;HEAd, Needless) is responsible for animation direction, as well as adapting Kouhaku Kuroboshi‘s original designs for anime.
Regarding the Japanese voice casting, it will again feature the main cast from its first season:
- Tomori Kusunoki will voice Llenn
- Yoko Hikasa as Pitohui
- Chinatsu Akasaki as Fukaziroh
- Kazuyuki Okitsu as M
Synopsis of “SAO Alternative: Gun Gale Online”
“Sword Art Online Alternative: Gun Gale Online” is a spin-off from the “Sword Art Online” universe, centered on the virtual world of “Gun Gale Online” (“GGO“). In this setting, the plot follows Karen Kohiruimaki, a university student who, due to her unusually tall stature, feels insecure and disconnected from her peers in the real world. Seeking escapism, Karen immerses herself in “GGO” and adopts the avatar of Llenn, a notably short character dressed entirely in pink. Inside the game, Llenn becomes a formidable player and earns the nickname “Pink Demon” due to her exceptional PvP combat skills.
Throughout the series, the story explores themes of identity and self-acceptance as Karen/Llenn faces challenges in both the virtual and real worlds. In “Gun Gale Online“, she meets and forms a bond with Pitohui, a charismatic and enigmatic player who eventually plays a crucial role in the plot. Together, they participate in the “Squad Jam“, a battle royale tournament where Llenn and Pitohui test their skills and tactics against other players.
This spin-off also delves into the social dynamics within the game and how these virtual environments can influence and reflect the insecurities and aspirations of players in real life. Through her interactions and experiences in “GGO“, Karen begins to confront her insecurities about her height and learns to value her own strengths and abilities, which ultimately leads to significant character development both inside and outside the game.
The table is set, and for all of us who enjoy virtual immersion in the world of “GGO“, as well as those who remember the adventures and misadventures experienced by Kirito and his friends in Aincrad from “SAO“, these are tremendous news! Before the year is over, we will be competing again for the top spots in “Gun Gale Online“. But, while we wait, why not take a moment to scroll through the comments and share your opinion about these franchises? As always, we’ll be reading! 😉
Images Source: Reddit
