SWORD ART ONLINE Fractured Daydream is a multiplayer adventure game experience set in the universe of the hit sci-fi anime series, Sword Art Online (SAO). Offering an all-new storyline, players in this massive online co-op game can play as their favorite character from the series. More importantly, they can work with up to 20 players from all around the world, particularly in the game’s Raid system. 

With a visual quality comparable to games like Jump Force and gameplay like a large-scale multiplayer Dynasty Warriors 9, SWORD ART ONLINE Fractured Daydream is a definite treat for fans of anime and adventure games. 

Correct the timeline with your party 

SWORD ART ONLINE Fractured Daydream comes with an original story. The VR world of Alfheim Online, where the original series was set, now has the Galaxia System. This lets players revisit their past. However, in true SAO fashion, this also spirals out of control and throws players into different timelines. To save the world, Kirito and Asuna must find and work with friends and even foes to restore order. 

The characters correspond to certain character archetypes. For example, Kirito is a well-rounded Fighter character, you have Agil for absorbing damage as the Tank, and Sinon for long-range damage dealing as the Ranger. The assignment of characters in your parties adds a strategic aspect, as everyone has specific roles to play in the massive Raids, with up to 20 players working together in cross-platform games. 

Despite its massive set designs and high-quality graphics, the co-op emphasis means you’ll need a steady internet connection. Also, while the selection of the characters offers some good range, it presents multiple learning curves. Players need to adapt or be forced to focus on a main character. This challenging aspect of the game can be resolved, depending on how its matchmaking servers operate. 

Use powerful combos for combat 

The game adopts a class-based system for its characters and supports cross-play across platforms, allowing for cooperative gameplay and more. This setup ensures that large groups of players face meaningful challenges, as well as learning each battle and adjusting their strategies accordingly. What sets the raids apart is their dynamic, open-ended nature—things can change mid-raid, keeping players on their toes and making each raid run unique. This evolving structure is also an effective way to introduce fresh content to ongoing fights. 

Throughout the game, players can engage in Boss Raids and other challenging encounters that add variety and depth to the experience. The combat system encourages mixing combos, combining Normal and Strong attacks. Each character is equipped with three special moves and an Ultimate skill that grants temporary invincibility during its use. Another core mechanic is Switch Chains, which are triggered in boss battles in the game. 

Players can coordinate with their teammates to launch synchronized attacks, and when the entire party participates successfully, the resulting damage output is significant. The game also features the Synchro Counter technique, where players can step into a newly spawned circle to nullify an incoming boss special attack. Additionally, some characters possess unique actions like Hover and Aim, further distinguishing them. On the customization front, all characters can change their appearance with various costumes and weapon skins. However, some of the missions, particularly side quests, can feel repetitive.  

A SAO game for the ages 

For long-time fans of the SAO universe, SWORD ART ONLINE Fractured Daydream is a must-try game. It offers a fresh narrative and a refined combat system within a visually stunning world. The Galaxia System's introduction in Alfheim Online provides players with a unique journey through various timelines, demanding collaboration and strategic thinking. The diverse character archetypes offer both variety and complexity, requiring adaptability for players.