What Order Should I Watch Sword Art Online

So, you're diving into Sword Art Online, huh? Awesome choice! But wait... what order do you even watch it in? Fear not, fellow adventurer, I'm here to guide you.

You'll find a million different opinions online. Chronological? Release? Some weird hybrid? Let's get real. Here's a potentially controversial (but totally correct) take.

The Real Order to Watch SAO

Ready for it? Buckle up. We're going off the beaten path.

Step 1: Season 1

Duh! Start with the OG. Sword Art Online Season 1 is where it all began. Aincrad, Alfheim... you know the drill. Don't overthink it. Just dive in!

Step 2: Extra Edition? Skip It! (For Now)

Okay, hear me out. Extra Edition is a recap movie with some new scenes. But honestly? It's mostly just rehashing stuff you already know. Save it for later if you're really bored.

Step 3: Season 2

Next up, Sword Art Online II! This is where things get interesting. Guns, a new VR world, and more Kirito being... well, Kirito. It builds directly on Season 1 so keep up!

Step 4: Movie Time! (Ordinal Scale)

Stop right there! Before you even THINK about Season 3, watch Ordinal Scale. This movie is actually pretty important. It bridges the gap between Season 2 and Alicization.

Step 5: Alicization (Parts 1 & 2)

Alright, deep breath. Sword Art Online: Alicization is HUGE. Split into two parts, Alicization and Alicization: War of Underworld, this is where the story gets seriously epic. You'll thank me later for watching Ordinal Scale first.

Seriously, don't skip the movie. You'll be lost without it.

Step 6: Season 1... Again?

Okay, this is where things get really weird. Remember how I said to skip Extra Edition? NOW's the time to watch it. Why? Because after the mind-bending events of Alicization, a little recap and fan service might be exactly what you need. Plus, you appreciate it more.

Step 7: Progressive (Movies)

Finally, the Progressive movies. These are a reboot/retelling of the Aincrad arc from Season 1. Aria of a Starless Night and Scherzo of Deep Night. They add more depth and detail. Think of them as a bonus after you've seen the main course.

And don't worry if they don't seem to be in chronological order with the first season. Just enjoy the ride!

Step 8: (Optional) More!

There are other non-canon side stories and games. Feel free to dive in whenever you wish. They will not affect the understanding of the main story.

Why This Order Works (Even If You Disagree)

Look, I know some of you are screaming at your screens right now. "But the chronological order!" Or "Release order is the only way!" I get it. But this way lets you ease in. Starting from the core, most impactful story beats, then enriching your experience later.

Plus, Extra Edition just feels... better after Alicization. Trust me on this one. You've been through so much together, Kirito and you. You earned that beach episode. And that's it, enjoy your journey into the world of Sword Art Online!