Bandai Namco Entertainment Europe has officially announced the development of Echoes of Aincrad, a new action-RPG set in the Sword Art Online universe. The title will allow players to create a personalized avatar using a dedicated editor to explore the floating castle of Aincrad. The gameplay involves exploring diverse environments, from plains to dungeons, with progression based on completing quests and upgrading attributes, weapons, and equipment.
The combat system focuses on real-time battles that require parrying, dodging, and precise attacks. Players can be paired with an AI partner, allowing them to define an offensive or support strategy; strengthening the bond with their partner will unlock specific abilities.
Echoes of Aincrad will be available starting July 10, 2026, on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC via Steam. Pre-orders are now open and include a bonus weapons pack. The game will be released in three different versions:
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Standard: Includes the base game.
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Deluxe: Includes the base game, an expansion pack with downloadable content, a Starter Pack with consumables, and early access to the Todesspiel mode.
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Ultimate: Includes Deluxe content, the bonus app “Unanswered//butterfly” with special anime, artbook, and digital soundtrack, plus an exclusive armor pack.