FAQ
Common questions about Echoes of Aincrad — is it good, how it ties to the anime, co-op and multiplayer, beta-phase length, item carryover, save issues and weapon types.
Is Echoes of Aincrad good? Is it worth it?
Reception on the beta phase is mixed: praise for the SAO atmosphere and Aincrad setting, criticism for linear pacing and the default controls/camera. It's a pre-launch slice — judge it for the vibe, but combat depth and content expand in the full July 2026 release.
How does it relate to the anime?
It returns to the start of the original Sword Art Online — the death-game premise on the early floors of Aincrad. You play your own created character rather than Kirito, but the canon cast (Kirito, Asuna, Argo) appears alongside the original character Iori.
Is there co-op or multiplayer?
The beta phase is single-player. Multiplayer has not been confirmed for the current build — check the official channels for the full release's online features.
How long is the beta phase?
Roughly an hour or two for the main quest — the prologue through the Floor 1 boss, Illfang the Kobold Lord — plus side missions and free grinding afterward. It covers Floors 1 & 2.
Do beta-phase items carry into the full game?
No. Beta-phase progress and items don't transfer. Pre-order grants a separate Prototype Weapon Pack in the full game.
Why won't the game save / leave the tutorial?
A known issue in the current build can block saving during the opening tutorial. Push through to the first proper checkpoint past the tutorial corridor before expecting a save slot.
How many weapon types and weapon classes are there?
Six: One-Handed Sword, Two-Handed Sword, Rapier, Dagger, Mace and Axe. Each has its own sword skills.